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This compilation concentrates on late 1958, during which time Sun Ra and his various Arkestras were taking up residency at El Saturn Studios in Chicago. As the title indicates, Jazz in Silhouette and Sound Sun Pleasure!! make up the bulk of this release, while rounding out the package are two cuts considered to have been recorded around the same time frame. According to the documentation, Ra on keyboards is supported throughout by Hobart Dotson (trumpet), Marshall Allen (alto sax/flute), James Spaulding (alto sax/flute), John Gilmore (tenor sax), Pat Patrick (baritone sax/flute), Charles Davis (baritone sax), Ronnie Boykins (bass), William "Bugs" Cochran (drums/percussion), and/or Robert Barry (drums). This phase in Ra's musical development reveals that the Arkestra, while still working out singular remakes from the Great American Songbook, were increasing the number of Ra originals in their repertoire. Ra's unrelenting innovation is exemplified by his skills as a writer, arranger, player, and bandleader. The very early reading of the venerable Ra classic "Saturn" is essential listening, while the dense and multifaceted "Velvet" offers Hobart Dotson (trumpet) an opportunity to unleash his talents. Ra's fascination with music from his ancestors comes to fruition on the extensive "Ancient Aiethopia." To a similar extent, the dozen-plus-minute "Blues at Midnight" allows the combo's soloists a chance to stand out, particularly John Gilmore, Ronnie Boykins, Pat Patrick (on baritone sax), and Marshall Allen (on alto sax), all of whom interact with Ra's fundamental melodic and rhythmic banter. Parties familiar with Evidence Music's stellar reissue of Sound Sun Pleasure!! will note that none of the "bonus tracks" can be found here. Once again, the time frame is 1958 in the Windy City. Joining the band on a couple of these tunes is Hatty Randolph. Her contributions to "'Round Midnight" and "Back in Your Own Backyard" raise the question as to why Ra so rarely worked with vocalists again prior to June Tyson's 1970s and '80s stint. The best of the lot, however, is the empathy she brings to "You Never Told Me That You Care" -- co-written by Ra and Hobart Dotson. The catchy instrumental "Great Balls of Fire" bears no apparent relationship to the Jerry Lee Lewis song of the same name. The song was initially pressed by Saturn Records on a 45-rpm disc b/w the Jazz in Silhouette selection "Hours After." Interestingly, the label credit read "Le Sun Ra and His Arkestra." Although it may be last on the CD, "Planet Earth" would prove to be an important touchstone for Ra and it would outlive him, becoming a key component in the Arkestra's post-Ra performances. ~ Lindsay Planer
