As the Sun Ra Arkestra prepares for a performance, a casual observer might not be able to tell who leads the band. Without their namesake there to provide direction, the players share responsibilities. Percussionist Elson Nascimento serves as band manager, making sure things are in order for the show. Alto saxophonist Noel Scott rifles through the briefcase filled with music, pulling out possible selections for the evening’s two sets.
“‘Sunology,’ ‘Big John Special,’ ‘Sleepy Time Gal,'” he says. “We haven’t played ‘Sophisticated Lady’ in a long time.”
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