“finely orchestrated, catchy original tunes, and a knack for radically reconstituted pop covers.” – The New York Times
The Bad Plus are the ultimate originals. A democratic unit with a clear vision and a refusal to conform to convention. For the past two decades, they have played with spirit and adventure and have made their own rules. Moreover, they do so with a bold sense of creativity and intent. Avoiding easy categorization, The Bad Plus has won critical acclaim and a legion of fans worldwide. Further, their unique sound and flair for live performance make them a must-see ensemble.
Now in their twenty-sixth year, The Bad Plus continues to push boundaries. Here, founding members Reid Anderson (bass) and Dave King (drums) embark on a new piano-less incarnation of the band. Also, Ben Monder (guitar) and Chris Speed (tenor saxophone) join the group, instigating a new wave of excitement and anticipation. These new voices are re-energizing their sound and inspiration. The Bad Plus have constantly searched to bridge genres and techniques. Additionally, they explore the infinite possibilities of exceptional musicians working in perfect sync.
The Bad Plus’s sixteenth release, 2024’s Complex Emotions strikes out in stunning new directions. Here, it often sounds radically different than anything the band has done before, while still maintaining the band’s vital and unmistakable identity. Credit that to all four members’ instinctual attraction to song form, the compelling immediacy of their collective improvisations. Also, yes, their willingness to drill down into the full gamut of emotional complexity. The band can veer into so much unexplored terrain yet still emerge sounding like The Bad Plus on Complex Emotions. Thus, this is a testament to their finely crafted identity and insistence on constantly evolving.
This is The Bad Plus in their most creative and expressive form. This is The Bad Plus now.
Recommended for fans of Brad Mehldau, Joshua Redman, Bill Frisell and Kurt Rosenwinkel.
