"Marshall Allen presents Sun Ra And His Arkestra: In The Orbit Of Ra" is a captivating journey through the cosmos of sound crafted by the legendary Sun Ra and his Arkestra. Released on Strut in 2014, this double album spans a staggering two hours and one minute, offering an expansive exploration of free jazz, avant-garde, and hard bop genres. The album is a testament to Sun Ra's innovative spirit and his ability to blend cosmic themes with intricate musical structures.
The tracklist is a stellar lineup, featuring both studio recordings and live performances, including "Somewhere In Space," "The Lady With The Golden Stockings," and "Rocket Number Nine Take Off For The Planet Venus." The live tracks, such as "Dance Of The Cosmo-Aliens - Live In Milan, 1978" and "Trying To Put The Blame On Me - Live In Rome, 1977," capture the raw energy and improvisational brilliance of Sun Ra and his Arkestra. The album also includes extended versions of classic tracks like "Island In The Sun - Extended Version," providing a deeper dive into the band's creative process.
Sun Ra's unique blend of jazz, space-age themes, and avant-garde experimentation makes "In The Orbit Of Ra" a standout in his extensive discography. The album is a celebration of Sun Ra's enduring influence and his ability to push the boundaries of jazz music. Whether you're a long-time fan or new to Sun Ra's work, this album offers a rich and rewarding listening experience.
