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102-Year-Old Saxophonist Marshall Allen Releases New Album with Young Stars

publication · 2026-08-07

At 102 years old, saxophonist Marshall Allen has released a new album of extraordinary intensity, collaborating with musicians who are a quarter of his age. The album, titled '101 Odyssey', showcases Allen's continued vitality and creative force. Allen, a legendary figure in avant-garde jazz, is best known for his long association with the Sun Ra Arkestra, which he has led since Sun Ra's death in 1993. The new recording features a mix of seasoned improvisers and younger talents, bridging generational gaps in the jazz world. The album's title references both Allen's age and the epic journey of his musical career. Critics have praised the album for its otherworldly power, noting that Allen's saxophone playing remains as fierce and exploratory as ever. The release marks a significant moment in jazz, demonstrating that age is no barrier to artistic innovation. Allen's work continues to inspire both established musicians and newcomers, cementing his status as a living legend in contemporary music.

Key facts

  • Marshall Allen is 102 years old.
  • He has released a new album titled '101 Odyssey'.
  • The album features musicians who are a quarter of his age.
  • Allen is a saxophonist.
  • He leads the Sun Ra Arkestra.
  • The album has been described as having 'extraterrestrial power'.
  • The release was covered by Süddeutsche Zeitung.
  • Allen's career spans decades, with a legacy in avant-garde jazz.

Entities

Artists

  • Marshall Allen

Institutions

  • Sun Ra Arkestra
  • Süddeutsche Zeitung

Sources