Nothing Is...

Sun Ra's "Nothing Is..." is a captivating live album that captures the essence of his 1966 tour of New York state colleges. Recorded during a pivotal time in jazz history, this album is a testament to Sun Ra's innovative spirit and his ability to blend free jazz, hard bop, and avant-garde elements into a cohesive and thrilling musical experience. The album features a full 70-minute first set, originally released as "Nothing Is..." in 1970, and includes an introduction by ESP artist Burton Greene.

The tracklist is a journey through Sun Ra's cosmic soundscapes, starting with the energetic "Sun Ra and His Band from Outer Space" and continuing through tracks like "The Shadow World," "Outer Spaceways Incorporated," and "Next Stop Mars." Each song showcases Sun Ra's unique compositional style and his band's virtuosic performances. The album's duration of 1 hour and 16 minutes ensures that listeners are fully immersed in the music, with each track flowing seamlessly into the next.

"Nothing Is..." is a standout album in Sun Ra's discography, often regarded as one of the best non-Saturn Sun Ra albums of the '60s. The live recordings capture the raw energy and spontaneity of Sun Ra's performances, making it a must-listen for both longtime fans and those new to his music. The album's re-release in 2015 by Esp-disk ensures that this classic recording is accessible to a new generation of listeners. Whether you're a jazz enthusiast or simply appreciate groundbreaking music, "Nothing Is..." is an essential addition to your collection.

Sun Ra, born Herman Poole Blount, was an American jazz innovator whose career spanned over four decades. As a composer, bandleader, and keyboardist, Sun Ra was renowned for his experimental approach to music, seamlessly blending styles from swing to free jazz. He was the mastermind behind the Arkestra, a big band known for its theatrical performances and innovative instrumentation. Sun Ra's prolific discography is a testament to his genius, featuring a vast array of recordings that showcase his unique vision and cosmic philosophy. His influence on jazz is immeasurable, making him one of the most iconic and forward-thinking figures in the genre's history. Whether you're a seasoned jazz enthusiast or a curious newcomer, Sun Ra's music offers a sonic journey that is as intellectually stimulating as it is emotionally resonant.