Circles Around The Sun

Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of music is Circles around the Sun?

Circles Around The Sun is known for their innovative blend of instrumental rock music that fuses elements of psychedelic rock, funk, jazz, and improvisational jam band styles. Established initially as a project to create intermission music for the Grateful Dead's Fare Thee Well concerts, Circles Around The Sun has evolved into a full-fledged band with a unique sound. Their music is characterized by groovy basslines, spacey guitar melodies, and dynamic rhythms, creating an immersive listening experience that's both nostalgic and forward-thinking. The band's compositions often feature extended instrumental jams, blending classic rock influences with modern electronic textures. Circles Around The Sun appeals to fans of improvisational music and psychedelic soundscapes, making them a staple in the contemporary jam band scene. Whether you're searching for chill background music or intricate, mind-bending instrumentals, Circles Around The Sun offers a sonic journey that captures the essence of exploratory rock and groove-based jams.

Who is the new guitarist in Circles Around the Sun?

The new guitarist for Circles Around The Sun is John Lee Shannon. Following the tragic passing of founding guitarist Neal Casal in 2019, the band sought to honor his legacy while continuing to evolve their sound. John Lee Shannon officially joined Circles Around The Sun in 2022, bringing fresh energy and creativity to the group. Shannon is known for his versatile guitar skills and has seamlessly integrated into the band's psychedelic and improvisational style. With his background in various musical genres and a deep appreciation for the band's roots, John Lee Shannon has helped Circles Around The Sun continue to push boundaries and captivate audiences with their dynamic live performances and studio recordings. Fans of the band have welcomed Shannon's contributions, which have helped maintain the group's signature sound while also exploring new musical territories.

Who is the female singer in Circles Around the Sun?

As of 2024, Circles Around The Sun is primarily an instrumental band and does not have a permanent female singer. The group's music typically focuses on instrumental compositions that showcase the talents of its members through extended jams and complex arrangements. While the band has occasionally collaborated with guest vocalists for special projects or live performances, there is no regular female singer who performs or records with Circles Around The Sun. Their reputation is built on their ability to create rich, textured soundscapes without the need for lead vocals, placing the emphasis on musicianship and improvisation. If you're attending a Circles Around The Sun concert or listening to their albums, you can expect an immersive, instrumental rock experience rather than traditional vocal-driven songs.

Is Circles around the Sun a jam band?

Yes, Circles Around The Sun is widely regarded as a jam band. The group was originally conceived to create instrumental intermission music for the Grateful Dead's Fare Thee Well concerts in 2015, making improvisation and exploratory jamming central to their identity from the start. Circles Around The Sun's performances are characterized by lengthy, free-flowing musical passages, a hallmark of the jam band genre. Their concerts often feature unique setlists and extended improvisations that can differ significantly from night to night, encouraging fans to attend multiple shows for new experiences each time. While their music is rooted in rock, the band blends elements of funk, jazz, and psychedelic sounds, appealing to a broad audience of jam band enthusiasts. Circles Around The Sun's ability to seamlessly fuse genres and create spontaneous musical moments cements their status as a jam band in the modern music scene.

Who is in circles around the sun?

The current lineup of Circles Around The Sun features a talented group of musicians dedicated to pushing the boundaries of instrumental rock and jam music. The members are Adam MacDougall (keyboards), Dan Horne (bass), Mark Levy (drums), and John Lee Shannon (guitar). Adam MacDougall, formerly of The Black Crowes, brings soulful keyboard textures and synth-driven melodies. Dan Horne, a versatile bassist and producer, anchors the band with funky, groove-laden basslines. Mark Levy delivers dynamic drum patterns and rhythmic intricacies, while John Lee Shannon, the newest member, adds innovative guitar work and fresh creative energy. Together, the quartet crafts expansive, improvisational soundscapes that have become the signature of Circles Around The Sun. Their collective backgrounds in diverse musical projects contribute to the group's evolving sound, making each performance a unique auditory adventure for new and longtime fans alike.