The Futuristic Sounds of Sun Ra (LP)

Sun Ra's only release for the Savoy label is a gem. Recorded in October 1961, this is probably the first recording the Arkestra made after arriving in New York. You're dealing with a small Arkestra (seven main instrumentalists, joined by vocalist Ricky Murray on "China Gate") that still plays the boppy, highly arranged music characteristic of the Chicago years (1954-1961). Ra sticks with acoustic piano throughout the session, but various percussion instruments are scattered throughout the band, giving some tracks a slightly exotic feel. John Gilmore plays bass clarinet on a couple of tracks (as well as some great tenor solos), and Marshall Allen's flute playing is, as always, excellent. This album was produced by Tom Wilson, who also produced the first Sun Ra LP, Jazz by Sun Ra (1956) for the Transition label, later reissued by Delmark as Sun Song (Wilson later signed the Mothers of Invention to Verve and "electrified" Bob Dylan). With the exception of "The Beginning," all the tracks are very accessible. This is an album for those who believe that the Arkestra did nothing but make noise.