On March 19, 2019, The Bad Plus—pianist Orrin Evans, bassist Reid Anderson, and drummer Dave King—delivered a compelling performance at the Village Vanguard. This engagement marked a significant chapter in the trio's evolution, following Evans' integration into the group in 2018, replacing founding pianist Ethan Iverson. Their collaboration had already yielded the album Never Stop II in January 2018, featuring all original compositions by the band members. (en.wikipedia.org)
The setlist at the Vanguard likely showcased selections from Never Stop II, highlighting the trio's seamless adaptation to Evans' distinctive style. Evans' approach brought a fresh dynamic to the ensemble, enriching their improvisational interplay and compositional depth. While specific reviews of this particular performance are scarce, the band's earlier shows in 2019, such as the February 9 concert at the Kimmel Center in Philadelphia, received positive feedback. Critics noted the trio's controlled improvisation and cohesive sound, with drummer Dave King described as the driving force behind their performance. (echoes.org)
This period was pivotal for The Bad Plus, as they navigated the transition with Evans and prepared for the release of their next album, Activate Infinity, recorded in May 2019 and released in October 2019. (en.wikipedia.org) Their performance at the Village Vanguard not only underscored the trio's resilience and adaptability but also set the stage for the innovative directions they would explore in the years to come.
