Oklou and ROB Release First In Waves Soundtrack Track
The electronic duo's track "the swirl ahead" previews their score for the animated film adapted from AJ Dungo's graphic novel.
Updated on Nov. 11, 2026 in Alternative
Oklou and ROB have released "the swirl ahead," the first track from the soundtrack to the animated feature In Waves. The song is a slow-building cascade of synths and processed vocals that crescendos into orchestral pop, and a clip of it is paired with a film scene.
Why it matters
The release gives audiences an early listen to the score for an animated adaptation that premiered at Cannes earlier in 2026. It also marks a new project for Oklou, who released her debut album Choke Enough in 2025.
The soundtrack's 22-track tracklist is scheduled for release on December 11, alongside the film's Netflix premiere. Only the first track, "the swirl ahead," has been made available so far, with the remaining 21 tracks yet to be revealed.
The players
Oklou
A French-Vietnamese electronic and alternative musician whose debut album Choke Enough was released in 2025.
ROB
A French electronic music producer who has collaborated with Oklou on the In Waves score.
The details
Oklou and ROB are scoring In Waves, directed by Phuong Mai Nguyen and starring Will Sharpe and Stephanie Hsu as AJ and Kristen. The film follows a couple's relationship, their shared love of surfing, and Kristen's battle with cancer.
Timeline
2025: Oklou releases debut album Choke Enough.
Earlier in 2026: In Waves premieres at Cannes.
November 11, 2026: "the swirl ahead" is released.
December 11, 2026: In Waves soundtrack and Netflix premiere scheduled.
Industry Dynamics
The In Waves score reflects a wider crossover in which alternative electronic artists are taking on feature film scoring for streaming platforms. Oklou and ROB's work follows this path as streaming services increasingly commission distinctive, genre-crossing music for prestige animated projects.
The soundtrack will be available on December 11 via Because, giving listeners a way to hear the full score beyond the single. Viewers can watch In Waves on Netflix following its scheduled premiere alongside the album.
The takeaway
Soundtrack releases from alternative artists can offer a fresh listening entry point to both film and musician. Following the December 11 release will show how the full 22-track score holds up beyond its opening single.
What happens next
The full In Waves soundtrack is scheduled for release on December 11, alongside the film's Netflix premiere.
Further reading
Explore more alternative music coverage for context on artists like Oklou.
