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The Sun Ra Arkestra is an American jazz group formed in the mid-1950s. The group is considered a pioneer for what became afrofuturism. The band is currently led by Marshall Allen who is supported by more than a dozen other members.

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History
The band is headquartered in a rowhouse in Philadelphia's Germantown neighborhood. Since 1968, the group's founding saxophone player, Marshall Allen, has lived and work in the house.

In 1976, Vincent Chancey, an American jazz hornist joined the group.

In 1993, Allen became the leader of Arkestra after Sun Ra died.

In 1999, the Arkestra released the studio album, "A Song for the Sun."

In 2009, Philadelphia's Institute of Contemporary Art hosted an exhibition of the group's history and artistry.

In 2012 Tara Middleton, a violinist and vocalist joined the group.

In 2017, the Arkestra opened for Solange on her tour supporting her album, A Seat at the Table.

In 2019, the Arkestra had their last major performance at the Hollywood Theater in Portland, Oregon.

In October 2020, the Sun Ra Arkestra released "Swirling", the first album the band released in 20 years. The band recorded the album at Philadelphia’s Rittenhouse Soundworks and was released on Strut Records. The album features the first-ever recording of Sun Ra's song "Darkness."

Music style and influences
The Arkestra draws from a range of musical genres: swing, rock 'n' roll, Chicago blues, improvisation and electronic.

When the Arkestra performs, the band members where flashy capes and sequined headdresses.

Discography
Studio Albums


 * A Song of the Sun (1999)
 * Swirling (2020)