Metal Anarchy

Time for the next edition of Metal Anarchy’s “new music showcase,” the feature where I introduce you to bands that readers of this site may find interesting. This time I have an exclusive Q&A with Strange Circuits.

METAL ANARCHY: Tell me a little about your band:

STRANGE CIRCUITS: Strange Circuits started about 1979-80; we were the first band released by Wax Trax records, with the record Industrial Living. We were a Synth Rock New Wave and Industrial combination trio. We had Synthesizers and a guitar like instrument called the Chapman Stick, which allowed me to play the guitar parts and the bass lines simultaneously. We played just about every Chicago Punk and New Wave club in the city I also played as Strange Circuits for a while in Holland, but at this time Strange Circuits is a solo act. I hope to do something’s that will take solo performance a bit farther than the norm in the present Strange Circuits iteration. My thoughts are always on change and what’s new. I think of concepts that will give my act the edge over competition all the time. The basis for Strange Circuits today is the use of technology and minimalism. How can I pack as much tech into a small minimalist package to provide as much entertainment at a cost that my audience and I can afford.

METAL ANARCHY: Who are your main influences?

STRANGE CIRCUITS: Early UK synth groups along with punk rock bands from the 70’s. Synth pop groups from the 80’s and experimental advant guarde music and German rock / punk groups also. The industrial sound of Chicago at the time Strange Circuits started also had an influence. It’s always a little odd to say what influenced you because it becomes a part of you and you might not notice the influence till years later. So whatever influenced you it’s easier for others to see and say that. But I like electronic music in all it’s forms EDM, BDM etc, etc. As a kid growing up in the city of Chicago I was exposed to all kinds of music. Chicago had a huge music scene at that time.

METAL ANARCHY: What is your latest release and why should readers of this site check it out?

STRANGE CIRCUITS: I don’t have a new release at this moment but feel free to check out the Strange Circuits YouTube video channel, Our Facebook page and our website for the latest information. You will find experimental and live videos on our YouTube channel. This will give you an idea of what Strange Circuits is about. The focus for Strange Circuits today is on live performance and touring. I know that sounds old school but it still works for me. The old saying is still true: you have to see it to believe it. I took some time out last year to do some recording in London and I think people will be surprised at the results. I made a number of improvements as far as sound arrangements and architecture.

METAL ANARCHY: What can people expect when they go to your live shows?

STRANGE CIRCUITS: They can expect an exciting performance of man vs. machine and stream of conscience spoken word lyrics all within a solo performance. I try to improve and perfect my performance everyday learning from every performance what works and what doesn’t, and that’s a tough thing to do when you’re a solo artist. I want to present to the audience something that’s creative, original and professional from my body movements down to my selection of sounds for every song. I believe that you have to respect anyone who comes to see you with the best show possible. I still love meeting new people and getting to know my fans.

METAL ANARCHY: Where do you see the project heading in 5 years?

STRANGE CIRCUITS: Maybe expand the size of the group to do a larger format with more improvisation. It’s difficult as a solo act to constantly come up with creative ideas every day. It’s a little easier when you have others to bounce ideas and concepts off of them. I also understand that there are good things about being solo artist like no arguments and less confusion. I have plenty of concepts that I would like to try with more vocals and more instruments. I do miss the social aspects of being with other people. I travel the world meeting new people and I’m being influenced by what I see. People in different environments and countries that I meet have an effect on you, so there is always change even if you are not aware of it.

‘Strange Circuits’, a film about Rodney Bakerr by Bad Friday Pictures, is due for release in late 2019.