Drummer/Composer Max Roach: "The Freedom Now Suite"

Drummer Max Roach was a Jazz great and one of the pioneers of Modern Jazz. His history is easily available on the internet but tonight's Jazz Feature is a tribute to Black History Month. This album was issued on a small independent label was a musical turning point for Mr. Roach. It reflected his musical philosophy that his music be socially relevant and express his concern for equality and civil rights. It featured Max's Ensemble augmented with some percussionists and with Max's then girlfriend, singer Abbey Lincoln doing the vocals. Mr. Roach wrote all the music and the words were written by poet/singer/ philosopher, Oscar Brown Jr. Guest artist, tenor saxophone great Coleman Hawkins makes an emotional appearance on the first track called "Driva Man" . The rest follows. The Freedom Now Suite occupies an important place in the music of Max Roach and of Black History. Experience it now!