Resonance Records to Release Sun Ra’s “Lights on a Satellite” Live 1978 Performance
A special RSD Black Friday limited double LP capturing Sun Ra and his Arkestra at the Famous Ballroom in Baltimore
Lights on a Satellite: Live at the Left Bank
by Sun Ra
Label: Resonance Records
Recorded: 1978
Release Date: November 29, 2024
Resonance Records is releasing Lights on a Satellite, a live 1978 performance by Sun Ra and his Arkestra at the Famous Ballroom in Baltimore, as an RSD Black Friday limited double LP. Sun Ra’s performance, which combined his Arkestra’s space-age rhythms with theatrical stage presence and freeform improvisation, dazzled both veteran and younger listeners alike. The group’s eclectic repertoire, ranging from African-inspired rhythms to electric bass-driven swing, captured Sun Ra’s ability to merge different eras and styles into a unique, forward-thinking sound. Musicians like Gary Bartz and Craig Taborn praise Sun Ra’s fearless approach to music, which broke down stylistic boundaries and left a lasting impact on generations of artists.
This previously unheard concert, co-produced by Zev Feldman and Sun Ra archivist Michael D. Anderson, offers a mix of Sun Ra’s avant-garde cosmic Jazz alongside Jazz standards by Fletcher Henderson, Miles Davis, and Tadd Dameron. The package includes notes by Jazz critic J.D. Considine, reflections from musicians like Marshall Allen and Gary Bartz, and additional tracks from filmmaker Robert Mugge’s Sun Ra: A Joyful Noise.
Personnel
Sun Ra • Acoustic & Electric Piano
June Tyson • Vocals
John Gilmore • Tenor Saxophone & Clarinet
Marshall Allen • Alto Saxophone, Flute & Piccolo
Danny Davis • Alto Saxophone & Flute
Danny Ray Thompson • Baritone Saxophone & Flute
Walter Miller • Trumpet
Michael Ray • Trumpet & Vocal
Elo Omoe • Alto Saxophone & Bass Clarinet
Craig Harris • Trombone
Dale Williams • Guitar
Damon Choice • Vibes
Richard Williams (Radu) • Acoustic & Electric Bass
Michael D Anderson • Drums
Eddie Thomas • Drums
Unknown • Drums
Unknown • Drums
Atakatune • Congas
James Jacson • Ancient Infinity Drum & Bassoon
The Jingle Brothers • Bells & Percussion