Dive into the cosmic jazz universe of Sun Ra with the release of "Paris 1983," a previously unreleased live set recorded during a late 1983 European tour by Sun Ra and His Arkestra. This album, released on December 2, 2015, under the Enterplanetary Koncepts label, is a treasure trove of free jazz, avant-garde, and hard bop genres, spanning an impressive 1 hour and 29 minutes.
The album kicks off with the enchanting "Kora Intro," setting the stage for a journey through 16 more tracks that showcase Sun Ra's unique blend of musical styles and his Arkestra's virtuosic performances. Highlights include the energetic "Along Came Ra," the bluesy "Parisian Blues (untitled blues)," and the upbeat "Big John's Special." The album also features a mix of standards and original compositions, such as "Sometimes I'm Happy–The Days of Wine and Roses" and "King Porter Stomp," alongside Sun Ra's own creations like "1984" and "Nuclear War."
Sun Ra, known for his innovative and experimental approach to jazz, delivers a captivating performance that is both intellectually stimulating and deeply engaging. The album is a testament to Sun Ra's enduring influence on the jazz genre and his ability to push boundaries and defy conventions. Whether you're a long-time fan of Sun Ra or a newcomer to his music, "Paris 1983" is an essential addition to any jazz enthusiast's collection.
