Russian Circles at Slay, Glasgow

Chugging post-metal icons of doom, Russian Circles, make their return to the UK as part of their month-long European tour, accompanied by fellow Chicago natives REZN.

On October 30th, both bands took to the stage at Glasgow’s basement venue, Slay. Known for its dark, close-quarter setting, Slay’s atmosphere couldn’t have been more suited to the wall of amps and pedals assembled on stage.

HIWATT amp heads and towering cabs dominated the low-rise platform, barely waist-high and sans barrier, with the audience adjusting their earplugs unison as REZN opened. Now labelmates with Russian Circles under Sargent House, REZN’s sound—anchored by their new album Burden—unfolded in a cosmic blend of spacey synths, saxophone, and heavy drops, creating a mood as immersive as it was intense.

When Russian Circles took the stage, they sound like seasoned juggernauts, raising the stakes with each track despite being just a three-piece. The crowd stood transfixed, many closing their eyes, caught in the band’s hypnotic pull. Closing their 80-minute set with Mlàdek, Russian Circles shook the crowd from their trance, sparking cheers, head-banging, and even a small circle pit. True to their quiet confidence, the band left the stage as they entered—without a word, leaving the audience buzzing, eyes wide-open and with their jaws to the floor.