The Bad Plus bassist on how he was influenced by Charlie Haden, John Paul Jones and Geddy Lee

Exclusive video interview with FBPO’s Jon Liebman

By David Sands
December 17, 2018

Bassist Reid Anderson is one-third of the boundary-breakining jazz trio The Bad Plus, which proudly touts itself as the “loudest piano trio ever.” Rounded out by pianist Orrin Evans and drummer Dave King, the leaderless avant-garde ensemble has been shaking up critics and audiences alike since they arrived on the scene at the tail end of the 20th Century. The Bad Plus is currently touring in support of their latest album, Never Stop II.

Beyond that, Anderson has also headed up several of his own quartets, fronted his own rock band, the Sun and played with the avant big band Orange Then Blue.

FBPO’s Jon Liebman jumped on the opportunity to speak with Anderson during a recent The Bad Plus performance at The Music Hall in Detroit. They had a lively conversation that covered his musical journey from garage rock, to classical and jazz, why he’s satisfied with his vintage Juzek bass and what he’s got coming down the creative pipeline.

Watch our interview with Reid!