Formerly known as the lead singer for rock band D’Haze, Hazel Smith, now going by the name HAZE, has proven herself to be a talent in her own right with her previous two singles, and now PopWrapped are delighted to premiere the third, titled “Skin.”

HAZE pays particular attention to the sound design and arrangements of each track she makes and shares with the world, carefully crafting each song’s sonic imprint and create a different ambience each time, which she then accompanies with artistic imagery and visuals.

Drawing inspiration from the darkness of 80’s synth-pop band Depeche Mode, 90’s industrial rockers Nine Inch Nails and newly anointed dark-pop queen Billie Eilish, HAZE not only sets a somber atmosphere through her lyricism but also by using compositional twists such as the use of tritones and unexpected modulations, making for unusual chord progressions. Switching from her trademark dreamy sights and signature neon blue locks, Haze gives us a darker side with minimalistic studio visuals to emphasize the story telling in the lyrics.

Laying hints of electro and experimenting with other genres such as synth wave and prog rock, “Skin”, a collaboration created with the help of guitarist Jamal Aggoun and producer Bob Matthews, blends dark undertones with electric guitar and heart tightening drums. Taking a wild turn for a darker, heavier sound, the track is an exacerbated depiction of deep instincts at their worst, diving into the darker corners of a troubled mind. The song follows the seemingly schizophrenic theme of Split – the Shyamalan movie – telling the story through an evil twin’s point of view as it takes control to live out one’s most unspeakable fantasies.

Give “Skin” a listen below and for more information on HAZE, give her page a like on Facebook or follow her on Instagram.