CIEL finds balance on their new album ‘Call Me Silent’

Since forming, CIEL has carved out a distinctive space in the UK alternative scene, earning acclaim for their immersive sound and introspective lyricism. Their music explores themes os self-discovery, identity, and human connection, capturing both the melancholy and euphoria of modern life.

Crafting a unique blend of moody indie rock, shoegaze, goth and post-punk/new wave, CIEL weaves together ethereal melodies with a dark, driving energy. Fronted by Dutch-born singer and songwriter Michelle Hindriks, the band evolved into a duo in the studio with the addition of drummer Tim Spencer. CIEL’s sound is both atmospheric and urgent. Heavy guitars, pulsing basslines, and driving rhythms providing the backdrop for Hindriks’ haunting yet intimate vocals. Think of a sound that sits somewhere between the hazy allure of Slowdive, the urgency of Wolf Alice, and the brooding cool of The Cure. Ethereal yet punchy, nostalgic yet fresh.

Having toured extensively and gained strong support from platforms such as BBC Radio 6 Music, BBC Radio 1, Clash, and DIY, the band continues to push their sound forward. After two Eps and having toured the EU with Blood Red Shoes, in December 2024, CIEL joined The Jesus and Mary Chain of their full UK tour, further cementing their place as one of Brighton’s most exciting rising acts.

As a kid, Michelle got diagnosed with being on the autistic spectrum, but through misconceptions about autism she never really gave this much thought until she met a lot of autistic women in Brighton. She went through a personal transition, as she found a community in Brighton where she can actually be herself and flourish. Through this transition it became clear that even when you’re on the spectrum and being more introverted, doesn’t mean you can’t make loud distorted music with striking images to express yourself. It shows introverted people like to party and play live too, even though they might just need some more time to recover from the impulses. It enhances the art and shows another side of how a human being can be, which is a fruitful source of creativity.