MARSHALL ALLEN Vinilo y CD

Review: Sun Ra Arkestra's bandleader since 1958, Marshall Allen, will always be known for his hyper-effected sax wayfarings; he treats a simple monophonic brass instrument as a vessel for psychic voyaging, onstage and off. Perhaps, however, this has meant he's been too freewheeling in his approach: Somehow, in over 70 years since joining the Arkestra, Allen had never recorded a solo album. That all changed just two days after his 100th birthday, resulting in what you hear here. Now the debut album by a live legend unfolds, like a rogue planet hidden behind a supernova. This proverbial "new dawn" draws on both new beginnings and legacies, waxing gibbous between big band swing, freer-form danceoffs, and even a vocal hoverer with Neneh Cherry.

Review: There have been plenty of retrospectives on the absolutely essential work of Sun Ra and his Arkestra over the years, but trust Strut to go that bit deeper when they elected to focus on the Sun God himself. As the extensive title suggests, this collection places the focus on proceedings in the hands of Marshall Allen, the longest serving member of the Arkestra and current band leader. The results mean In The Orbit Of Ra feels a whole lot more personal and indepth, with over 25 years worth of Sun Ra-lead music documented. It's all been fully remastered from the original tapes and is pretty much the most conclusive introduction to the work of this pioneer one could hope for. In addition to the 13 track double vinyl set, this release also includes the double CD edition which includes a further 7 Ra gems!

Review: Making your debut release at 100 years old must be a feat that no-one's ever achieved before. This isn't just a novelty act. Marshall Allen remains a force of nature, and 'New Dawn' proves it. The lead single and title of his debut solo album is a subdued yet powerful statement, showing a different side to the legendary saxophonist who has shaped the Sun Ra Arkestra for over 70 years. Featuring Neneh Cherry, 'New Dawn' unfolds as a contemporary jazz odyssey, balancing Allen's signature cosmic energy with a deep, introspective warmth. His alto sax glides gently over the composition, offering space for Cherry's ethereal presence and the bright young talents surrounding him. On the flip, the instrumental edit allows Allen's playing to shine even more, revealing his intricate phrasing and the emotional depth behind every note. It's not the explosive free-jazz chaos of Sun Ra's wildest moments but a thoughtful meditation on time, legacy and reinvention. For a musician who has always looked to the future, Allen's 'New Dawn' is both a bold continuation and a fresh beginning. A special release for a special artist.

Review: In honour of Marshall Allen's lifelong contributions to music, Frank Kleinschmidt of IN+OUT Records brought together 24 musicians from the Sun Ra Arkestra for a historic studio session. This gathering featured the ensemble's largest possible lineup and aimed to capture the Arkestra's expansive sound in its fullest polyphony and timeless depth. Spanning four generations of musicians and a repertoire that reflects 100 years of jazz history, the session showcases a vibrant variety of instruments and styles and the result is a profound tribute to the enduring legacy of the Sun Ra Arkestra.