Circuit des Yeux’s “Halo on the Inside” Explores Personal Identity

In her latest musical venture, Haley Fohr takes her audience on a captivating journey into her innermost thoughts and feelings. The album “Halo on the Inside” by Circuit des Yeux showcases Fohr’s raw emotion and commanding presence, drawing listeners in with its dark and dramatic allure.

Fohr’s creative process for this album was deeply personal, spending eight months locked away in a basement studio in Chicago, immersing herself in late-night writing sessions. This solitary confinement allowed her to explore new sounds and delve into uncharted territory within herself. The basement became a sanctuary of creativity, providing the space she needed to reinvent her musical style and rediscover her artistic identity.

The music on “Halo on the Inside” reflects this newfound sense of beastly physicality, incorporating elements of industrial, rave, goth, and pitch-black drama. Fohr’s distinctive contralto voice, which has always possessed a theatrical and macabre quality, takes center stage, guiding listeners through a cosmic journey of self-discovery. Despite the imposing nature of the album’s themes, Fohr manages to infuse each song with an undeniable charm, making them instantly appealing to a wide audience.

The opening tracks, “Megaloner” and “Canopy of Eden,” set the tone for the album, blending dark synth textures with a pop sensibility that keeps listeners coming back for more. Fohr’s lyrical style, characterized by eerie images and thought-provoking prompts, adds depth to the album, inviting listeners to explore hidden meanings and interpretations.

As the album progresses, Fohr’s lyrics become increasingly surreal and introspective, reflecting her deep dive into her own psyche. Tracks like “Anthem of Me” and “Truth” showcase her willingness to push artistic boundaries, experimenting with different sounds and vocal techniques to convey her complex emotions. The album’s intricate arrangements, punctuated by moments of quiet intimacy and explosive energy, create a dynamic listening experience that captivates from start to finish.

In the closing track, “It Takes My Pain Away,” Fohr offers a moment of solace and reflection, enveloping listeners in a comforting embrace of sound and emotion. The album as a whole is a testament to Fohr’s artistic evolution and creative freedom, demonstrating what can be achieved when an artist is given the time and space to fully explore their craft.

“Halo on the Inside” is a masterful work that showcases the depth and complexity of Circuit des Yeux’s music. By following her creative instincts and embracing her innermost thoughts, Fohr has created an album that resonates on a profound level, inviting listeners to join her on a transformative musical journey.