INTERVIEW with PHIL CIRCLE
by
Adela M. Brito | Age: 37 | New York City
As a supporter of the independent musician, it was refreshing to catch Phil Circle’s acoustic performance at the legendary CBGB’s in New York City’s East Village this summer. He performed a set of about ten songs of his own composition and a cover of David Bowie’s “Ashes to Ashes.” Mr. Circle’s originality lies in the listener’s inability to match his music to just one genre.
With every song, his vocals and his guitar added a little more blues, a little more folk, or little more rock ‘n’ roll to the mix. He started his performance with “No Cover Charge,” which segued into “Surreal Life.” “Down to the Sea” and “Afterlife,” followed. These two songs are, according to Circle, some of his as well as audiences’ favorites.
The highlights for me, however, were “Halfway Down,” “It’s Only You,” and “Roger Charlie.” These three songs are quite different from one another, so much that they don’t seem to be performed by the same artist. It’s that quality that makes me like them more, as well as emphasizing Circle’s ability to cross voice and instrumental stylings with such fluidity.
Throughout Circle’s performance, I was reminded of another artist but couldn’t figure out whom. Upon further thought though, I did manage to make an instrumental connection to the Stray Cats and a vocal connection to Jim Morrison, but there might be others. The immediacy and strength in his voice made me feel like I’d heard it before, and that, to me, makes his music quite comforting.
I was able to speak to Phil Circle after his performance and get further insight into his music. And here’s what the singer/songwriter/guitarist had to say.
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When did you learn to play guitar and do you play any other instruments?
I started playing guitar when I was thirteen. My mother is a classical musician and I learned to play piano and read music from her when I was five or six. The guitar is the instrument I’ve stuck with and enjoy the most.
What music did you listen to growing up and what music influenced you the most?
I am the youngest of six children, so I listened to whatever my siblings listened to – The Beatles, Rolling Stones, and other classic rock groups. Also, because of my mom I was exposed to classical music. It was The Who, David Bowie, and Eric Clapton and their musical innovations that had a great impact on me. I enjoy all kinds of music though.
Where did you grow up and did it influence your musical tastes and musical career?
I grew up in the Chicago area and I feel it did have an effect on my becoming a musician. I was drawn to all sorts of music, mainly the blues.
Tell me about the first song you composed.
My first song came after a breakup. I couldn’t express myself clearly enough with words, but I was able to express my feelings in music. That song wasn’t recorded, but it was a starting point for becoming a songwriter and singer.
What other life experiences have influenced your music?
A lot of my life experiences turn up in my music. Extreme emotions, both happy and sad, have influenced me. If it’s a difficult thing, like divorce, I believe in turning poison into medicine and taking away something positive from the experience.
Which songs are you most proud of?
I am proud of “Afterlife,” “Down to the Sea,” and “Sanctuary.” The audiences seem to like those songs as well.
What covers do you enjoy performing?
I’ve recorded Bob Dylan’s “Make You Feel My Love.” I do some Bowie, and I even put my own twist on the Bee Gee’s “How Deep is Your Love.”
What makes your music different and original?
I think the way I mix genres and just play what I feel makes me different. The stories I tell and the emotions I express in my music are all different, so if it comes out as a blues, rock, or folk song, then that’s okay.
Could you tell me a little bit about your tattoos? The heart with the musical notes is clear, how about some of the others?
Phillip is my 7 year-old son’s name, Amor Fati translates to “love your fate,” and the wolf paw is a Native American symbol, which means “one who has been.” I believe that you should embrace your fate, whether it is to be a songwriter or anything else. I have been to many places and through many experiences, and that comes out in my songs.
Those symbols seem to tell a lot about your personality. You’re a guy who loves music, family and sharing your experiences through your songs, am I right?
Yes. What you see is what you get, and these passions make me who I am and what I put forth in my music.
It was great talking with you. I’m looking forward to listening to your CD and seeing you perform next time you’re in New York City.
Or if you’re in Chicago, you can catch one of my many performances around town.
For more information on this talented musician, his music, and performances, visit www.PhilCircle.com.