Sun Ra Arkestra: Music From Tomorrow's World

The Majestic Hall Session, comprising the second half of the disc, is even more obscure. Apparently culled from a rehearsal tape, the focus here is on Ra originals, particularly four unknowns (“Majestic 1-4”) as well as his octet arrangements. While John Gilmore leads the way here as well, the highlight is the presence of baritone saxophonist Ronald Wilson, who contributes both excellent solo statements and solid ensemble work. The beautiful ballad “Majestic 1,” for instance, provides Wilson with plenty of room for his melodicism. The third track, “Possession,” follows a similar stylistic approach and features a gorgeous Gilmore solo, while Wilson adds striking originality to both “Tapestry From An Asteroid” and the swinging “Majestic 2.”

Perhaps the strongest track of the session is the tightly arranged “Majestic 4,” featuring the solo voices of cornetist Phil Cohran, Gilmore and Wilson, as well as the energetically propulsive drumming of Robert Barry. As a parting note, the potential listener should know that the entire disc has pretty awful sound. However, once one’s ears adjust, the magnificent performances make up for the lapse in fidelity.

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