Sun Ra - Exotica : 3LP
  • 3LP


Exotica

  • Cat No: LP-MH-8012C
  • updated:2026-06-21

Format

3LP ---- JPY

Known for his seminal works such as *Songs in the Key of Z*, which spotlighted outsider music, he spearheaded the reappraisal of artists like Esquivel and Raymond Scott, and for introducing concepts such as “Outsider Music” and “Space Age Bachelor Pad Music” to the world—“Exotica” is a compilation of Sun Ra’s recordings curated from an “exotica” perspective under the supervision of Irwin Chusid, the legendary American journalist who has unearthed hidden musical treasures. Originally released in 2017 for Record Store Day by *Sundazed*’s sub-label *Modern Harmonic* as a 3-LP set in a three-panel gatefold sleeve, this 2026 edition—featuring “Tequila Sunrise Orange” colored vinyl—is now in stock.

Curated by Irwin Chusid, a figure who has left his mark on the history of modern American music—and who could be said to have influenced, even indirectly, those who love “music from the unknown,” such as outsider music, exotica, space-age pop, and world music. (His seminal work, *Songs in the Key of Z*, was previously reissued on CD by EM Records.) The genre “Exotica,” derived from the title of Martin Denny’s album of the same name, refers to music from primarily tropical regions—such as Africa, Asia, and Oceania—presented from a Western perspective as “paradise music,” often tinged with fanciful misconceptions. This compilation draws from a vast archive to present Sun Ra’s recordings—which, despite their themes of “space” and “Egypt,” have rarely been discussed in the context of “Exotica”—through the lens of that genre. Tracks have also been selected from a collection of previously unreleased Sun Ra recordings—including those collected by EL SATURN founder Alton Abraham and housed at the University of Chicago’s research center. This album offers a captivating, immersive soundscape that reveals new facets of Sun Ra’s artistry. (Original Japanese text by Saito)

Track List

Sensuous dreamscapes to transport the listener to the lush tropical environs of the outer reaches of the omniverse. Three sunset orange inter-stellar saucers of "Exotic-Ra" bringing you to a lush cocktail party where space is the place. All packaged in a beautiful Chesley Bonestell adorned gatefold package with two sets of extensive notes! Sun Ra. Exotica. Incongruous? Listening to the 25 tracks herein will showcase that Sun Ra was, indeed, an Exoticat of sorts, albeit in his own unique way, of course. That Sun Ra hasn't been celebrated in Exotica circles is understandable. Though many collectors are fans of both, at cocktail soirees Ra has never seemed to make the cut. This album aims to change that! While Sun Ra never made an "Exotica record," such tracks are mixed in his LPs alongside idiosyncratic space jazz, post-bop, electronic freakouts, and his other sonic experiments. Never an easy categorical fit, anyone who says "File Under: Jazz" doesn't understand the stylistic breadth of Sun Ra's recorded legacy. It's a rhapsodic pandemonium of Afro-centric rhythms, Latin beats, ostinato grooves, and unissued tunes!

Third Man Pressing in a sturdy high gloss package with an unearthed Ra photo and a stunning cover by the "father of modern space art!" Includes two sets extensive liners written by Irwin Chusid and Brother Cleve (of Combustible Edison)! This 3-LP of Irwin Chusid-curated Ra is for the cocktail-jetpack-jetset!

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