Release Date: 1/01/1984
Recording Date: 1/1984
Label: Savoy
Type: CD
- Genre/Styles
- Avant-Garde, Early Creative, Free Jazz, Progressive Jazz, Avant-Garde Jazz
Currently 0.0 / 5.0 Stars
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What the Critics Say
Sun Ra's extensive worldwide catalog often includes similar releases under a variety of titles. We Are in the Future is a mid-'80s repackaging of The Futuristic Sounds of Sun Ra (1962). Regardless of how it is presented, these recordings feature a youthful and intensive Solar Myth Science/Astro-Infinity Arkestra who had very recently relocated from Chicago to New York City. The compact compositions and swinging tunes lay out a typically nimble backdrop for the singular, if not still somewhat futuristic sounds of Ra's seminal post-bop sides. Prominent among these platters are both indelibly off-kilter melodies and tight arrangements. This is in direct contrast to the decidedly looser and extended free jazz incorporated into later efforts such as The Magic City (1966) and Atlantis (1969). When recorded, circa October of 1961, Sun Ra had yet to take the leap into amplified keyboards and was still on piano, affecting the end result with equivalent measures of drama and subtlety. A prime example can be heard on the bouncy and ethereal "Bassism," as much of the tune's inherent and palpable beauty comes from the intimacy of the ensemble. This is especially true of Marshall Allen's haunting flute solo, adding an ambiance of mystery to the hypnotic swirl. The undeniable influence of Thelonious Monk's gorgeously arithmetical tone clusters is evident throughout "Of Sounds and Something Else." Just as strong are the contributions from Pat Patrick (trombone) and John Gilmore (sax). "Beginning" is notable for its highly percussive vibe, evolving into some sinuous and bluesy leads from Allen. The stately and processional rendering of Victor Young and Harold Adamson's "China Gates" features a rare solo vocal from percussionist Ricky Murray. Along with other seminal efforts such as Sun Song (1956) and Visits Planet Earth (1958), We Are in the Future is an essential early entry in the artist's voluminous 100-plus title discography, providing insight into his remarkably complex musical scores, not to mention the equally interesting instrumentation of the Solar Myth Science/Astro-Infinity Arkestra. ~ Lindsay Planer, All Music Guide
