Review: Complex Emotions, the 16th album from The Bad Plus, confirms the band's endless creative energy and evolution. Featuring the talents of guitarist Ben Monder and saxophonist Chris Speed, the album is a bold leap forward, beginning with Reid Anderson's 'Grid/Ocean'ia shape-shifting opener that morphs between turbulence and calm. The track clears the way for the exhilarating 'French Horns', where Monder's structured yet frenzied solo captures the band's fearless spirit. With standout contributions like Speed's vibrant 'Cupcakes One' and Anderson's blistering 'Deep Water Sharks', the album straddles the boundaries of jazz and rock, tapping into an electrifying synergy reminiscent of guitar icons like Jeff Beck. Quiet moments like 'Carrier', 'Casa Ben' and 'Tyrone's Flamingos' offer dreamy, introspective counterpoints, showing King's percussion and Speed's airy lyricism. The Bad Plus, with Monder and Speed joining founding members Anderson and King, continue to defy genre labels, blending rock, jazz and ambient textures. From blistering intensity to melodic subtlety, Complex Emotions encapsulates the band's drive to innovate and redefine.
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