 In 1984 Hopkinson replaced founding drummer, Michael, in Melbourne-based hardcore punk outfit, Vicious Circle, alongside Alby Brovedani on bass guitar and guitar (ex-Politburo), Paul Lindsay on lead vocals and Les Rumincik on lead guitar (ex-Politburo).Their early recordings include two tracks, "Blood Race" and "Police Brutality", on various artists compilation album, "Eat Your Head" (1984).The debut album, "The Price of Progress", followed in September 1985.