The Bad Plus live in Hamburg

Experience The Bad Plus live on July 11th

The Bad Plus will perform at Elbjazz in Hamburg, Germany on July 11, 2026. The Bad Plus is a jazz trio known for its unconventional approach to the genre, blending elements of post-bop improvisation with influences from rock, pop, and avant-garde music. Formed in 1990, the group initially gained recognition for their deconstructed interpretations of popular songs by artists like Nirvana and Blondie alongside original compositions. Their instrumentation consists of piano, bass, and drums, and they are characterized by energetic performances and a distinctive harmonic language.

Elbjazz is an annual open-air jazz festival held in Hamburg’s HafenCity district. Established in 2004, it takes place against the backdrop of the Elbe Philharmonic Hall and utilizes various stages throughout the area. The festival distinguishes itself by presenting a diverse program encompassing both internationally renowned artists and emerging talents across a broad spectrum of jazz styles – including contemporary jazz, fusion, Latin jazz, and more experimental approaches. Elbjazz is known for its free admission policy to many of its performances, fostering accessibility to a wide audience and contributing to Hamburg’s vibrant cultural scene. It typically attracts tens of thousands of visitors annually.