Jackson Free Press

Circus of the Seed is a Frankenstein set loose in the streets of Jackson. No, they are not out to get you, and they are not looking for a bride. Simply put, they are a creation unlike anything you have ever seen or heard before. Not fitting into any one musical genre, Circus of the Seed is the product of four very different guys who stitch together elements of jazz, rock and funk in a way that would make even Mary Shelley proud."We try to make it so that all of the people around here can enjoy our music—any age group, any clique," says Stephen Phillips, trumpet player and singer.

With Phillips bringing a reggae influence, bassist Josh Taylor's indie rock, guitarist Jason Daniel's classical music and classic rock, and drummer Jarad Wilson adding a funk rhythm, Circus of the Seed is eclectic. It's hard to go to one of their shows and not hear at least one song that you like.

A combination of two former bands, the name "Circus of the Seed" sums up what the band is and what they try to achieve. Think crazy, clownish, on-stage antics. Think growth.

While the guys who comprise Circus of the Seed take their music seriously, they make a point to not take themselves too seriously and to keep their music fun. Believing that modern music—or at least radio music—has become too much of the "same rhythm, same voice, same image," Circus of the Seed strives to plant a seed of growth in the music scene of today. "We're just trying to create something of substance and feeling, because if we don't feel it, then nobody will," they all agree.

For Circus of the Seed, music is not just a weekend hobby; it is a lifestyle and a reason to live. Native Jacksonians, they love their hometown's growing sense of community and the fact that all of the artists support each other. The members of Circus of the Seed do not lament the lack of big-name concerts in Jackson. Rather, they credit this absence as a source of opportunity in exploring local bands and forcing themselves to be creative.

Circus of the Seed has entered a period where their dreams and goals have actually begun to manifest, the band members say. Having created their Web site, www.circusoftheseed.com, and lined up a recording deal with the new local studio Dreamtime Productions, Circus of the Seed hope they are on their way to more widespread recognition.

If you want to experience the music of four life-long friends who have fun with what they love to do, a Circus of the Seed show is a must. On Oct. 30, Circus of the Seed will be at their wackiest, spookiest best at the Fenian's Halloween Party.