Nuits de la Fondation Maeght

Dive into the cosmic jazz universe of Sun Ra with the highly anticipated release, "Nuits de la Fondation Maeght." Captured live at the Fondation Maeght in France over two sweltering August days in 1970, this expansive four-hour journey showcases Sun Ra and his Arkestra at the peak of their avant-garde prowess. The album is a treasure trove of free jazz, hard bop, and avant-garde experimentation, featuring a mix of Sun Ra's original compositions and reimagined standards.

The double vinyl set opens with the ethereal "Sun Interlude" and quickly propels listeners into the interstellar realm with tracks like "Love In Outer Space" and "Cosmic Explorer." Sun Ra's innovative use of electronic instruments, poetic lyrics, and the Arkestra's dynamic interplay create an otherworldly atmosphere. The setlist also includes renditions of Sun Ra classics like "We Travel The Spaceways" and "Satellites Are Spinning," as well as unexpected covers such as "Days Of Wine And Roses."

Throughout the performance, Sun Ra's philosophical musings and the Arkestra's virtuosic playing shine, offering a glimpse into the band's improvisational genius. The extended performances allow the music to unfold organically, with each track offering a unique exploration of sound and space. "Nuits de la Fondation Maeght" is a testament to Sun Ra's enduring influence on jazz and his ability to push boundaries, making it an essential addition to any jazz enthusiast's collection.