“These Are The Vistas” is the title of the major label debut release from post modern jazz trio The Bad Plus. Having one small label release under its belt, this highly touted jazz group landed a deal with Columbia Records after being heard at New York City’s Village Vanguard.
Hailing from Minnesota and Wisconsin, The Bad Plus is composed of Reid Anderson (bass), Ethan Iverson (piano), and David King (drums). This three-piece outfit displays a wide variety of rhythms, off-time measures, and loads of melodic twists and turns that will often dazzle the listener.
With no vocals, The Bad Plus performs intricate numbers that will most likely impress jazz enthusiasts and musicians alike. As far as the average listener goes, that will be left to be determined. Some of the music here gets pretty out there at times and can be difficult to listen to. But like many things, it is an acquired taste and takes a little getting used to.
The songs on “These Are The Vistas” include several original compositions and a few covers or, as the band likes to call them, “deconstructions.” One look at the their song lineup will reveal Nirvana’s “Smells Like Teen Spirit” and Blondie’s “Heart of Glass.”
“Teen Spirit” is easily recognized almost as if it were a cheesy lounge club version that turns into a fury of sounds. “Heart of Glass” is not as easily recognizable until the latter part when the band really puts a catchy original spin on it. Another cover, “Flim,” is a stand-out track that is truly a joy to hear.
The original compositions on the compact disc have plenty to offer as well. “Everywhere You Turn” and “Silence is the Question” are songs more akin to traditional jazz compositions. Many of these songs have beautiful dancing piano solos backed by smooth jazz style backgrounds. The upbeat song “Boo-Wah” is, as the band describes on the liner notes, “Hectic, Humorous, Heroic, and Harrowing.”
The CD as a whole is beautifully recorded and crafted by two time Grammy winner Tchad Blake, and its quieter moments are nothing short of spectacular.
This CD is not without its faults. The music becomes loud and a bit too much to handle at times. Frequently there is so much going on that it is just too much for the average listener to absorb. The Bad Plus states on this record that there are no edits or overdubs, which is very noteworthy because it often sounds as if there are accompanying musicians. The piano player must have an extra set of hands to pull off some of what he does. All three musicians showcase their talents and influences, impressive as they are.
The bottom line is, when The Bad Plus sticks to a more traditional and lighter approach, most people will definitely enjoy “These Are the Vistas.” When they get far out and crazy, only the true jazz buffs and hipsters will appreciate and get a handle on it, while others may be annoyed.
The Bad Plus is currently playing dates in the New York City area, followed by several gigs across seas in the UK, Europe, and even Japan. Visit their Website for additional information at http://www.thebadplus.com.