russian circles

simply, russian circles is a three piece instrumental band from chicago. i have to admit that i always thought that an instrumental band can be indeed nice and interesting, but can't leave a really lasting impression on me. russian circles changed that belief. soft and quiet at times, but also pretty powerful parts are included in this album, which really seems to be of a piece. additionally it needs to be mentioned that the artwork is stunning. heard this music quite often lately and would love to see these guys live.

Simply, Russian Circles is a three piece instrumental band from Chicago. It would be tough to imagine that a band would be able to develop its own unique presence and innovation with such solid groundwork in the instrumental genre. However, Russian Circles does bring something new to the table. Their songs feel incredibly narrative and linear. There is no angular flash or mathematical flair. These songs stream through themes and by no means build on just one repeating idea. They are gargantuan in scope. They flow seamlessly from beautiful soft ambience to truly defined melody to massively thick heaviness with a gradual progression that never leaves you lost. Variety is no gimmick and they are a band that does not just vacillate within an achieved sonic identity. Newborns as of late last year when guitarist, Mike Sullivan and bassist, Colin DeKuiper saw their previous instrumental band, Dakota/Dakota come to a halt. With mounds of ambition and ideas still to produce they quickly contracted drummer, Dave Turncrantz who was willing to leave his residence in the St. Louis band, Riddle of Steel. Playing, practicing, and writing became relentless and incessant giving Russian Circles a maturity one would not expect from a fledgling band.

band: russiancircles.net, myspace
label: flameshovel.com
merch: indiemerchstore.com