Activate Infinity

Released in 2019, Activate Infinity marks the second and final studio outing for the 'Bad Plus 2.0' lineup featuring pianist Orrin Evans. Following the departure of founding member Ethan Iverson, the band used this record to solidify a more fluid, blues-aware identity. Recorded for the Edition label, the album consists entirely of original compositions, moving away from the cover-heavy reputation of their early years. The tracks are evenly distributed among the members, showcasing Reid Anderson’s melodic sensibilities, Dave King’s rhythmic eccentricities, and Evans’ ability to bridge the gap between the two. Critics noted that while the 'rigid riffs' of the band's DNA remained, Evans introduced a more expansive, improvisational feel. The album is often cited as a peak of their middle-period maturity, balancing the 'jazz-rock' energy of their youth with a more refined, sophisticated compositional approach before their eventual transition to a quartet.