Ocean EP – Maiken Kroken

Ever pressed play on an album, enjoyed it, and then let it vanish into the swirling abyss of your music library?
Yeah, same.
It’s not that you didn’t like it—far from it. It just got buried under the endless avalanche of new releases (and, let’s be honest, holiday chaos). That’s exactly what happened to me with Maiken Kroken’s Ocean EP. But when I revisited it after the festive storm cleared, I found myself wondering why I ever let it slip away? Each listen feels like rediscovering a hidden gem, one that delivers every single time.

The EP opens with Falling in Love with You Again, a nu-soul track that glides effortlessly, combining dreamy jazz vibes with a touch of soul elegance. Its lyrics linger long after the music fades, and the gentle rhythm feels like stepping into a warm embrace. Truth follows with its bold message of resilience, carried by a captivating horn section from Lyder Roed (Fieh) and piano riffs that dig deep into your emotions. It’s a song that’s equal parts reflection and strength, perfect for moments when life demands a little fight.

The title track, Ocean, lives up to its name, ebbing and flowing with a delicate melody that mirrors life’s changing tides. Maiken’s evocative lyrics and shimmering piano accompaniment create a soundscape that’s as moving as it is tranquil, capturing the feeling of drifting away from an old self while trying to stay afloat.

Then there’s Waiting for the Weekend, a jazz-infused groove produced by Ivan Blomqvist (Rohey). My favourite track, it’s an anthem for escaping the weekday grind, with Maiken’s laid-back vocals capturing just the right amount of anticipation. The catchy chorus sticks with you, setting the perfect soundtrack for the weekend ahead.

Maiken Kroken’s Ocean EP is the kind of music you keep coming back to, not because you forgot about it, but because it wraps you in a soulful jazz every time you listen. It’s a collection of songs that flow beautifully, with melodies and lyrics that draw you in and keep you hooked. Whether you’re discovering it for the first time or pressing play months later, this EP is worth your time – every time.