Band

Russian Circles

Mapped through Post metal influences; 8 albums in the Staimusic archive; upcoming live dates.

Russian Circles
Biography

Russian Circles: history and sound

Russian Circles is an American three piece instrumental rock-metal band from Chicago. Mostly headlining now, in their earlier days they toured with Boris, Isis, Red Sparowes, Minus the Bear, Daughters, Coheed & Cambria, Mono, and Pelican as well as appearances at the 2006 SXSW, and 2009's Bonnaroo.
Russian Circles - The Post-Rock Legends
When it comes to the world of instrumental post-rock, Russian Circles is one of the most iconic bands that has been around for over a decade now. Based in Chicago, the trio of Mike Sullivan (guitar), Dave Turncrantz (drums), and Brian Cook (bass) has been creating mesmerizing soundscapes since their debut in 2006. With six studio albums, one live album, and an ever-growing fan base, Russian Circles has undoubtedly become one of the most influential bands in the post-rock space.
Musical Biography of Russian Circles: The band came together in 2004 and after two years, they released their first EP titled 'Upper Ninety'. It was followed by their critically acclaimed debut album 'Enter' in 2006. 'Station' (2008), 'Geneva' (2009), 'Empros' (2011), and 'Memorial' (2013) came next, and each of these albums showcased the band's evolution in sound and style. Eventually, they released their latest album 'Blood Year' in 2019. Over the years, they have also collaborated with other artists and bands, such as Chelsea Wolfe and Emma Ruth Rundle.
Music Genre of Russian Circles: Russian Circles' primary musical genre is post-rock, which is characterized by the use of varied instrumentation, textural layers, and shifts in dynamics. However, the band also incorporates elements of metal, doom, and occasionally even jazz into their music, making their sound more dynamic and distinctive.
Best Songs by Russian Circles: It would not be an understatement to say that each of Russian Circles' songs represents a unique journey, but some of their best tracks that have stood the test of time include 'Youngblood', 'Harper Lewis', '309', 'Mladek', 'Vorel', and 'Geneva'. These songs bring together the band's signature sound, which comprises of intricate guitar riffs, solid drumming, and heavy basslines, creating a perfect balance between ambiance and intensity.
Famous Concerts by Russian Circles: The band is known for their exceptional performances on stage, especially their live shows. They have toured globally and shared the stage with prominent bands such as Tool, Deafheaven, and Mastodon. One of their most remarkable concerts was at Saint Vitus bar in Brooklyn, New York, in 2013, where they played their album 'Memorial' in its entirety, backed by a stunning visual display.
A Critic of Russian Circles: Russian Circles has received universal acclaim from music critics, who have praised them for their musicianship and creativity. The band's sound has been described as post-metal, which indicates that they bring the impact of metal into the realm of post-rock. Rolling Stone magazine called them Instrumental Rock's Enthralling Masters, while Pitchfork labeled them the best instrumental band in America.
Russian Circles' music transcends the boundaries of any particular genre. Their sound is dynamic, unique, and emotionally resonant, while their live performances are nothing short of breathtaking. The band's discography is a testament to their evolution and experimentation, allowing their fans to experience the musical journeys that they embark on. It's not hard to see why Russian Circles has such a devoted following - their music has a way of getting under your skin and staying there. So the next time you're in the mood for some captivating post-rock, dive into Russian Circles' discography, and let yourself get lost in their sonic landscape.
Songs

Selected YouTube songs from our archive

Conduit
Russian Circles Conduit
Gnosis
Russian Circles Gnosis
Ó Braonáin
Russian Circles Ó Braonáin
Ghost On High
Russian Circles Ghost On High
Sinaia
Russian Circles Sinaia
Upper Ninety
Russian Circles Upper Ninety
Articles and news

Stories, updates and listening guides

Future plans

Russian Circles: next events

The Argo Milwaukee, US Buy the ticket!
Bohemian National Cemetery Chicago, US Buy the ticket!
El Club Detroit, US Buy the ticket!
Opera House Toronto, Canada Buy the ticket!
Club Soda Montreal, Canada Buy the ticket!
Royale Boston / Cambridge, US Buy the ticket!
Knockdown Center New York (NYC), US Buy the ticket!
Union Transfer Philadelphia, US Buy the ticket!
Baltimore Soundstage Baltimore, US Buy the ticket!
Cat's Cradle Durham, US Buy the ticket!
Music Farm Columbia, US Buy the ticket!
The Beacham Orlando, US Buy the ticket!
Variety Playhouse Atlanta, US Buy the ticket!
The Basement East Nashville, US Buy the ticket!
HI-FI Indianapolis, US Buy the ticket!
Delmar Hall St Louis, US Buy the ticket!
Rubber Gloves Rubber Room Dallas - Fort Worth, US Buy the ticket!
Far Out Lounge & Stage Austin, US Buy the ticket!
Walter Studios Phoenix, US Buy the ticket!
The Belasco Los Angeles (LA), US Buy the ticket!
Great American Music Hall SF Bay Area, US Buy the ticket!
McMenamins Crystal Ballroom Portland, US Buy the ticket!
The Showbox Seattle, US Buy the ticket!
Treefort Music Hall Boise, US Buy the ticket!
Metro Music Hall Salt Lake City, US Buy the ticket!
Gothic Theatre Denver, US Buy the ticket!
Slowdown Omaha, US Buy the ticket!
Varsity Theater Twin Cities, US Buy the ticket!