Sun Ra & His Arkestra - Supersonic Jazz [Double CD]

Experience the pinnacle of Sun Ra's early output with this official expanded edition of Supersonic Jazz. Recorded in 1956 and released in 1957 on the Saturn label, this album showcases Sun Ra & His Arkestra as their unique musical vision began to propel them away from the mainstream jazz conventions of the mid-1950s, reflecting elements of bebop, Latin, and R&B while forging a distinct path.

Key Features & Context

• Official expanded edition of Sun Ra's Saturn debut album.
• Features an additional fourteen tracks of alternate versions and studio takes.
• The CD format includes four exclusive CD-only bonus tracks.
• Liner notes penned by Ira Kaplan of Yo La Tengo.
• Includes an essay from longtime Ra blogger Rodger Coleman (NUVOID Sun Ra Sundays).
• The original recording was assembled from sessions at two Chicago studios (RCA Victor and Balkan).
• Biographer John Szwed notes characteristics on these recordings that seemed alien to swing, bebop, or hard bop.

Contents

This package contains a Double CD edition featuring the complete Supersonic Jazz material plus bonus content.

Specifications

• Artist/Author: Sun Ra & His Arkestra
• Format: Double CD
• Number of Items: 2 Discs
• Language: English
• Release Date: 2025-12-19
• Manufacturer: Cosmic Myth
• Weight: 110g
• Dimensions: 142 x 125 x 10 mm (Approximate CD Case Size)
• Country of Origin: USA
• Best Sellers Rank: #121 in Jazz

This release captures Sun Ra as he launched the Saturn record company with business partner Alton Abraham, marking a crucial moment in avant-garde jazz history.