Sun Ra and His Arkestra present a captivating and unique reinterpretation of Disney classics with their album "Pink Elephants On Parade," released on July 5, 2024, under Modern Harmonic. This intriguing collection features nine tracks drawn from various live performances between 1985 and 1990, offering a fresh perspective on beloved Disney songs through the lens of Sun Ra's distinctive jazz style.
The album spans a diverse range of genres, including free jazz, avant-garde, and hard bop, showcasing Sun Ra's innovative approach to music. Tracks like "The Forest Of No Return" and "Someday My Prince Will Come," recorded at the 9:30 Club, highlight the band's improvisational prowess and dynamic energy. Other notable performances include "Zip-A-Dee-Doo-Dah" from Virginia 1988 and "Let's Go Fly A Kite" from Zurich 1987, each bringing a unique flavor to the Disney repertoire.
While the sound quality may vary, as expected from live recordings, the album delivers a rich and engaging listening experience. Sun Ra's reinterpretations of Disney classics are both beautiful and sometimes unsettling, offering a fresh take on familiar tunes. Whether you're a fan of Sun Ra's work or simply curious about his unique approach to jazz, "Pink Elephants On Parade" is sure to intrigue and delight.