Circle of Dust

Circle of Dust is the primary industrial metal vehicle for multi-instrumentalist and producer Klayton (Scott Albert). Formed in the late 1980s, the project became a cornerstone of the 1990s industrial scene, notable for bridging the gap between the aggressive thrash metal of the era and the burgeoning electronic/industrial movement.

Klayton's approach was characterized by a DIY ethos, handling nearly all production and instrumentation, which allowed for a highly specific sonic identity rooted in complex sampling and rhythmic layering. The project's history is marked by a significant hiatus following label disputes in the late 90s, during which Klayton founded the highly successful Celldweller. After regaining his masters in 2015, he revived Circle of Dust, releasing new material that integrated modern production techniques with the project's original dystopian themes. Critically, the project is respected for its technical sophistication and its role in the 'Christian industrial' movement, though Klayton eventually moved away from that scene to focus on secular cyberpunk aesthetics. His influence is visible in the 'electronic-rock' hybrid genre, paving the way for artists who blend heavy guitars with modular synthesis and cinematic sound design.