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Sun Ra Arkestra: Lights on a Satellite review – fitting tribute to a century of jazz

As saxophonist and band leader Marshall Allen turns 100, his evergreen outfit effortlessly draw on their rich history, as classics meet the cosmic

A distinctive and often wild alto saxophonist, Allen has dedicated his creative life to the Arkestra, the group founded by “cosmic jazz” pioneer Sun Ra (born Herman Blount), which he joined in 1957 and which he has directed since 1995, shortly after its founder left Earth for his preferred planet, Saturn. The title track is led by Allen’s restless, writhing sax into an ominous, slow-building piece pierced by frenzied solos, in contrast to Friendly Galaxy, an easy-going romp shimmering with outer planetary effects. Alternately comes Big John’s Special, a purring piece of 1930s brass, Baby Won’t You Please Be Mine, a recently unearthed torch ballad, and even that Tin Pan Alley warhorse, Way Down Yonder in New Orleans.

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