The Bad Plus

I caught The Bad Plus last night in Albany, at WAMC's Linda Norris Auditorium.  It's taken me a while to warm up to the band, but I definitely now consider myself a fan, and live is where this trio of musicians really shine.  The group played quite a bit of new material (or at least tunes I didn't recognize), along with selections from their latest release, "Prog."  It all sounded great.  The precision The Bad Plus is capable of live is at times awe-inspiring.  I'm especially impressed by drummer David King, who's not only got chops galore but is so much fun to watch on the bandstand.  Wide grin plastered across his face, the man just looks like he's having a blast, and his energy is infectious.  Actually, the same could be said for the entire band, and the reaction they received from the audience was enthusiastic to say the least.  I understand the mixed reception The Bad Plus had received from some quarters of the jazz fanbase (while at the same time attracting a wide following outside of the usual jazz cognoscenti).  Theirs is a distinctive and particularly modern take on the jazz piano trio format, and it simply may not be for everyone. As mentioned above, even I was a bit skeptical at first.  But even if you've already decided you don't care for their particular sound and approach, I highly recommend catching the group live if at all possible.  They just might win you over.

Also, a quick reminder that jazz guitar legend Pat Martino brings his quartet to the Corning Museum Of Glass tomorrow night at 8pm.  WSKG's Ken Campbell and myself will be in atttendance, so feel free to say hello if you're so inclined.