Download from Bandcamp

Two decades have passed since SONS OF RA emerged onto Chicago's scene with their fusion of heavy prog, jazz, math rock, and elements of avant-garde. Initially a line-blurring experiment based on improvised music, the trio has proven that the itchings of jazz fusion aficionados and math/progressive rock/metal purists can both enjoy the same musical relief.

The band independently released four EPs since 2016, culminating with the critically acclaimed six-part suite Tropic of Cancer in 2024.

Now, SONS OF RA evolves with their full-length album debut Standard Deviation, diving deeper into roots of avant-garde jazz, fusion, math and progressive rock while maintaining a powerful metallic crunch. The album features interpretations of compositions from jazz legends Carla Bley, John Coltrane, and Don Ellis, balanced with a collection of original compositions reflecting the group’s diverse influences.

Standard Deviation was recorded and mixed by Spenser Morris (Saor, Panopticon) and mastered by Grammy Award-winning engineer Alan Douches. The cover art is a commissioned painting by Chicago-area artist Nick Gurley.

The Laser's Edge label collaborates with progressive bands like Riverside, White Willow, Knight Area, District 97 and Eloy.

Sensory targets bands working within the broad scope of progressive metal. Notable artists on Sensory include Circus Maximus, Delain, and Diablo Swing Orchestra.

Free Electric Sound is our fusion label with Mörglbl revitalizing a near dormant genre.

1. lasersedgegroup.com