Dave Turncrantz, drummer and founding member of Russian Circles, plays a central role in one of the most respected instrumental post‑metal trios from Chicago, Illinois. He co‑founded the band with guitarist Mike Sullivan, and their collaborative approach has driven the band’s critically acclaimed sound — melodic yet intense instrumental music built on careful dynamics, texture, and rhythm.
Turncrantz’s drumming is known for its clarity and expressive power, often delivered from a relatively minimal drum setup that emphasizes feel and nuance over excess. He brings a meticulous understanding of each component’s sonic possibilities to the instrument, shaping performances that anchor Russian Circles’ evolving soundscapes.
With Russian Circles, Turncrantz has toured globally and recorded multiple albums, blending expansive melodies with propulsive rhythms. The band is currently completing the final tour dates for their Gnosis album cycle in late 2025, including U.S. dates with Pelican and scheduled European shows in spring 2026. Turncrantz is also actively contributing to new material, with the band preparing a ninth studio album for release around 2026.
In addition to his principal work with Russian Circles, Turncrantz’s broader influence extends through interviews and feature discussions about his creative process, gear choices, and role in helping the band craft compositions that balance aggression with nuance.
Gear:
Ludwig drums, Istanbul Agop cymbals, Pro Mark sticks, Remo drumheads, Trick Drum pedals, Porter & Davies triggers and hardware.
Sources: Russian Circles official website, Remo artist page, Reverb News interview, Equipboard gear listing, Consequence.net, TheMosh.net, MetalInjection.net
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Update 1/18/26