Max Roach died this week. I saw him play once, on the New Haven Green in 1990. He was the greatest drummer I ever saw. He did more with less, playing a small kit, quietly and subtley, with brushes. I don't think there was much more than a snare, hi-hat and bass drum. The man got more sound, rhythm and variety out of his kit than most guys manage when surrounded by a roomful of drums and symbols. May his memory be eternal.
