Russian Circles

Tracklist
1. Betryal
2. Conduit
3. Gnosis

Recorded live on October 3, 2022 in Chicago, IL.

Russian Circles is
Guitar | Mike Sullivan
Bass | Brian Cook
Drums | Dave Turncrantz

Directed + Edited | Austin Peters
Director of Photography | Tom Conway
Camera Operation | Matt Tyrpin, Justin Kenney, Calla Flanagan
Audio Record + Mix | Neil Strauch
Audio Assist | Lucas Hansa, Susie McCollum , Wes Reno

From the moment they stepped out of their multiple U-Haul’s, fresh off a half-completed US tour, it was clear how seasoned the men in Russian Circles were to the rigorous load-in load-out process. It was still warm in Chicago, despite it being October. Maybe it was the weather, or maybe the fact they weren’t loading into a venue, but the cheerful nature of this band was palpable. It felt odd, in a way, to hear a band that is known for being instrumental, be so vocal. Their guitarist, Mike Sullivan, was quick to share tour stories, talk about gear, and crack jokes that invigorated his band and the room. The humans behind this loud, heavy, powerful music turned out to be (in many ways) total comedians.

During soundcheck, the amplification literally shook the studio. It’s difficult to translate how loud this band actually is without standing directly in the room. What was most impressive was their precision without the use of a click-track—a common tactic for louder bands—how clear it was that this band were masterful at listening to themselves and each other simultaneously. One breathing unit in harmony with itself.

To be this seasoned, have nearly 20 years in the game, and still be able to push the bar with this repetitive loud rock music is a feat. There have been a lot of imitators of their style, as well as an array of exciting new sounds inspired by it. Russian Circles continues to be the force to be reckoned with in their corner of the underground rock community, and demonstrates exactly what it takes to stay in and be the absolute best band they can be.