Swedish/Middle Eastern alt-pop artist Daniella Binyamin has always captivated listeners with her vibrant, genre-blending style. However, with her latest release “Circles,” she takes a step back, offering a more intimate glimpse into her emotional landscape. The track, which is set to be the final release before her upcoming EP Without Breaking Apart (scheduled for spring 2025), marks a departure from the playful energy of her earlier singles like “Out of Fuel” and “Jungle.” Instead, “Circles” invites listeners into a world of introspection, self-doubt, and vulnerability—an experience that feels both deeply personal and universally relatable.
Binyamin herself describes the song as a return to the method of songwriting she used during her teenage years, when she would often improvise melodies and lyrics at her mother’s old piano. This raw, unfiltered approach is evident in the track’s emotional authenticity, with Binyamin’s vulnerability front and center. “Circles” delves into the complexities of self-understanding and the inner turmoil that often accompanies trying to make sense of the world and one’s place within it.
From the first notes, “Circles” envelops the listener in a sense of longing and uncertainty. The song’s opening lyrics—“In and out of circles lately / I don’t know what I’m running from”—immediately capture the essence of confusion and restlessness that Binyamin is grappling with. The imagery of being caught in cycles and not knowing the cause of one’s internal conflict speaks to a more universal experience of feeling lost or disconnected. It’s a sentiment that resonates deeply with anyone who has found themselves searching for meaning or trying to break free from patterns that seem impossible to escape.
As the track unfolds, it’s clear that the emotional complexity of “Circles” is enhanced by the song’s minimalist instrumentation. The gentle piano chords and soft acoustics create an intimate atmosphere, allowing Binyamin’s voice to remain the focal point. Her delivery is delicate yet impassioned, carrying the weight of the song’s emotional landscape. The production builds gradually, with subtle synths adding a sense of expansion and depth as the song progresses. This crescendo creates a sense of growing emotional intensity, mirroring the internal journey Binyamin is navigating.
Lyrically, the song captures the push and pull of a complicated relationship, one that seems to be both a source of comfort and uncertainty. Lines like “Through the lonely lows and high highs / I’ll go with you anywhere” suggest a deep connection and willingness to endure the ups and downs of life alongside someone else. However, there’s also an underlying sense of hesitation, a recognition that the path forward may not be as clear as it once seemed. The vulnerability Binyamin expresses in these moments is palpable, and it’s this honesty that makes “Circles” so compelling.
While “Circles” might seem like a departure from the energetic and playful sound of Binyamin’s previous work, it serves as an essential step in her artistic evolution. The track showcases her ability to evolve as both a songwriter and a performer, demonstrating that she can master not only the upbeat, infectious tunes of her earlier releases but also the quieter, more introspective moments that reveal deeper emotional truths. “Circles” is a song that invites the listener to experience Binyamin’s vulnerability in real time, offering a sense of connection that transcends the confines of music and speaks directly to the heart.
In the context of her upcoming EP Without Breaking Apart, “Circles” provides a poignant preview of what’s to come. It’s clear that Binyamin’s songwriting continues to evolve, offering a blend of personal reflection and relatable emotional depth that promises to resonate with a wide audience. With its stripped-down production and raw emotional honesty, “Circles” is a track that feels both timeless and incredibly personal—an anthem for anyone who has ever felt caught in the cycles of their own thoughts and emotions.
As Binyamin’s upcoming EP approaches, “Circles” stands as a powerful testament to her growth as an artist. It’s a song that reminds us of the complexity of the human experience and the importance of embracing the messy, imperfect parts of ourselves. Whether you’re navigating the highs and lows of a complicated relationship or simply trying to make sense of your own journey, “Circles” offers a cathartic and deeply moving soundtrack for the ride.
