Shining
sounds from the dawn of the Sun Ra Arkestra. "El is A Sound of Joy"
was recorded in 1956 and appeared the following year on the very first Saturn
LP, Super-Sonic Jazz. Incredible is the fact that saxophonist
Charles Davis, here providing the soulful baritone anchor line (counterpoint to
Ra's formidable left hand), remains in the front-line of today's Sun Ra Arkestra
directed by Marshall Allen. Shuffle swing breakdown jets leisurely, casually,
masterfully, painting lush, post-modern impressions of ancient future worlds,
of space, of time -- of Chicago's elevated trains -- Reaching for the sky,
for Joy. The "Joy" coda dovetails magically into the intro theme of
"Black Sky And Blue Moon," before downshifting into another dimension
of romantic outrospection. We follow The Nu Sounds, aka Cosmic Rays, on a
faraway journey to the land of late-50s Chicago singing groups, the Arkestra
supporting with quiet grace, pulsing in Nubians of Plutonia mode.
An uncanny blend of antique blackness and bright satellites, ethereal voices
perfectly in tune; thanks to Ra's disciplined coaching (plus Modern Harmonic's
expert re-mastering), their sweet dynamics and exact harmonics are crystal
clear. Flute solo from Marshall Allen. Hearts swelling like the full moon,
ripening in the darkness to the point of bursting.
Includes:
El Is A Sound Of Joy • Black Sky and Blue Moon