Sun Ra Arkestra at Union Pool (photo by Ellen Qbertplaya)

 

On Sunday 8/28, Sun Ra Arkestra, led by 98 year old Marshall Allen, played two sets at Union Pool as part of their Summer Thunder series which offers free outdoor shows every Sunday. Matt Fiveash, a WFMU DJ, spun some records to warm up the at capacity crowd before Sun Ra Arkestra performed as there was no opening act. Tara Middleton provided beautiful lead vocals for the band and some favorites include “Space Is the Place,” “Nuclear War,” and “Angels and Demons at Play.” Even on the small deck of Union Pool’s courtyard, saxophonist Knoel Scott managed to find room to do his impressive space dance.

 

Union Pool just recently got back in the swing of things after the fire in an adjacent building that damaged the venue and it’s awesome to see them doing shows again.

 

In conjunction with the show there was also a toy drive at the entrance with toys going to children of asylum seekers being bussed from Texas to New York City. There will be opportunities to donate at the remaining Summer Thunder shows as well, read more info here.

 

Scroll down for fan shot videos and pics of the show (photos by Ellen Qbertplaya)

 

 

SUN RA ARKESTRA