"On The Chicago Scene" is a captivating jazz album by the legendary Max Roach, recorded in Chicago on June 3, 1958. This album is a testament to Roach's prowess as a drummer and bandleader, featuring a stellar lineup of Chicago-based musicians. The album showcases Roach's versatility and innovation, blending hard bop, bebop, and early free jazz elements into a cohesive and exciting whole.
The album opens with "Shirley," a mono mix that sets the tone for the rest of the record, followed by "My Old Flame," another mono mix that highlights the band's tight harmonies and Roach's impeccable timing. "Sporty" and "Stella By Starlight" are standout tracks that demonstrate the band's ability to swing and improvise, while "Stompin' At The Savoy" is a high-energy number that showcases Roach's drumming skills. The album concludes with "Memo: To Maurice," another mono mix that serves as a fitting finale to this exceptional recording.
"On The Chicago Scene" features a piano-less quintet, a format that Roach popularized and that allows for greater interplay between the horns and rhythm section. The band features George Coleman on tenor saxophone, a musician who Roach discovered and mentored. Coleman's playing is a highlight of the album, showcasing his distinctive tone and phrasing.
This album is a snapshot of a pivotal moment in jazz history, capturing the energy and innovation of the Chicago jazz scene in the late 1950s. It's a record that showcases Max Roach's genius as a drummer and bandleader, and his ability to bring out the best in his sidemen. Whether you're a jazz aficionado or a newcomer to the genre, "On The Chicago Scene" is an album that demands your attention.
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