Experience the electrifying energy of hip-hop improv night at Elastic Arts, featuring an incredible lineup of talented artists: Isaiah Spencer, Airon Azure, JTrapBeatz, Shimere, and Jaden Esi. These multi-talented musicians hail from Chicago, known for their exceptional skills and unparalleled creativity. Join us for a night of explosive energy, mind-blowing improvisation, and boundary-pushing creativity at Elastic Arts. These exceptional artists will take you on a journey like no other, leaving you inspired, uplifted, and connected. Get ready for a night of hip-hop improv that will leave you speechless.
$15/$10 w/ Student ID - Tickets Available at the Door
Isaiah Spencer: chicago-based drummer extraordinaire
Isaiah Spencer is an extraordinary drummer who brings a unique blend of skill and creativity to the stage. With his early beginnings in church and studies with renowned educators and musicians, Isaiah has become one of the most sought-after drummers in the Chicago music scene. His versatility and musical prowess have allowed him to collaborate with esteemed artists and leave an indelible mark on the jazz community.
Isaiah's journey in music began at a young age, playing drums in church during his early years. He later attended Lincoln Park High School in Chicago, Illinois, where he further developed his musical talents and explored various genres, including jazz. This led him to study Music Performance - Percussion at Roosevelt University, gaining valuable skills and knowledge to further his music career.
His talent on the drums has led him to work with esteemed artists such as Fred Anderson, William Parker, Ernest Dawkins, and David Murray, as well as Clark Terry, Von Freeman, Curtis Fuller, and George Freeman.
His passion for education and mentorship also extends to his role as a Percussion teacher and Assistant Band Director at New Trier High School. Through his teachings, Isaiah imparts his knowledge and expertise to the next generation of aspiring musicians.
Airon Azure: A Multifaceted Artist on a Musical Journey
Airon Azure is a force in the music world, seamlessly blending the roles of vocalist, songwriter, producer, arranger, and improviser. His journey began under the nurturing influence of Piney Woods School, one of the few historically African-American boarding schools in the US. This early exposure laid the foundation for his dynamic vocal style, which has since captivated audiences across genres and borders.
From collaborations with international artists to gracing prestigious stages like the Newport Jazz Festival and the University of Chicago Smart Museum, Airon's musical footprint extends far beyond his Chicago home base. He has also touched the lives of aspiring musicians as a teaching artist with the Chicago Public Libraries through the Old Town School of Folk Music.
His ability to effortlessly improvise and harmonize sets him apart, adding a layer of spontaneity and depth to his performances. Beyond captivating live shows, Airon actively shares his artistry through self-produced, recorded music available on SoundCloud and other streaming platforms.
Driven by a passion for discovery, Airon views himself as a traveler and seeker of wisdom. He channels this quest into his music, aiming to foster understanding not only for himself but for his listeners as well. With each note he sings, each melody he crafts, Airon invites us on a journey of musical exploration and self-reflection.
JTrapBeatz: a highly talented and versatile music producer
Hailing from the vibrant music scene of the South side of Chicago, IL. with a profound passion for creating beats and a natural ear for music, JTrap has been honing his craft since his early childhood. In 1999, JTrap first discovered his love for music production while playing the "MTV Generator" game on his PlayStation 2. He would record the playback on his old tape deck, captivated by the process of making beats and sound design.
This initial spark fueled JTrap's determination to explore the world of music production further.It was in 2005 that JTrap truly immersed himself in music production when a childhood friend introduced him to the software "FL Studio." Inspired by respected producers such as Timbaland, The Neptunes, Jay Dilla, Fly LO, The RZA, Lex Luger, Mike Will Made It, and Zaytoven,
Committing himself fully to mastering his skills and refining his unique sound, over the span of two decades, JTrap has grown into a Multi-Genre Producer capable of creating a wide array of musical styles. From Trap and Hip Hop to Boom Bap, R&B, Sampled Beats, and even Pop and Jazz, JTrap's versatility knows no bounds. His meticulous craftsmanship is evident in his productions. In 2016, JTrap relocated to Los Angeles, where he collaborated with D.C. native "Chief Tunji" to produce his debut album, “Year Of Manifestation”. This project showcased JTrap's exceptional talent and marked the beginning of a promising career. Currently, JTrap has returned to his hometown of Chicago to further refine his skills and connect with emerging talent.
His 2023 album, titled Manifester Music is a testament to JTrap's deep passion, raw talent, and diverse musical abilities. With a unique blend of creativity, technical prowess, and an undeniable entrepreneurial spirit, JTrap Beatz is poised to make a lasting impact on the music industry. Whether through his own productions or collaborations with other artists, JTrap's talent and dedication ensure that his contributions will reverberate throughout the world of music.
SHIMERE :a mesmerizing artist who effortlessly merges diverse artistic mediums
Born and raised on the West Side of Chicago, Shimere began writing music at the age of 8. This multidimensional artist seamlessly weaves together diverse mediums, from captivating visual installations to evocative musical compositions. Her work reflects a profound exploration of the intersection between creativity and human experience, inviting audiences to embark on a sensory journey through the boundless realms of imagination.
Jaden Esi: an exceptional musician whose talent demands to be heard
Born and raised in Chicago, Jaden Esi is an accomplished multi-instrumentalist, showcasing mastery of the saxophone, guitar, bass, flute, piano, and drums. This versatility has made him a sought-after musician in the industry. Not only is Jaden an impressive instrumentalist, but he is also a skilled music producer and DJ, specializing in vinyl.
Jaden's talent was recognized early on, with a graduation from the prestigious Chicago High School for the Arts. Honing skills in jazz, hip hop, and various other genres have led to performances at renowned events like the Pitchfork Music Festival, where Jaden shared the stage with acclaimed group Standing on the Corner.
In addition to national performances, Jaden has embarked on international tours as a member of Angel Bat Dawid & Tha Brothahood Ensemble, gracing stages in Paris, Germany, Barcelona, and the esteemed Newport Jazz Festival.
As a composer and DJ, Jaden extends his professional expertise to artists in Atlanta, New York, and Los Angeles. With a unique approach to composition and production, Jaden has garnered attention from industry professionals and independent musicians alike.
Beyond musical pursuits, Jaden is deeply committed to education in the community, actively teaching through Music Moves Chicago. Moreover, Jaden's passion extends to curating and promoting exciting live shows and events. With impeccable taste and attention to detail, ensuring that every event he organizes creates vibrant and energetic spaces for the eclectic music scene.
Jaden Esi is an extraordinary musician, constantly pushing boundaries and evolving sound. leaving an indelible mark on the world of music.