For over a decade, French musician Oklou (pronounced “OK, Lou”) has been quietly reshaping avant-pop with ethereal soundscapes and introspective lyrics. Her music blends ambient textures with club-oriented rhythms, an enchanting sound that has earned her a devoted following and a steady stream of cult remixes.

When we speak, Oklou—whose real name is Marylou Mayniel—is on the cusp of releasing her debut full-length album, choke enough, a record that features collaborations with Casey MQ, A.G. Cook, Danny L. Harle and Cecile Believe. Here she discusses balancing life and creativity, the influence of cinema and the natural world, and her definition of success.

Conor McTernan: What’s been on your mind lately?

Oklou: I’m pregnant right now, and that takes up a lot of my thoughts. It’s intense balancing that and being creative, but I don’t have time to be bored!