Two exciting emerging voices in Australasian alt-pop are joining forces for a special co-headline show when Emerson (NZ) and Matilda Pearl (AUS) bring the LEAP! On Tour to Melbourne this August. A third act is yet to be announced.

Emerson

Joining the tour is one of Aotearoa's most exciting emerging pop artists, Emerson. Fresh off a breakout year that saw her win the Smokefree Rockquest Solo-Duo Award and release a string of acclaimed singles, the Auckland-based songwriter is quickly building a reputation for crafting sharp, emotionally honest pop songs that balance infectious hooks with fearless vulnerability.

Drawing from the messy realities of growing up, falling in and out of love, and learning to trust yourself, Emerson's music captures the highs, lows, and contradictions of young adulthood with a wit and self-awareness that has resonated with audiences across New Zealand and beyond. Her songs have earned support from Spotify and Apple Music editorial playlists, radio stations throughout Aotearoa, and a rapidly growing fanbase drawn to her candid storytelling and energetic live performances.

With influences spanning alt-pop, indie rock, and modern pop, Emerson's debut EP Leap! showcases the full scope of her musical world. From the playful confidence of tracks like Just Not Into You and Want Him Bad! to the heartfelt introspection of Breathe and When Will I, the project embraces the idea that growth often begins with taking a leap of faith.

As she embarks on her first headline tour, it’s clear why Emerson is one of New Zealand's most talked-about new artists. The leap is only just beginning.

Matilda Pearl

Joining her is Melbourne's own Matilda Pearl. In the words of Triple J, Matilda Pearl is “a big talent waiting to meet the world.” After a small hiatus, she’s stepping in fast with lyrics dripping in wit and an unfiltered, messy honesty that short-circuits the “perfect pop girl” blueprint.

Music has always been her way of making sense of herself and the world around her. Shedding her electronic glitter-pop roots, Pearl is embracing a sonic world she calls bubblegum grunge. Drawing on artists she grew up obsessing over—Smashing Pumpkins, Garbage, Ben Lee, and Blur—her upcoming EP is drenched in nostalgia. Pearl says being a twenty-something feels like being a kid again: everything is new, and nobody really knows what they’re doing. Creating music that feels nostalgic isn’t just sonic, it’s symbolic.

After festival slots at BTV, NYE on the Hill, and Land of Plenty, and supports for The Aces, George Alice, The Rions, Bella Amor, and Tyne James Organ, Pearl shows no signs of slowing down.

Inspired by alt-pop trailblazers like Mallrat, Beabadoobee, Lola Young, and Devon Again, she remains one of Melbourne’s best-kept secrets—though not for much longer.

What began as a songwriting collaboration has grown into a creative partnership built on friendship, mutual support, and a shared commitment to creating spaces where audiences can feel seen, celebrated, and completely themselves.

Don't miss the Melbourne launch of LEAP! On Tour at The Bergy Bandroom.

Emerson x Matilda Pearl: LEAP! On Tour