Sun Ra – Duke Ellington’s Sound of Space

The great keyboardist and composer Sun Ra presents his 21st Century Alter-Destiny Arkestra in a special performance at Greenwich Village’s The Bottom Line, presenting his interpretation of the music of Duke Ellington. This show took place in 1987 in New York City. Featured in the Arkestra were none other than luminaries John Gilmore, Marshall Allen, June Tyson, Danny Thompson, Pat Patrick, and more. Duke Ellington was a major influence on Sun Ra, and when Ra was a young musician, he presented one of his scores for Ellington’s personal inspection. This is an interesting glimpse from a space-bridge between two great African-American composers.

1. Perdido (Juan Tizol) 5:09

2. Drum Solo / Group Improvisation / Ra’s Entrance (Ensemble) 10:23

3. East St Louis Toodle-oo (Ellington, Miley) 10:15

4. Satin Doll (Ellington, Strayhorn) 9:55

5. Sophisticated Lady (Ellington, Mills) 12:00

Sun Ra and his 21st Century Alter-Destiny Arkestra

February 17, 1987

The Bottom Line, NYC

“Tribute to Duke Ellington”