photo by Bulbbrain Creative
“SONS OF RA are transporting us perhaps not only to foreign lands, but another celestial terrain entirely.” – Everything Is Noise
Everything Is Noise is hosting an exclusive video premiere for “Tropic Of Cancer Part IV,” the third single from Chicago-based instrumental avant-jazz fusion trio SONS OF RA and their compelling new Tropic Of Cancer EP, ahead of its release next week.
The eclectic SONS OF RA ensemble draws inspiration from avantgarde music, classic jazz fusion with post-progressive sensibilities, infusing their compositions with cosmic vibrations and experimental fervor. As demonstrated on their 2020-released Cognitive debut EP, and through live performances alongside such artists as Stu Hamm, Sonar, Chester Thompson & Alphonso Johnson, and Consider The Source, drummer Michael Rataj (Arbogast, Mine Collapse) lays an energetic and ever-shifting rhythmic framework for tenor saxophonist/bassist Keith Wakefield (Jan King & Medicine Ball) and guitarist Erik Oldman (Mare Crisium) to weave angular, contrapuntal melodies with ethereal textures augmented by loops and synthesizer explorations. More than a band, they are sonic sorcerers, weaving spells of experimental brilliance that transcend the boundaries of traditional genres.
The trio now returns with Tropic Of Cancer, a six-part suite that further showcases the sprawling SONS OF RA sound. Tropic Of Cancer is an immersive and transformative listen, the EP covering an incredibly vast expanse of auditory territory within its twenty-three-minute lifespan. Several guests contribute performances to the record, with violin by Jessica Billey, pipa by Quentin Dover, and flute by Isaiah Sanderman further expanding its sonic scope. Tropic Of Cancer was recorded, mixed, and mastered by Spenser Morris at Palisade Studios with additional recording by Eric McWhorter at Maynott Studios – both in Chicago – with photography by Josh Dagenais and artwork and layout by Erik Vecchione.
The new video for “Tropic Of Cancer Part IV” was created with videography and editing by drummer Michael Rataj/Bulb Brain Creative, with motion graphic design, animation, and final video production by Chuck Clybourne.
Guitarist Erik Oldman reveals, “The fourth part is really the crown jewel of the suite. The design of the entire piece is to take the listener on a journey and this one really veers off into a world of different sonic textures and tonalities with the violins, additional guitar, and pipa (Chinese Lute). It really is the fullest expression of the sum of SONS OF RA at a compositional level.”
Within their detailed analyzation of the new track, Everything Is Noise writes, “‘Part IV’ certainly has an alien, out-of-this-world feel to it. There is a lot going on instrumentally in this section. The guest features on violin and lute wonderfully complement the already lush soundscapes being explored by the main band’s guitar and drum work. The effect truly is one of a journey into the unknown. SONS OF RA are transporting us perhaps not only to foreign lands, but another celestial terrain entirely. It is off-putting, but in the engaging way of being thrown out of your element desperately searching to find firm ground on which to stand.”
Watch SONS OF RA’s “Tropic Of Cancer Part IV” video first through Everything Is Noise RIGHT HERE.
SONS OF RA will self-release Tropic Of Cancer on 12” vinyl, CD, and digitally next Friday, April 19th. Find preorders and merch HERE, and digital presaves HERE. Also watch the prior videos for “Tropic Of Cancer Part I” HERE and “Tropic Of Cancer Part III” HERE.
SONS OF RA will also release their debut LP later this year.
SONS OF RA is booking an array of live performances and other events throughout the Midwest surrounding the release of the EP. Additional Spring shows, a Fall tour, and more are also in the planning stages. See all confirmed shows below and watch for further updates to post.
SONS OF RA Live:
4/20/2024 Liars Club – Chicago, IL *release show w/ We Killed The Lion, Human Trials, Dead Languages
5/04/2024 WZRD’s 50th Anniversary Bash @ Martyrs – Chicago, IL [info]
5/24/2024 Bantha Tea Bar – Pittsburgh, PA w/ John Hardin
5/25/2024 Mulligans – Grand Rapids, MI w/ Flood The Desert, Apostles
photo by Andrew Rothmund
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