Reflections in Blue

Originally released on Black Saint, Reflections in Blue captures the legendary keyboardist, composer, and intergalactic philosopher turning his singular vision toward the classic swing music of his youth. Backed by a formidable 15-piece Arkestra-including long-time anchors John Gilmore on tenor sax, Marshall Allen on alto sax, and Randall Murphy on trumpet-Sun Ra delivers a vibrant set of transformed standards and original swing-era blues, infusing vintage big-band tradition with his signature futuristic flair. Far from a nostalgic tribute, the program reinterprets classic repertoire through Sun Ra's unique sonic lens. The opening "State Street Chicago" immediately sets the tone with futuristic electric keyboards, while Pat Patrick's high-speed "Nothin' From Nothin'" emulates a runaway train. From a synthetic two-beat reading of Jerome Kern's "Yesterdays" to a delightfully theatrical take on "I Dream Too Much" and the roaring, Count Basie-inspired title track, the Arkestra balances humor, virtuosic soloing, and wildly spirited ensemble playing throughout. Exuberant, highly accessible, and characteristically unpredictable, Reflections in Blue remains one of the most delightful and essential entries in the vast Sun Ra discography. Reflections in Blue will be reissued on CD and 180g One-Step Pressing Black Splatter Vinyl LP (numbered & limited 1,000 pcs) with new liner notes as part of the Gems For Jazz Heads series in January 2027.

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