Sun Ra Arkestra and Sonic Liberation Front at Olde Club

Editor’s note: This article was initially published in The Daily Gazette, Swarthmore’s online, daily newspaper founded in Fall 1996. As of Fall 2018, the DG has merged with The Phoenix. See the about page to read more about the DG.

The Sonic Liberation Front, a Philly-based band that describes themselves as a combination of free jazz, Afro-Cuban Yoruba roots, and electronica, opened the night. Photos by Jiuxung June Xie.

Their music featured a repeating groove from the bass and percussion, with freer improvisation on top by the other instruments.

Although the eclectic founder of the band died in 1993, his Arkestra -- which ranged greatly in musical style but is best known for its more experimental jazz numbers -- has continued. Since 1995, the Arkestra has continued under the leadership of saxophonist Marshall Allen, a World War II veteran who recently celebrated his 85th birthday.

Despite the change of pace from more typical shows, Olde Club enjoyed a full crowd until the end of the show, three hours later.

Jiuxing June Xie

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