Singles Volume 2 (The Definitive 45s Collection 19621991) by Sun Ra captures the astonishing breadth of the Arkestra's later-era creativity, packaging together rare singles that had previously existed only in the orbit of devoted collectors. This second volume continues the work of reclaiming and reintroducing some of the most obscure and eclectic corners of Sun Ras discography. The collection charts an unpredictable journey through cosmic jazz, proto-funk, spoken word, R&B, and avant-garde experimentation, all of it guided by Ras ever-expanding vision of sound and space.

The strength of this set lies not only in the music itself but in the contextual richness that surrounds it. With remastered audio, extensive liner notes, and reproductions of original artwork, the compilation stands as both a scholarly document and a joyful listening experience. Singles like "Love in Outer Space" and "The Sky Is A Sea Of Darkness When There Is No Sun" reveal a deep well of melodic innovation and philosophical inquiry. This release offers listeners a time-bending view into Sun Ras evolving mythology, one 45 at a time.

Reviews

"Everything, whats here, is absolutely essential." AllMusic

As with the first volume the collection is hugely varied spoken word recitations and some of his R&B recordings unpredictable vehicles for Ras music Boomkat

The set contains much of Ras more accessible work, making it an excellent (and very generous) introduction for newcomers, but theres also plenty of material that mightve escaped notice from longtime fans. MusicCritic

If its even possible to traverse the vast Sun Ra universe on board a single starship, then Strut Records new compilation offers a compellingly sturdy vessel. Pitchfork

A compilation can only be as good as the artist(s) within it. This is incredible. Drowned In Sound

A1 Space Loneliness
A2 State Street
A3 The Blue Set
A4 Big City Blues
B1 A Blue One
B2 Orbitration In Blue
B3 Hell #1 (A.K.A Out There A Minute)
B4 Tell Her To Come On Home
B5 I'M Making Believe
C1 The Bridge
C2 Rocket #9
C3 Blues On Planet Mars
C4 Saturn Moon
C5 Journey To Saturn
C6 Enlightenment
D1 I'M Gonna Unmask The Batman
D2 The Perfect Man
D3 Love In Outer Space
D4 Mayan Temple
D5 Sky Blues
E1 Disco 2021
E2 Rough House Blues
E3 Cosmo-Extensions
E4 Quest
E5 Outer Space Plateau
E6 Sometimes I'M Happy
F1 Nuclear War
F2 On Jupiter / Cosmo Drama (Prophetika 1)
F3 Cosmo Drama (Prophetika 2)
F4 I Am The Instrument