Badbadnotgood Live in Singapore

For younger jazz fans, BadBadNotGood are a reference point on a map that keeps on expanding. Indeed, modern jazz acts often need to have crossover DNA in order to appeal, and this group combines pure musicianship with a hip hop mindset when it comes to tackling production and arranging. The proof of their success in their list of collaborations, which features some of the biggest names in soul and hip hop: Tyler, The Creator, Daniel Caesar, Kendrick Lamar and Mick Jenkins to name just a few. 

Founded by the trio Chester Hansen on bass, Matthew Tavares on keyboard and Alexander Sowinski on drums, here they are joined by regular contributing saxophonist Leland Whitty, who takes the lead on a few tracks. Against the impressive Singapore skyline, and with evening drawing in, they showcase their talents on a bill full of other dynamic and up-and-coming acts (Hiatus Kaiyote being just one). 

This 2016 performance came just before the band’s international star grew with the release of their genre-bending album, IV. Here, they perform tracks from that album, including the remarkable “Confessions,” which was written by Matthew Tavares, like many of the other tracks on the album. Tavares’ departure from the group changed their character and this performance is special for marking one of the last times we see the original cast in full swing.