Photos and words by Debi Del Grande
With minimal lighting that creates a magical ambiance, it helps one completely focus on the flow of the music that is Russian Circles. A band that draws other musicians out to hear them live. A group of dedicated fans drove up from Palm Springs, one adorning a Russian Circles’ shirt she made. I’m sure the band was pleased with the gift certificate to In-n-Out she gave them.
With Mike Sullivan on his custom Les Paul and pedals galore, Dave Turncrantz in almost complete darkness as he held his drumsticks like Samurai swords (with grace, yet force when needed), and Brian Cook working the bass, keyboards and baritone guitar (did you know he just self-published a novel?) Russian Circles was worth the long long wait since they last played LA.
Aaron Turner (founder of Hydra Head Records, co-owner of Vacation Vinyl, guitarist/vocalist of Isis, and countless other creative outlets) and his partner-in-crime, Faith Coloccia are Mamiffer and were a beautiful segue into Russian Circles. Their haunting music with Coloccia’s angelic vocals soothes the soul.

Russian Circles’ Setlist:
Deficit
Carpe
309
Harper Lewis
1777
Station
Geneva
Mlàdek
Death Rides a Horse
Encore:
Youngblood