The Bad Plus @ The Village Vanguard, 1/23 - 1/28

Nearly four years ago, three Midwesterners—a pianist, a drummer and a bassist—rocked The Village Vanguard with a set that resulted in a recording contract with Columbia. Their debut, These Are The Vistas, appeared shortly thereafter. With re-arrangements of classic hits including Nirvana’s “Smells Like Teen Spirit” and Blondie’s “Heart of Glass,” The Bad Plus are known to leave the scent of rock, while their rhythms are consistent with the flavor of post-bop.

Their show at the Blue Note several months ago had the audience captivated: you just simply didn’t know which guy to watch since Iverson, King and Anderson were all getting far too ill. Whether it be their colorful display of call and response, improvisation or the surprise in hearing a familiar bassline from an 80’s pop song, it’s clear that they thrive in a live setting. Now, having produced two more albums since their debut and having gone on worldwide tours, The Bad Plus is bound to deliver on this six-day homecoming stand.

MY MORNING JACKET w/ The Slip @ Roseland – Thursday 11/30

For those of you unaware of the phenomenon known as My Morning Jacket, read on. Formed in Louisville, KY, the five-piece headed by frontman Jim James concocts a uniquely haunting and dreamy blend of americana harmonies rooted in the classic country and western style. Their sound, however, is embellished by the liberal use of reverb and distortion on guitars and vocals resulting in an often watery and spacey feeling for the listener. With four excellent albums and counting to their credit, MMJ is currently touring behind the latest release of a live album/DVD entitled Okonokos. Not to be missed is one of Jim James’ favorite underground bands, The Slip, warming the crowd for MMJ.


RIYL: Mercury Rev, Neil Young, Galaxie 500, Flaming Lips, Black-Eyed Snakes