Chris' current musical project, Universal Straight Circle, is the latest incarnation of his ongoing partnership with Jack Carrack, drummer, and Anneka Warburton, bassist.  Universal Straight Circle's music, grounded in the Grunge sound made popular by bands such as Nirvana and the Smashing Pumpkins of Seattle in the 1990's forms a basis for their sound. Add in some classical Spanish, jazz fusion and funk influences, and you have the  ingredients for the band's overall sound.
 
"More recent elements include electronic looping as well as Eastern Indian musical arrangements" says Chris, who also acts as the engineer and producer on most of the band's recorded work.

The cuts on the band's Universal Straight Circle website "Feet in Hands" and "River", were produced by Chris and recorded in England with band mates Jack and Anneka. The track aptly entitled "Vomit", spews out unbridled energy on a wave of punk riffs, and was recorded here in Sedona with the instrumental and engineering assistance of Keith Martini.
 
In a review of the 2005 demo, "I for an Eye," released under the band's previous incarnation known as "Blank Canvas," writer Mike Spall of the on line publication "Southscene," covering the music of London's South Side, states "It is like nothing I've ever heard before...unpredictable but infectious." Read Southscene Review.
 
Having already described Chris' infectious musical style let's investigate his unpredictable side.  After spending only a few days in Sedona Chris made the impulsive decision to turn his ten day vacation in to an extended stay, much to the chagrin of his band mates, friends and family.
 
Encouraged by the local response to his music, and rather frazzled by the party scene in London, Chris views Sedona as a place of personal rejuvenation. He supports his decision to stay in Sedona by stating "I hope I can bring some of the focus and energy I've found here in Sedona back to London with me." 

Chris Yaxley