Though reflecting on the wide-ranging, cascading emotions and endless complications created by the pandemic, saxophonist Jared Sims somehow manages to find an optimistic voice that weaves its way through the narrative of "Against All Odds," his 10th solo recording. Guitarist Steve Fell, bassist Keala Kaumeheiwa, and drummer Luther Gray have been in Sims's musical life for years, the shared experiences adding easily accessed emotional depth to his stories. "Angst" explores the dread of seclusion. The title track is about Sims's father surviving after 3 months on a ventilator, while "Dear Gaia" reflects on the Earth goddess through his wife's, Amy M. Alvarez's, poetry. "Against All Odds" reveals an honest recollection of truth while remembering to celebrate all that is and will be great in our lives. "...a real find. One of the most exciting saxophonists and band leaders I have heard in a long time." - Music Republic Magazine