Max Roach
Drums Solo on
Ko-Ko

About

Max Roach's drum solo is the second of two improvisations on this recording, following Parker's two-chorus alto saxophone statement. Taking a half chorus of the 64-bar AABA form in B-flat at 310 BPM, Roach delivers a dynamic solo at this extraordinary tempo that demonstrates the innovative drumming approach that was integral to the bebop revolution. His half-chorus statement, while brief, captures the forward-thinking rhythmic conception that made him Parker's ideal musical partner on this historic date.

Max Roach was 20 to 21 years old at the time.