Janus

Track 1 - Variety Recording Studio, NYC, between 1968 and 1970. Track 2a - Recorded mono, probably at a live performance, 1970. Track 2b - Recorded at Sun Studios, NYC, 1967 or '68 (Sun Ra solo) / Recorded at Choreographers' Workshop, NYC, 1963 (group). Track 3 - Recorded in early 1968; it is different from a live recording from 1969 previously known to discographers. Track 4 - Recorded live in NYC, early 1968. "The Invisible Shield" and "Janus" are listed as two separate tracks on the cover but are joined as one track on the disc. The credits for track 2b, credit Sun Ra with "gong or clavinet". "Sun Ra must have planned Janus as an entity in 1970 or 1971. But it was never released on LP. The first three tracks eventually appeared on one side of some obscure Saturn LP pressings; the last two are just now being issued, allowing us to hear Sun Ra's original conception for the first time." In the mid and late 1960's, Sun Ra would often quote a familiar composition as a theme just at the beginning or end of a series of free improvisations. The final 3 minutes of Joy could be more free improv., or they could move into the theme of El Is a Sound of Joy or possibly another Sun Ra tune like Tapestry from an Asteroid. (When the words to this composition are sung, the last two words are "space joy"). This CD has been remastered from the original recording tape. Background noises, such as pops, clicks or other noises have been removed as much as possible without compromising the original recording quality. Includes outer slipcase. Licensed & manufactured by 1201, Music, Inc.