THE BAD PLUS FAREWELL TOUR

SAT SEP 26, 2026 AT 8PM

"The chemistry between the foursome sounds incredible, burning brightly with endeavor and fierce originality that doesn’t just take this band into a new era, but actually launches them head-first from an exploding cannon." — UK Vibe

Bold, restless, and endlessly inventive, The Bad Plus continues to redefine what a modern jazz ensemble can be. For more than two decades, the band has made its own rules—earning critical acclaim and a devoted global following with a sound that defies categorization and live performances fueled by risk, immediacy, and imagination.

Now fully realized as a boundary-defying, piano-less quartet, founding members Reid Anderson (bass) and Dave King (drums) are joined by guitarist Ben Monder and saxophonist Chris Speed. Four singular voices converge into one unmistakable sound, opening expansive new creative territory while deepening the band’s core identity.

Their acclaimed 2024 album Complex Emotions marked a turning point, announcing this lineup’s arrival with music that is immersive, emotionally fearless, and richly textured. Knotty grooves, ambient atmospheres, explosive improvisation, and vivid song forms coexist in thrilling balance.

Rooted in a democratic spirit and the guiding belief that “the song is number one,” The Bad Plus continues to bridge genres and techniques, exploring the infinite possibilities of exceptional musicians working in perfect sync—pushing boundaries while sounding unmistakably like themselves.
 

Presented by
Irvine Barclay Theatre
Media Sponsor
KJazz
Expected Run Time
75-90 minutes without intermission
Doors open
1 Hour before
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