The Bad Plus announced via its Facebook page this morning that founding member Ethan Iverson will be leaving the group at the end of this year, to be replaced by pianist Orrin Evans. JazzTimes will have more on this story as it develops. Here is the complete message:
A message from The Bad Plus to our fans and followers: We will soon begin an exciting new chapter in our life as a band. As of January 1, 2018, The Bad Plus will consist of founding members Reid Anderson (bass) and Dave King (drums) and new member Orrin Evans (piano). Original pianist Ethan Iverson will finish out the 2017 touring schedule in support of the album It’s Hard, culminating in a New Year’s Eve gig at the Village Vanguard in New York City.
The Bad Plus have always been a band in the truest sense—a group of passionate collaborators with no single “leader.” That spirit will continue in full-force as we welcome Orrin into the group. This is not an act of replacement; no tryouts were held. We’ve known and respected Orrin as a musician and as a person for longer than The Bad Plus has existed. His heart and his talents are simply a perfect match to continue our trajectory.
A brand-new album featuring the refreshed lineup will be recorded this fall for release in 2018, with a supporting tour cycle to follow. The Bad Plus’ extensive songbook will continue to be represented at shows. We remain grateful to our supporters and invite you along with new listeners to be an integral part of our evolution and the exciting music it’s sure to deliver.
