Complex Emotions

In 2022, the Bad Plus revealed a new, pianoless lineup on their second homonymous album. Joining bassist composer Reid Anderson and drummer Dave King were saxophonist Chris Speed and guitarist Ben Monder. The record was speculative, compelling, and just a tad uneven; the quartet never tried to hide that they were still learning to create as a unit. Subsequently, 18 months of touring tightened them up and expanded their musical palette. The recorded evidence of their newfound maturity is revealed abundantly on Complex Emotions from Detroits Mack Avenue, the bands second to feature this lineup. Together theyve birthed a 21st century approach to electric jazz that skirts the lines between it, indie, and prog rock, with an atmospheric ambience, sophisticated interplay, and canny improvisation. Furthermore, Anderson and King have added synthesizers to their instrument rosters. While the original duo composed the lions share of the music, the newcomers contribute a tune apiece. Opener "Grid/Ocean" commences as a somber yet lyrical processional with warm, watery electric guitar from Monder as Speed carries the melody. Anderson and King not only supply elastic, ever-changing rhythms, they also inject atmosphere into the mix. Toward the center, Monder solos slowly through a fog of reverb. When he finishes, the melody shifts along with King and Anderson, who layer airy synths to their increasingly propulsive time-keeping, laying the ground for Speeds gorgeous solo as the swirling textures result in a crescendo. "French Horns," despite being knotty, is introduced by the saxophonist and guitarist atop the rhythm sections aggressive accompaniment with an irresistible hook in the final section. Kings "Casa Ben" is introduced by a rich, woody bassline as Speed and Monder flow in behind, offering melody and chorus even as they extrapolate on the harmony. For decades, Speed has been a dedicated vanguardist, but youd never know it here. His inside game is as savvy as his avant one. Monder, one of the most diverse guitarists on the scene, recently released the triple-length Planetarium after being inspired by experiences from his work with David Bowie on Blackstar, as well as Maria Schneiders Data Lords. His dark psychedelic technique is displayed amply on his composition and set closer "Li Po." Andersons "Carrier" sounds like three overlapping compositions in separate modes played simultaneously. Its somewhat languid, yet its quite busy on account of Kings breaks and accents. Speeds "Cupcakes One" is the closest thing to conventional fusion, but remains outside it thanks to Kings junglist drumming. Anderson pushes his bandmates hard, shifting dynamics and textures while keeping a fluid backbeat. Monders hyperdriven solo bridges the euphoric lyricism of Pat Metheny with the grit and grease of John Scofield. Kings "Tyrones Flamingo" messes about with syncopated rhythms that crisscross tango, Latin jazz, rock, and post-bop, while his bandmates offer knotty yet pillowy interplay with drums central in the mix. Complex Emotions is a fitting title for TBPs 16th album; its provocative, emotionally expressionistic, and, at times, musically profound. ~ Thom Jurek