CIEL (Album Reviews Part 2)

CIEL – Rather Be Alone (EP/2023) Description : ‘With members hailing from the Netherlands, Spain and the UK, indie-rock trio CIEL eventually met on the south coast of England, where they distilled their different experiences and influences into a grunge-pop guise. Straddling the creative baggage of three countries, without really feeling like they belong to any of them, CIEL’s music has a quality that is both tenacious and fresh, dark and sometimes quietly glorious. Drawing influences from garage rock, gothic and shoegaze, the band’s forthcoming work (produced by Steven Ansell of Blood Red Shoes) reflects a darker, grittier direction, while retaining their well-established melodic pop essence.

CIEL’s DIY work ethic shines through in every aspect of their work. Early on, the band caught the attention of BBC 6’s Steve Lamacq, who included them as featured artists on his show. They went on to receive radio airplay in the UK and US (BBC 6 Music, KEXP, WFUV, BBC Introducing, Amazing Radio) and loyal support from online publications such as CLASH Magazine, Under The Radar and Earmilk. The trio quickly thrived in the south of the UK, supporting Penelope Isles, Sasami and She Drew The Gun, as well as headlining shows in London and Brighton. ’Whether it’s this EP or the other one called ‘Make It Better’, CIEL know how to make excellent music.

A clever blend of Indie, Indie Rock, Goth, Alternative Rock, Shoegaze…This powerful music electrifies us from the very first notes. An incendiary trio!Energetic or soaring, fans of these genres derived from Rock will be able to find and draw what they want from the amazing creativity of this incredible band.I’d definitely go and see them live if they came to my area. Yes, I know Steven Ansell well, as Blood Red Shoes is one of my favourite bands of all time.One of the best duos of the 2000s, without a doubt. There really is the same energy in both bands.

My Rating

CIEL – Make It Better EP

The exact same!

My Rating