Sun Ra Arkestra

[gdogus]

The Sun Ra Arkestra will perform as part of Chattanooga's Nightfall series, a free concert program sponsored by the city's downtown partnership.

Though I've never really been able to get into Sun Ra, I'll definitely be attending; live jazz is such a rarity in these parts, and it's free, after all. But I'm wondering what to expect out of the band - that is, what they're up to lately in a live setting. Any help?

One thing I expect is that the regular Nightfall concert crowd will experience a collective WTF?! moment.

I'm pretty sure most have no idea what's coming their way.

Edited May 31, 2006 by gdogus

[Jim Dye]

Damn! I should drive down.

[gdogus]

Their official website indicates that they're "under the direction" of Marshall Allen, who's certainly been with the Arkestra a long time.

http://www.elrarecords.com/1-index.html

The music played on the website sounds more conventional than I would have expected.

[HolyStitt]

I have seen Arkestra under the direction of Marshall Allen twice. The first time was at a biker bar in Minneapolis on the evening of the 1996 presidential election. Great music, but the bikers were not too thrilled with the music! The second time was a few years later at the Walker Art Center, which was a much better venue.

The Arkestra, when I have seen them, has a very eclectic songbook. They play everything from Sun Ra standards, the Disney Songbook, and staples of the Fletcher Henderson big band.

If memory serves me correct, there might be a few numbers that will wake up the audience, but the whole night won't drive people away from the concert.