In 1970, Max Roach first organized M'Boom, a unique unit comprised entirely of percussionists. By utilizing such instruments as marimba, xylophone, tympani, vibes, bells, gongs, drum sets, and even a musical saw, Roach leads a very colorful and self-sufficient group. Originally a septet comprised of Roach, Warren Smith, Freddie Waits, Omar Clay, Joe Chambers, Roy Brooks, and Ray Mantilla, the group grew to ten pieces in later years. A part-time project, M'Boom has recorded for Baystate (1973), Columbia (1979), Soul Note (1984), and Blue Moon (1992) and appeared at the 1994 Monterey Jazz Festival.