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:
