Marylou Mayniel: The Enigmatic Sound of Oklou
A Traditionalist at Heart
Marylou Mayniel, known by her stage name Oklou, has recently expressed a surprising sentiment: “I’ve gotten tired of the internet.” This revelation is intriguing, especially given her rise to prominence in the digital age with her debut release, Galore, in 2020. The classically trained French musician, now a London club scene standout, skillfully merges electronic pop with the precision reminiscent of a Bach cantata. Her latest album, choke enough, is a unique blend of Y2K nostalgia and medieval musicality, bolstered by the collaborative efforts of A.G. Cook, Danny L Harle, and her long-time co-producer Casey MQ.
A Distinctive Artistic Identity
As a founding member of NUXXE, a label that encapsulates a distinctive “art schoolers go to Berghain” aesthetic, Mayniel has carved out a unique niche. Unlike her contemporaries, she brings a certain restraint to her performances—her sound is neither as provocative as Eartheater’s nor as audacious as Shygirl’s. Tracks from Galore such as “fall” and “god’s chariots” exhibit a playful subtlety, relying on minimalistic acid-synth arpeggios and understated drum loops.
A Captivating Performance
During a live performance in a seventh-story walkup in New York City, I witnessed Oklou’s artistry firsthand. Mayniel’s nimble fingers danced across keyboards, crafting loops in real-time. Each instrument she played, including the guitar for the unreleased single “Blade Bird,” seemed like an extension of her very being—an embodiment of modern-day musical charm.
Exploring choke enough
In her latest work, choke enough, Mayniel emerges as a fully realized artist. The title track stands out as her finest work to date, encapsulating the muffled ambiance of a party bathroom video through four mesmerizing minutes devoid of a traditional beat. The constantly evolving synth timbres create a sculptural effect, reflecting the album’s overarching theme of transformation without resolution.
Opening Tracks and Uncanny Textures
The album begins with “Endless,” which transitions from a distant rhythm to a wistful ballad, eventually introducing a playful keyboard solo. The track showcases Mayniel’s unique approach to sound, where each element feels deliberate yet spontaneous.
Throughout the album, uncanny textures abound. In “Thank You for Recording,” Oklou interacts with her synth flute in a whimsical duet, reminiscent of a cyberpunk fairy tale. The arrangement draws parallels to Prokofiev’s Peter and the Wolf, where each instrument represents a character, highlighting her classical influences.
Baroque Influences in Modern Sound
Mayniel’s conservatory training is evident in her affinity for imitative polyphony, a defining feature of Baroque music. The track “Ict” features a trumpet refrain that feels straight out of the 1600s, while “Obvious” incorporates a digi-clarinet and tambourine reminiscent of a Renaissance fair. Oklou masterfully intertwines hyper-quantized digital beats with the precision of centuries-old compositions.
Conclusion
Marylou Mayniel, as Oklou, presents a multifaceted artistic identity that blends traditional musical training with contemporary electronic pop. Her latest album, choke enough, not only showcases her evolution as a performer but also solidifies her position as a distinctive voice in the modern music landscape. With her enchanting soundscapes and intricate arrangements, Mayniel invites listeners on a journey that bridges the past with the present, leaving them both intrigued and yearning for more.
FAQs
Who is Marylou Mayniel?
Marylou Mayniel is a French musician and producer known by her stage name Oklou. She is recognized for her unique blend of electronic pop and classical music influences.
What is Oklou’s latest album?
Oklou’s latest album is titled choke enough, featuring a mix of Y2K influences and medieval musical elements.
What musical elements does Oklou incorporate in her work?
Oklou incorporates various musical elements, including electronic beats, classical motifs, imitative polyphony, and unconventional textures, creating a distinct sound.
What is NUXXE?
NUXXE is a label and collective that represents a unique sound characterized by an “art schoolers go to Berghain” aesthetic, which Oklou is a founding member of.
How does Oklou perform live?
Oklou’s live performances feature her skillful real-time music creation, where she adeptly plays multiple instruments, creating an engaging and immersive experience for her audience.
