It is a matter of contention as to which musician actually said: "writing about music is like dancing about architecture" (i.e it can't, or shouldn't, be done). Whoever uttered the line, though – and it's usually credited to Frank Zappa or Elvis Costello – it is pertinent when attempting to dissect the irresistable space-jazz of the Sun Ra Arkestra.

Without slipping into hyperbole, the set the flamboyantly-dressed 11-piece band performed in Lewes often defied description. The Arkestra are carrying the creative fire of their former leader Sun Ra, the Alabama-born pioneer who died in 1993. Two years later, Marshall Allen took the reins.

The 92 year-old was calling the shots in Lewes last night, commanding his bandmates in fairly direct fashion in between frenzied bursts of saxophone. The controlled chaos of his playing reflected the band's approach in general; a steady, propulsive rhythm, driven by double bass, underpinned the free-form jazz stylings of the numerous brass and woodwind musicians.

Special mention to singer Tara Middleton, whose rich vocal comingled with that of Allen to great effect. Lyrics such as "space is the place" and "21st century" reveal a fairly vague thematic approach, but the words aren't the point; the way they hung around the enthralling tempo changes and brass squalls was a joy to behold.

It shouldn't have been a surprise given the multi-skilled performers on display, but the Arkestra's sound was more diverse than this reviewer expected. They swung from fairly conventional jazz to sprawling psychedelic wig-outs to smooth soul numbers.

The group aren't above putting emphasis on the performance aspects, either – the sight of three of the members snaking their way through the audience in a conga line was one highlight among many. Although it is difficult to portray the scintillating performance through words, the night will remain etched in the memory of all those present for some time.

Sun Ra Arkestra play at Lewes Con Club tonight and tomorrow night. The gigs are hosted by Dictionary Pudding and Brighton Alternative Jazz Festival.