What makes It's Time by Max Roach notable?

It's Time is notable for its innovative approach to jazz composition, showcasing Roach's sophisticated drumming and arrangement skills. The album received critical acclaim upon release, solidifying Roach's reputation as a leading figure in jazz. Additionally, its blend of traditional and contemporary elements influenced subsequent generations of jazz musicians. Max Roach was well-established by the time he released It's Time, following his influential work as a drummer and bandleader in the bebop movement. This album came after his landmark collaboration with Charles Mingus on 'Mingus at Antibes' and highlighted Roach's ability to blend complex structures with evocative performances. It represents a significant moment in his career as he continued to push boundaries in jazz.

Who is It's Time for?

It's Time works well if you're into dynamic rhythms for active listening, afternoon relaxation with intricate layers and exploratory soundscapes for focus.

How many songs are on It's Time?

It's Time has 6 tracks, running approximately 43 minutes.

It's Time

Max Roach · 1962

43 min · 6 tracks · jazz

A vibrant exploration of jazz that weaves intricate rhythms with soulful melodies and communal improvisation.

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Top tracks — play these first

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It’s Time — The title track sets the tone for the album, combining rhythmic complexity with an engaging melody that showcases Roach's unique style.
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Another Valley — This track features intricate interplay between instruments, highlighting Roach’s leadership in creating a collective improvisational space that feels both cohesive and exploratory.
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Lonesome Lover — This piece stands out for its emotional depth, utilizing space and dynamics to convey a rich narrative through sound, which is characteristic of Roach's artistic vision.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

Instrumental

73 /100

Alpine

Higher than 96% of albums we've rated

The album showcases intricate rhythms and communal improvisation, solidifying Roach's innovative approach to jazz.

What we noticed

Each track incorporates extended improvisational sections, allowing different instruments to take turns in the spotlight.
The opening track sets a vibrant tone with a fast tempo, while subsequent tracks explore varying moods and dynamics.

Composition 25% of the score: 8/10
Craft 20% of the score: 9/10
Durability 25% of the score: 7/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 8/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 6/10

Influence 6/10

Significant within its genre. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

dynamic rhythms for active listening
afternoon relaxation with intricate layers
exploratory soundscapes for focus
cascading ideas that evolve gradually

Maybe skip if you

prefer straightforward, catchy tunes
want immediate gratification and simplicity

Where this album fits

Career context: Max Roach was well-established by the time he released It's Time, following his influential work as a drummer and bandleader in the bebop movement. This album came after his landmark collaboration with Charles Mingus on 'Mingus at Antibes' and highlighted Roach's ability to blend complex structures with evocative performances. It represents a significant moment in his career as he continued to push boundaries in jazz.
Stylistic neighbors: Art Blakey· Elvin Jones· Tony Williams