7/10

Over these last few years, US artist Caleb L'Etoile has established himself as one of the more prolific and inventive names on the rise. Capturing this wonderfully explorative aesthetic that blends pop sensibilities with a more adventurous approach to songwriting and production, his tenure to date has been this wildly enjoyable one that always seeks to build on what has come before. And after the 2023 EP 'Somewhere Near Your Body' introduced him as a name taking cues from the Halloween season, he is back once again to deliver another spooky offering in the form of 'I'm Always Haunted', the second of his Halloween-inspired EPs.

While the song titles would suggest a dark and brooding effort, 'I'm Always Haunted' finds itself in a far richer and more euphoric guise. Opening up with the wonderfully fun '(Let's) Do The Hollow', the EP keeps the pace and momentum ever moving forward, delivering a Halloween-infused release that doesn't bend to the conventions of tradition. Instead Caleb L'Etoile offers up one spritely and enjoyable romp after another, giving his latest batch of material this engaging appeal that perfectly reflects his positive ascension of late.

It may have come after an exceptionally busy time for him, but 'I'm Always Haunted' shows he is still brimming with plenty of fresh and exciting ideas in which to pursue. With such a firm and confident approach to his direction once again, he is definitely looking to slap a wide smile on our faces with this October delight.