"A lot of our songs involve the theme of finding empowerment around choosing to be by yourself"

We spoke with Michelle of the up and coming Dutch by way of Brighton band, CIEL, shortly before their showcase performance at Eurosonic. Signed to the Blood Red Shoes imprint, Jazz Life, 2023 was a good year in terms of raising their profile, and though Michelle will not be drawn on what we can expect in terms of releases this year, new material is on the way. And, in case you needed to know, chunky knit jumpers are the only way to go. CIEL’s most recent EP, Rather Be Alone, released in November of last year – takes in themes of isolation, dips in confidence and needing to occasionally recharge the social battery, and Michelle reveals how it is taking to the stage as the front-person of an alt-rock band. Michelle is great company throughout this first part of our two-part chat. Check it out.