Russian Circles

Formed in Chicago in 2004, Russian Circles craft an instrumental post-rock rooted in post-metal, built on contrasts between atmospheric textures, rhythmic tension and heavy climaxes. The band began around guitarist Mike Sullivan and bassist Colin DeKuiper, soon joined by drummer Dave Turncrantz; after DeKuiper’s departure, Brian Cook took over on bass and stabilized the trio. From Enter (2006) through Station (2008) and Geneva (2009), Russian Circles refined a vocal-free songwriting approach focused on dynamics, repetition and the gradual shifting of motifs. Empros (2011) and Memorial (2013) broadened that palette further, the latter featuring a rare vocal cameo from Chelsea Wolfe. Guidance (2016), Blood Year (2019) and Gnosis (2022) continued this trajectory, emphasizing the interplay between near-minimal precision and massive impact. Anchored in experimental rock, metal and noise scenes, Russian Circles have toured with acts like Deafheaven and Cult of Luna and, over the years, established themselves as a live band wholly committed to the instrumental format.