Max Roach
Drums Solo on
Valse Hot

About

Max Roach's drum solo is the fourth and final improvisation on this recording, closing out the solo section. Taking two choruses of the 16-bar form in A-flat at 141 BPM in 3/4 time, Roach delivers a masterful demonstration of melodic drumming within the waltz framework. His ability to maintain clear formal structure while creating rhythmic narratives in triple meter reflects the innovative approach that made him one of jazz's most important drummers. The solo brings the performance full circle before the return of Rollins's theme.

Max Roach was 31 to 32 years old at the time.