Pure Pleasure CJS 9002

Max Roach: We Insist!

Article-No.: pp9002

Format: 1LP 180g 33rpm / standard sleeve

Release date: 24.04.2006

Manufacturer: Pure Pleasure

Original label: Candid

Genre: Jazz

This is a classic. At a time when the civil rights movement was starting to heat up, drummer Max Roach performed and recorded a seven-part suite dealing with black history (particularly slavery) and racism. "Driva' Man" has a powerful statement by veteran tenor Coleman Hawkins and there is valuable solo space elsewhere for trumpeter Booker Little and trombonist Julian Priester, but it is the overall performance of Abbey Lincoln that is most notable. Formerly a nightclub singer, Lincoln really came into her own under Roach's tutelage and she is a strong force throughout this intense set. On "Tryptich: Prayer/Protest/Peace," Lincoln is heard in duets with the drummer and her wrenching screams of rage are quite memorable. This timeless protest record is a gem.      Scott Yanow

Recording: August and September 1960 at Nola Penthouse Studio, New York City, by Bob d'Orleans

Production: Max Roach