This show is eligible for a Jazz Membership discount. Find out more about PIJF Membership! 

Please note this artist has two shows available - an early set (commences at 6pm) and a late set (commences at 8:30pm).

Direct from New York and hailed as one of the most vital voices in contemporary jazz, the Bad Plus bring their fearless, genre-bending sound to Perth International Jazz Festival. Renowned for explosive live performances, razor-sharp interplay and boundary-pushing improvisation, the band continues to redefine what a modern jazz trio can be. 

With acclaim from SPIN Magazine, JazzTimes, PopMatters and NPR’s All Songs Considered, The Bad Plus have built a global reputation for transforming jazz with bold originality, emotional intensity and rock-infused energy. Their latest music has been described as “a quartet for the adventurous ear” and “vital new music”, blending intricate compositions with moments of pure sonic power. 

Expect an electrifying night of adventurous contemporary jazz from one of the world’s most influential and unpredictable ensembles. This is essential viewing for jazz lovers, curious music fans and anyone wanting to experience a band that truly plays without limits. 

Perth - don't miss this final chance to see The Bad Plus live, with 2026 marking the band's farewell year after 26 groundbreaking years.

The Bad Plus are: 
Reid Anderson – bass 
Dave King – drums 
Ben Monder – guitar 
Chris Speed - tenor saxophone 

The JAZZIZ Podcast #4: DAVE KING AND REID ANDERSON (THE BAD PLUS) 
"the band’s objective of challenging conventions and pushing their unique approach to jazz in boundary-breaking new directions remains unaltered. Their music… testifies to their passion, drive and intent."  
- Matt Micucci, JAZZIZ 

JazzTimes: The Bad Plus Is A Quartet, For Now - cover story by David Fricke  
"Welcome to the invigorating contradiction of the Bad Plus, one of the most enduring and acclaimed working bands in jazz, reborn for the second time in four years with an unexpected shift in instrumentation and a firm declaration of creative ownership."  
- David Fricke, JazzTimes 

Please note that minors are permitted at the Liberty Theatre with a legal guardian until 10:00pm.

Please note this artist has two shows available - an early set (commences at 6pm) and a late set (commences at 8:30pm). 
Each performance will be approximately 75 minutes in length.

Join the Club or become a Jazz Messenger!

Are you a lover of jazz? Have you come to our festivals before and want to experience more? By joining the Jazz Club, or becoming a Jazz Messenger, you reap the rewards AND get that fuzzy feeling of helping a worthy not-for-profit festival. Amongst many benefits, you also receive 15% off tickets to select jazz festival gigs plus other great benefits! Please visit this webpage to become a member!

Club Sessions with Jon Hunt's Blue Devils

Keep the music going at our Club Sessions! Simply present a ticket* from any 2026 Perth International Jazz Festival event and enjoy FREE entry to the sessions at the Liberty Theatre from 9pm on 28, 29 and 30 October. Featuring the swinging sounds, all the way from Melbourne, of Jon Hunt's Blue Devils, it's the perfect place to unwind, connect, and soak up more festival vibes late into the night.

*Valid with any purchased Perth International Jazz Festival ticket. Excludes free event tickets.

Check out  the rest of our program!

Perth International Jazz Festival Program