Scott Free

“This strong set from the Max Roach Quartet (one of the finest regular bands of the 1980s) finds the group performing a 40-minute version of trumpeter Cecil Bridgewater's "Scott Free."  Because the piece has plenty of solo space (two lengthy improvisations apiece for Bridgewater, tenor saxophonist Odean Pope, bassist Tyrone Brown and drummer Roach, with a medium-tempo section, a rapid segment and some free interludes), there is more variety on this lengthy work than one might expect. This is excellent music, easily recommended as an example of the underrated but consistently brilliant Max Roach Quartet.”   (source: AllMusic.com, S. Yanow)

"...a hefty two-part suite which sustains interest, not just for Roach's astonishing ability to give even minute changes in the metre all the drama of major instrumental statements, but because his partners are by now so well attuned to what he is doing..."    (source: The Penguin Guide to Jazz on CD - Eighth Edition)