The Solar-Myth Approach (Vol. 1 & 2) by Sun Ra, released 30 December 2020.
This version of The Solar-Myth Approach (Vol. 1 & 2) comes as a 2xCD. -
"Solar-Myth Approach 1 & 2" on CD by Sun Ra & the Solar Myth Arkestra is a deep dive into one of the most visionary phases of cosmic jazz. Recorded at the dawn of the 1970s, this music captures Sun Ra's transition from big-band swing roots into a freer, more exploratory sound world, full of astral textures, chants, trance-like grooves and explosive horn arrangements. Across these two volumes, you hear how composition and improvisation blur into a single, ritualistic flow: pulsing ostinatos, elastic rhythms, spacious electronics and unexpected melodic fragments that appear like signals from deep space. It's an immersive listen that rewards both focused attention and repeated plays, revealing new layers of detail in its shifting harmonies, dense ensemble passages and sudden moments of stark, minimalist beauty. For collectors of spiritual and avant-garde jazz, this edition offers an essential window into Sun Ra's unique universe and the collective power of the Arkestra at full intensity.
Sun Ra, the architect of this sonic cosmos, is one of the central figures of avant-garde jazz. Known for his Afrofuturist mythology, pioneering use of electronics in jazz and his long-running, constantly evolving Arkestra, he expanded the very idea of what a jazz orchestra could be. Over decades of activity, Sun Ra and his Arkestra became legendary for their theatrical live performances, elaborate costumes and boundary-breaking recordings that influenced generations of musicians far beyond the jazz world. Releases from his Saturn label and key albums on other imprints have cemented his status as an icon of experimental music and spiritual jazz. "Solar-Myth Approach 1 & 2" stands among the significant documents from this rich, exploratory period.
The label CORBETT VS DEMPSEY is known for carefully curated archival releases, particularly in the realms of free jazz, experimental and underground music. Their editions typically emphasize high-quality audio restoration, thoughtful artwork and detailed liner notes, making historically important recordings accessible to a new audience. By presenting "Solar-Myth Approach 1 & 2" in CD format, CORBETT VS DEMPSEY underlines its commitment to preserving key moments in avant-garde music history and offering them in editions that respect both the artists and dedicated listeners.
This CD release is ideal for Sun Ra devotees and newcomers alike: a focused snapshot of a band at a creative peak, packaged with the kind of care that invites deep, attentive listening and situates the music in its broader artistic context.
Modern
32.384
- AcidJazz/DanceJazz 106- Avantgarde/Free 982- Bebop 109- Bossa Nova 341- Cool 75- Hard Bop 155- Jazz Rock/Fusion 748- Latin Jazz 1.000- Other Modern Jazz 27.399- PopJazz/SmoothJazz 798- World-&Ethno-Ja. 448
