Fans of Sun Ra—the legendary keyboardist, composer, arranger and Arkestra leader who left the planet on May 30, 1993—remain appreciative that his music continues to be vital through the love and persistence of a select number of dedicated musicians. One such group is Detroit’s Planet D Nonet, led by producer, percussionist and Eastlawn Records owner RJ Spangler. The Nonet’s featured special guest for Rays of the Sunday, trumpeter Michael Ray, performed and recorded extensively during his 15 years with Sun Ra and continues to work with the Arkestra. When Ray lived in New Orleans, he also formed a satellite band called Michael Ray and the Cosmic Krewe and was featured on OffBeat’s October 1994 cover.

All the right components are in place for this ensemble to successfully evoke the spirit of Ra on his compositions such as the emotional “That’s How I Feel.” When Ray’s trumpet pairs with the congas of another guest, Akunda Hollis, the result gives it an unexpected soft texture. “Rocket Number Nine,” another Ra original, offers essentials of the Sun Ra Arkestra, including some creative, free blowing by the soloists. The whole band gets involved in the group chant that was a signature of the Sun Ra Arkestra. It comes to a conclusion with the lyrics: “Take off for the planet—freedom!”

The album was recorded live in the Trinosphies gallery housed in Detroit’s Eastern Market. There, it seems, lies the problem. It sounds as if it was produced in a cavern and thus the music lacks a certain presence. It’s immediately noticeable on the opening cut, Ra’s “Where Pathways Meet” and gratefully a little less so on other cuts. Regrettable.