"Collage" is a vibrant and dynamic album by the legendary jazz drummer and composer Max Roach, released in 1984 under the Soul Note label. This album showcases the expanded lineup of Max Roach's percussion ensemble, M'Boom, which had grown from a septet to a tentet by the time of these studio sessions. The ensemble features a stellar cast of percussionists, including Eddie Allen, Eli Fountain, Freddie Waits, Joe Chambers, Kenyatte Abdur-Rahman, Ray Mantilla, Roy Brooks, and Warren Smith, each bringing their unique style and expertise to the table.
Recorded over three days in October 1984 at Vanguard Studios in New York City, "Collage" is a testament to Max Roach's vision of the drummer as a musician and his convictions about drumming, drummers, and self-sufficiency. The album spans six tracks, including "Circles," "It's Time," "Jamaican Sun," "Street Dance," "Mr. Seven," and "A Quiet Place," each offering a unique blend of hard bop, bebop, jazz, and free jazz elements. The album's duration is a concise yet impactful 42 minutes, packed with intricate rhythms, improvisational brilliance, and collective creativity.
"Collage" is not just an album; it's a celebration of percussion, a fusion of diverse musical influences, and a showcase of Max Roach's innovative approach to jazz. The album's title reflects the eclectic mix of styles and the collaborative spirit of the M'Boom ensemble. Whether you're a seasoned jazz enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, "Collage" offers a captivating listening experience that highlights the power and versatility of percussion in jazz.
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