AOTW: “Leap!” by Emerson 111226

November 12th, 2026 by Allison Shulman

AOTW: “Leap!” by Emerson

Reviewed by: Marley Lehmann

Release Date: August 28, 2026

Rating: 8/10

RIYL: Florence Road, Lorde, Claire Rosinkranz, Lyn Lapid

Review: 

Emerson is an incredible 19-year-old artist from New Zealand. She started writing songs at the age of 14 and even won the Smokefree Rockquest Solo-Duo Award back in 2024. Emerson’s music often revolves around the “pop” genre, however, her newly released album, “Leap!” has a mixture of indie-rock guitars, alternative pop beats, and even slow, almost ballad-like songs. The title for the album came from the fact that she started this project during a leap year and took a “leap of faith”. She hopes this album pushes listeners to do the same.

The lyrics throughout this album follow topics of reassurance, rejection, yearning, and vulnerability. Emerson writes beautifully about jumping headfirst into a new direction, longing for something more, dealing with the obstacles and finding peace and composure in it all. As a college student, I believe that these are feelings we have all felt before in one way or another. “Save Me”, the fifth track on this album, is one of my favorites. Emerson depicts the raw emotions that are exposed when reaching out for help and support while feeling overwhelmed. Despite such a deep and vulnerable meaning, the song itself has an upbeat and indie-pop and slight alternative vibe to it. To me, it is the perfect song for a walk/drive home from class. It serves as a reminder that it’s okay to feel overwhelmed while still moving forward and energy and vulnerability can coexist.

Emerson’s new album “Leap!” has so much to offer as far as genres, instruments, lyrical meanings, and overall vibes. I would recommend this album to everyone, especially students who may struggle with overwhelming feelings. If you like artists like Lorde, Claire Rosinkranz, Florence Road, or Lyn Lapid, you should listen to this album.