(EMAILWIRE.COM, July 31, 2009 ) CHICAGO, IL - Musicians have been openly slapping mainstream American politics across the face since the 1960s, but connections between music and politics, particularly political expressions in music, can be traced back through the ages. This expression can come in many forms, utilizing anti-establishment or protest themes, including anti-war songs or employing pro-establishment ideas, such as national anthems, patriotic songs, and even political campaigns. What truly separates this style of music from many other types is the clarity of the message. Ambiguity goes out the window, and the specific political message is blatantly stated for all the world to hear. Despite the potential for the alienation of fans that may not agree with their views, musicians seem more than willing to enter the political boxing match. Everyone from Bruce Springsteen to Toby Keith are joining in to tackle some of the country's most controversial issues.
Meet the newest addition to the political music family, The Circle View. Rapidly emerging from the windy city of Chicago, The Circle View proclaims a modern blend of other notable contentious musicians like The Jimi Hendrix Experience, The Police, Foo Fighters, Rage Against the Machine, Audioslave, Radio Head, Pearl Jam, and even Sevendust. Since political music is meant to be heard by the people, it is often meant to be popular. The Circle View is no exception, using a mix of guitar-driven rock, electronics and lyrics inspired by headlines.
Forming in winter 2008, FREELANCE (founder, vocals, guitar, keyboards, and production), Dominic Doria (bass guitar, background vocals), Tom Howell (guitar) and Paul Bauer (drums) joined forces and embarked on their journey to change the world. The band immediately set their objective on completing a full-length album. The Dither Age released July 8, 2009 with a successful release party July 10th at the legendary Chicago venue the Elbo Room. One lucky fan even walked away with FREELANCE’s guitar as a parting souvenir from the historic night. From the band’s blog, “…we really tried to push the limits of spontaneity uniting us and the fans in what was a genuinely special moment.”