"Award Winning Drummer" is a captivating jazz album by the legendary Max Roach, released in 1959 under the Time Records label. This album is a testament to Roach's mastery of the drums and his innovative approach to jazz, blending elements of hard bop, bebop, and even hints of free jazz. Recorded in January 1959 at the prestigious Bell Sounds Studio in New York City, the album features Roach leading his late '50s band through a series of stirring and dynamic tracks.
The album kicks off with "Tuba de Nod," a unique piece that showcases the tuba in a jazz setting, followed by the upbeat "Milano" and the intricate "Variations on the Scene." Other standout tracks include "Pies of Quincy," a nod to the legendary Quincy Jones, and "Old Folks," a classic jazz standard given a fresh twist by Roach's ensemble. The album also features "Sadiga" and "Gandolfo's Bounce," both of which highlight the band's improvisational skills and Roach's dynamic drumming.
"Sadiga" is a great example of the band's ability to blend different jazz styles, while "Gandolfo's Bounce" showcases the band's tight ensemble playing. The album's diverse tracklist and high-energy performances make it a standout release in Max Roach's discography and a great addition to any jazz fan's collection. The album's original 1959 master tapes were used for a high-quality vinyl reissue, ensuring that the music sounds as vibrant and dynamic as it did when it was first recorded.
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