This album was recorded at the legendary Jazz Workshop in the North Beach area of San Francisco in October of 1962. In 1959 Max Roach declared that his music would from that time on reflect not only his musical stance but his political stance as regards civil rights for his people of African-American heritage. After this recording, Mr. Roach was boycotted by many booking agents and the record companies of the day. He did not resume recording until he signed with Atlantic Records in 1965. This album brings his working band to the fore and unfortunately doesn't include his wife, vocalist Abbey Lincoln but it is all about his powerhouse quartet with included tenor saxophonist Clifford Jordan, pianist Mal Waldron and bassist Eddie Khan and of course Mr. Roach. Two long pieces are included on this recording and both are in the form of a suite designed to feature everyone in the band extensively.. "Speak Brother, Speak!" is the first long suite based in the blues and the second piece entitled "A Variation" based on a theme by Heitor Villa-Lobos is another foray into a minor key. Both are so effective and moving. "Speak Brother, Speak!" speaks to us all so listen up!

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