For over two decades, Aaron Koslow, known professionally as Elusive, has been a quiet force, continually redefining the contours of independent music. On September 24, 2021, he unveils *Excursions*, his latest album, a compelling testament to his relentless artistic evolution and a pivotal addition to his expansive catalog....
For over two decades, Aaron Koslow, known professionally as Elusive, has been a quiet force, continually redefining the contours of independent music. On September 24, 2021, he unveils *Excursions*, his latest album, a compelling testament to his relentless artistic evolution and a pivotal addition to his expansive catalog.
From the gritty experimentalism of late 1990s Los Angeles hip-hop, where he honed his craft on analog equipment and Akai MPCs, Elusive has meticulously navigated a path towards the sophisticated realms of jazz-inflected electronica. *Excursions* embodies this profound journey, showcasing his unique ability to bridge the raw energy of sample-based production with the refined artistry of live instrumentation. It’s a sound forged in the crucible of the LA underground, refined through years of innovation at iconic nights like Low End Theory.
Drawing deep inspiration from timeless jazz masterpieces like John Coltrane’s *A Love Supreme* and Miles Davis’s *Bitches Brew*, Elusive’s sound has progressively embraced more intricate melodies and organic textures. This album further solidifies his transition from a master beat-maker to a fully-fledged musician, weaving an improvisational ethos into his electronic tapestry. Expect flourishing rhythms and dynamic soundscapes that reflect his deepening jazz influence, a hallmark lauded in previous works.
Across his extensive catalog of over 25 releases, Elusive has consistently defied easy categorization, seamlessly merging neo-soul with moody electronic textures, and pivoting back to the raw beat-tape energy of his roots. *Excursions* continues this tradition, presenting a forward-leaning type of arrangement that pushes musical boundaries, whether crafting atmospheric collages or driving, intricate grooves. His signature blend is not merely fusion; it's a unique sonic language, a testament to an uncompromising dedication to innovation.
Through his unwavering adaptability and expansive vision, Elusive has cemented his legacy as a trailblazer. *Excursions* is a powerful continuation of his quest for musical discovery, an album that bridges the gap between hip-hop, electronica, and jazz, while embodying the adventurous spirit of the LA underground where creative exploration truly thrives.