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The Bad Plus :: 09.09.04 :: Wilma Theater :: Missoula, MT
The Bad Plus by James Diers |
The Bad Plus paid an overdue visit to Missoula, Montana, bringing with them a host of jazz-based tunes and off-the-wall jams.
The Bad Plus, a hardworking Minnesota-cum-Manhattan jazz trio, consists of Reid Anderson on upright bass, Ethan Iverson on piano, and David King on drums. Their music is a collage of traditional jazz and rock that builds layers of diverse beats and melodies. Their pure love of making music is exemplified in their attempt to push past boundaries, becoming explorers and inventors of new musical genres.
The Bad Plus was set in motion when Anderson and King met at age 14. Throughout the '80s the duo, like most fledgling musicians, played for free in eateries around the Midwest. But it wasn't until Iverson joined the group that they were able to create a sound unlike any jazz bands before them. Their first record was released in 2001, and in 2002, after a New York Village Vanguard performance, they were signed with Columbia Records.
Reid Anderson by Yves Beauvais |
Within the group, pianist Ethan Iverson is the traditionalist. He's devoted to the harmonies and melodies of jazz, acting as a stepping-stone for the band while Anderson and King use their rock influence to add dimension. David King is by far one of the most talented drummers on the music scene today. Not only does he play like he just pounded 50 Red Bulls, his creative use of additional toys and percussive treats adds to his unique and powerful take on the drums. As for bassist Reid Anderson, it takes mighty skill and a fine-tuned ear to be able to meld together Iverson's beautiful, light melodies with King's thundering beats, and he did so in stride.
The Bad Plus' exploratory style was evident in each song performed. Perhaps they see themselves as a work in progress, ever-changing and revamping their sound. The trio relies heavily on the energy created and amassed within the band to bring forth new facets of music. Covering tunes Black Sabbath's "Iron Man" and the Pixies' "Velouria," they introduced a classy take on these classics proving yet again that their unique style has found a way to access the mainstream music scene.
This band is as talented as they are professional. From cover songs to originals, their music has a hypnotic quality that encircles the mind, making it perfect for late night road trips where it's you, the road, and The Bad Plus.
Tanya Seledee
JamBase | Missoula
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