eabs: discipline of sun ra
Francisco Espregueira
Via Astigmatic Records the revered Polish instrumental-jazz-hip-hop collective EABS recreates some of the magical compositions made by the legend of Sun Ra between 1957 and 1979. Result of the preparations for a special concert related to this release, and of the deep reflections on astral meanings, the ideas for Discipline of Sun Ra took shape. The creative process of the album revolved around two Sun Ra’s ideas - deconstruction and discipline - and EABS approached the composition in exactly the same way.
On the Slavic Spirits album, released last year, EABS was inspired by the ancient past. Discovering Sun Ra’s concept wasn’t coincidental - as he also believed and shared the philosophy of coming through the darkness to see the sun and enlightenment. From the past to the future. Sun Ra was aiming to record timeless music that could still be alive in a 1000 years, and with no hesitation, he managed to do it - with the help, the ideas and the discipline carried by EABS on their thrid album. Discipline of Sun Ra is available in vinyl.
“By infinity, Mr. Ra means creating jazz of the future, but also covering the past”
Last friday was also the day Sun Ra Arkestra released their first album in twenty years. Swirling represents the continuation of a heartfelt rebirth of the Arkestra under Marshall Allen’s guidance since Sun Ra left the planet in 1993, gaining new generations of followers from their regular touring across the globe. With a big band line-up featuring long-standing Arkestra members including Danny Ray Thompson (RIP), Michael Ray, Vincent Chancey, Knoel Scott, Cecil Brooks, Atakatune (RIP), Elson Nascimento and Tyler Mitchell, the album is a full-blooded celebration of Sun Ra’s legacy. Also available in vinyl.
“We truly hope that this recording brings much joy to a planet which is so deeply in need of a spirit sound and vibration. We hope it contributes to a change in the ominous direction of man’s journey through the cosmos.”