The Van Halen camp has been trying to build some buzz about a possible tour, but Sammy Hagar and Michael Anthony have already jumped out in front of them this year.  The former Van Halen singer and bassist have joined up with guitarist Vic Johnson (who plays in Hagar's solo band) and drummer Jason Bonham (son of the legendary John Bonham) to form The Circle, and they've just released their first single, "Trust Fund Baby."

Let's get the weak part out of the way first.  This is not a lyrically strong song.  "Entourage going strong, hangers on hanging on, everything going wrong, trust fund baby" is not going to win any awards.  On the flip side, this group has potential.  Hagar sounds ready to go, which lends optimism for the rest of the album.   Vic Johnson is on fire, Michael Anthony comes through with his classic background vocals and harmonies, and Jason Bonham provides a driving beat to power the song.  The music is classic rock you can nod your head to, and there's always room for more of that in the world.

The band's first album, called, "Space Between," will be released on May 10.  It sounds like there will be a tour to support it this summer, so it seems even more unlikely that Anthony would be part of the rumored Van Halen reunion.  We're curious to hear the rest of the songs and also wondering what you think of the first track.  Drop us a line at [email protected], or comment on our Facebook page with your thoughts!

Are you ready for this?  (pic via chicagotribune.com)