What makes Quiet as It's Kept by Max Roach notable?

Quiet as It's Kept has been recognized for its innovative approach to jazz composition and improvisation, receiving critical acclaim upon release. It reflects a significant moment in jazz history, influencing subsequent musicians and contributing to the evolution of modern jazz aesthetics. Released in 1960, Quiet as It's Kept marked Max Roach's transition into a more intimate, lyrical style, following his groundbreaking work in bebop and hard bop. This album came after Roach's collaboration with prominent artists like Charlie Parker and Miles Davis, positioning him as a pioneering figure in the jazz genre.

Who is Quiet as It's Kept for?

Quiet as It's Kept works well if you're into steady, consistent energy levels, long, immersive listening sessions and contemplative evening reflections.

How many songs are on Quiet as It's Kept?

Quiet as It's Kept has 6 tracks, running approximately 33 minutes.

Quiet as It's Kept

Max Roach · 1960

33 min · 6 tracks · jazz

A delicate interplay of intricate rhythms and soulful melodies, showcasing the vibrant essence of jazz through Max Roach's masterful drumming.

Spotify Apple Music

YouTube Music YouTube Deezer Bandcamp SoundCloud

Own it: Amazon eBay

Top tracks — play these first

→
Quiet as It's Kept — The title track opens with a soft yet captivating melody that sets the tone for the entire album, blending intricate percussion with expressive instrumentation.
→
Lotus Blossom — This composition features a beautiful interplay between the drums and piano, highlighting Roach's ability to create atmospheric depth while maintaining rhythmic precision.
→
To Lady — In this track, the rich harmonies and emotive phrasing showcase Roach's talent for crafting nuanced musical conversations, making it a standout piece on the album.

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 exemplifies intricate rhythms and lyrical melodies, showcasing Roach's innovative approach to jazz.

What we noticed

Each track showcases Roach's drumming as both a rhythmic foundation and a melodic voice, often leading the ensemble rather than merely supporting it.
The interplay between instruments is highlighted by extended solos, allowing for moments of improvisation that feel spontaneous and conversational.

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

steady, consistent energy levels
long, immersive listening sessions
contemplative evening reflections
dynamic emotional journeys

Where this album fits

Career context: Released in 1960, Quiet as It's Kept marked Max Roach's transition into a more intimate, lyrical style, following his groundbreaking work in bebop and hard bop. This album came after Roach's collaboration with prominent artists like Charlie Parker and Miles Davis, positioning him as a pioneering figure in the jazz genre.
Stylistic neighbors: Art Blakey· Elvin Jones· Tony Williams