Musicians in Lockdown: Strange Circuits Interview

Electronic and industrial post-punk outfit Strange Circuits combines spoken word vocals and astral synth effects to create a bold and unique sound. Songwriter and producer Rodney Bakerr is a Fender guitar artist on the Riff Station software project, and wrote the first published music patterns for the Roland 808 and 909 drum machines. He utilizes his circuitry expertise to produce psychedelic soundscapes that accompany his poetic storytelling.

Robert Bakerr sat down with The Outer Void to talk about life in lockdown and new music:

What have you been up to during the pandemic?

Working on a new set of music, releasing my new album The Opposition. And thinking about how to approach the future, where things will be influenced more by the digital internet side of things instead of clubs. I think the virtual side of music will be a mainstay long after the Covid virus is gone. I also have had plenty of new ideas for my painting fine art projects. My artworks appear in many top museums like the Museum of the Art Institute of Chicago (SAIC).

Has the lockdown impacted your songwriting this year in any way?

Yes, no doubt. It shows how short life is and to take advantage of the now instead of putting everything off ’til tomorrow. This lockdown has shown me to take every moment as important, so there is a sense of speed and immediacy in my songs. The lockdown also gave me time to think and make improvements in my music. I had time to step back and listen from a distance and see if all the parts were working as a whole. Isolation has its benefits; it’s a time when you can get introspective on what’s important and creative in life.

What’s your favorite show you’ve ever played with Strange Circuits?

I would say Wolverhampton England at the Humming Bird Club. That night was charged with electricity from start to finish, the audience was ready to go as soon as I hit the stage. I made a lot of new fans that were open to something different and also new in sound and thought. The thing that stayed on my mind after that show was the effect it had on my mind, body and spirit. I understood why we make music in the first place, and that was to be appreciated for being an artist, musician and a creative.

If you could tour with any band/artist, who would it be?

I’m not impressed by the name or brand of a band many older bands have not improved in many years. I think many lesser-known bands are more creative, so I really don’t care so much about whom I’m touring with. Many big acts have very stubborn followers that can be unwilling to listen to something new. There are many new creative electronic and industrial groups that I find interesting at this time. There is a lot of growth happening for female groups also.

What 2020 album would you recommend to someone who believes there’s no good new music?

That’s a tough question; music is exploding on the web from everywhere. It’s not like twenty years ago before digital took over. It’s difficult for me to choose just one, but I would have to say any album by Jack White. I like his ability to mix culture and sound. He also isn’t afraid to find creative musicians who have a unique approach to playing their instruments.

What are your plans for 2021? Will you be going out to promote the new album?

I don’t know if I will be touring in 2021, but I will have a new album The Opposition. I’m still expanding my social media skills. Touring kills your time and ability for creating songs. You’re too busy surviving the tour from gig to gig. But don’t get me wrong; touring is an adventure all it’s own, and everyone should experience it.

Check out the video for album title track “The Opposition” below, and stream the record on Spotify and Apple Music!