Every Memorial Day Weekend, the world of dance music converges on Detroit to pay homage to the city’s long heritage and musical traditions. Deep in the underground a party called Excursions draws people from all walks of life for it’s annual Memorial Day event; to celebrate dance music and her culture. The party is the brainchild of long time Chicago DJs Cordell Johnson and James Vincent.
Excursions was created in Chicago spring of 2010 by the duo to give themselves a creative outlet in which they could curate an event according to their vision. Johnson says it’s simple, unpretentious atmosphere, fine tuned sound, and DJs who can play anything. The aesthetic gives for a party only found in the midwest, with lost inhibitions, and music so far off the radar you cannot help but move.
At the time the party was created Johnson says Chicago was at a low point for soulful house music. He and Vincent saw an opportunity to fill a void, and that is what they did. Staying true to their vision and sound Excursions has made a deep impact on the Midwest underground. In doing so their event has become a pillar which people far and wide look to them for inspiration.
Excursions Detroit was born from their concept in Chicago. It could not have been at a more opportune time as well. Johnson had started out hosting events with Detroit’s legendary DJ Rick Wilhite during DEMF. Wilhite started to receive bookings from other promoters. This left Johnson on the sidelines waiting. Knowing he could play and had his own vision he decided to take a shot at hosting his own affair.
Partnering with local Detroit DJ’s Marcellus Pittman, Taz of Gruv Detroit, and Kevin Dysard of Got Mixes. The team came up with a concept that had filled a large void and has now become easily one of the most anticipated parties of Movement weekend. The group’s back to basics approach of hosting their event has proved to be highly successful. It has now become recognized as one of the parties of the festival for soulful underground dance music.
2018’s edition they are not holding back, delivering yet another stacked night and morning of solid dance music. On the bill this year are two talented live PA’s, Hieroglyphic Being and Radius, from Chicago. Both artist’s music runs to the obscure but always soulful. Likewise, Excursions residents Marcellus Pittman, Taz, Loftsoul aka Uchikawa, Cordell Johnson, and James Vincent will provide an atmosphere that is untouched by most events Movement weekend.
With years of experience between the five of them, there is no wonder the level of energy is so high when they begin to tag back and forth. Their versatility, range, and depth of music allows them to take the audience on a journey between disco, funk, soul, techno, house, and back again. The minute you embark on this ride you will realize you are on an Excursion.
The event takes place Sunday May 27, 2018 at Baltimore Gallery 314 East Baltimore Ave Detroit, MI 48202. Admission is $20.00 before midnight and $15.00 with and Excursions t-shirt. From 10pm until 6am, dress to sweat because this one is going hot and heavy all night.
https://www.residentadvisor.net/events/1069797