Oklou and Bladee Reach Ethereal New Heights in "take me by the hand"


Photo: @arianekiks

French singer-songwriter and producer Oklou allows herself to fall in love with her latest single, "take me by the hand." The dreamy single, which will be featured on Oklou's upcoming album, depicts the importance of unconditional love–e.g., facing conflicts, embracing imperfections, finding ways to work through life together.

"Take Me by the Hand" introduces itself with atmospheric sonics paired with snowy, sparkling synths, creating a unique sonic landscape that feels both futuristic and nostalgic. Oklou's gentle vocals, a blend of ethereal and earthy, lure in and lull the listener. Over the three-minute cut, they deal with the desire to seek collaboration and support through life's hardships, burdened by the limitations of communicating only with words.

Joined by Bladee, the two trade off vocals with each other, moving between the airy, transient aspects of Oklou's parts and the weightier aspects of Bladee's artistry, creating a song that comes together in the most satisfying, brain-scratching way. "I wanted this song to sound like something ethereal but also very earthy," Oklou shared in a press release. "Bladee's voice is helping to keep the feet on the ground."

The accompanying music video, directed by Tohé Commaret, is a titillating visual that sees the duo reside in this wind-blown, heaven-esque, other realm. The wind-blown setting symbolizes the transient nature of life, while the heavenly realm represents the idealized state of love. Bladee's appearance to Oklou like an enlightened, celestial being from the darkness of abandoned hallways can be interpreted as the emergence of hope from despair, acting as her companion as she traverses white-lit dance floors, which could symbolize the journey through life's challenges.

"take me by the hand," is the latest single featured on her upcoming album choke enough. Other tracks confirmed to be on the highly anticipated body of work include the title track "Choke Enough," "Harvest Sky," "Obvious," and "Family and Friends." with Bladee as one of just two features, with the other coming from hyperpop phenom underscores.

Watch the "take me by the hand" video below:


Related Articles

Interview With Wasia Project: On Isotope Chic, Bathroom Scribbles and Being Ready to Make An Album

Interview With Wasia Project: On Isotope Chic, Bathroom Scribbles and Being Ready to Make An Album

November 27, 2024 The iconic brother and sister pop-duo have just completed their Isotope World Tour, so at their show in Brussels, we sat down to chat about their songwriting process, cats, and being ready to add more songs to their musical catalog.
Author: Daniela Waizel Rule
Jacqui's "Mmm!" Captures Both Ends of her Self-Described "Two-faced" Sound

Jacqui's "Mmm!" Captures Both Ends of her Self-Described "Two-faced" Sound

November 15, 2024 Convulsing between banter, rap and sweet singing, Jacqui creates a funky, post-academic dreamscape of pop.
Author: DJ Connor
pop
rap
Get To Know PRISCILLA in Five Minutes or Less

Get To Know PRISCILLA in Five Minutes or Less

October 20, 2023 "One of the beautiful (and scary things) I find about songwriting is how deeply personal it can be."
Author: Jessica Magtalas
pop