With Emei's brand new EP, RABBITHOLE, it marks a defining evolution in Emei’s career, showcasing an artist not only in full command of her alt-pop powers but also willing to plunge into her deepest, most personal battles. Following a challenging phase of writer's block and self-discovery, Emei has returned with a five-track concept EP, which is set for release on November 15, 2024, that’s both audacious and intensely relatable. Loosely inspired by Alice in Wonderland, this project mirrors a descent into Emei's psyche—a chaotic, self-reflective journey into themes of anxiety, self-doubt, and growth.
Opening with the electric title track “RABBITHOLE,” Emei sets the tone for a plunge into inner turmoil, delivered with her signature sharp lyricism. It's both a calm and a frenetic anthem for anyone who's ever felt trapped in a cycle of anxiety. The song encapsulates the feeling of spiralling, yet Emei’s confessional style brings a comforting sense of camaraderie. As the EP unfolds, each song adds another layer to this journey.
Tracks like “ALL THESE KIDS” channel her frustrations with the superficiality of social circles, especially in L.A. The sing-song chorus—“All these kids wanna ride for free / Ride, ride, ride on my coattail swing”—is biting yet humorous, capturing Emei's sharp observational voice. The fast-paced two-minute track is a complete 360 from the EP's title track opener.
Following is the track, “9 LIVES,” which again takes a swift turn. It's a rare pop ballad from Emei, that showcases her knack for vulnerability. Set to a raw acoustic guitar backdrop, it’s an introspective look at her own flaws in relationships, marking a new level of honesty within her songwriting. It’s a striking contrast to her more upbeat tracks and reveals the true complexity of her artistry.
Nearing the end of the EP, the lighthearted “SUGARCOAT” shifts the tone once again, with Emei playfully asserting, “Spoonful of sugar makes the boys go woo.” It’s the EP’s upward turning point, balancing the heavier topics with a dose of humour and reminding listeners of Emei’s ability to navigate complex emotions with levity.
The journey culminates with the final track, “THE PART,” a powerful, redemptive track that encapsulates her transformation. Inspired by Alice’s size-altering cookie, it’s a triumphant anthem about striving to reach her full potential, both artistically and personally. As the EP’s closer, it leaves listeners with a sense of resolution, as though Emei has fought through her own chaos to emerge stronger.
Sonically, RABBITHOLE sees Emei exploring a refined, high-energy soundscape with the help of collaborators like Boy Blue and Timfromthehouse. The production as a whole, on RABBITHOLE is vibrant, amplifying Emei’s vocal dynamism, while the EP’s visual themes—featuring nods to her Chinese heritage through symbolic red elements and childhood braids—adds a depth to the storytelling throughout its five tracks.
On RABBITHOLE, Emei has not only crafted her most ambitious project to date but has also created a resonant soundtrack for a generation that often feels on the brink. With journal-entry authenticity and a blend of wit and wisdom, Emei’s RABBITHOLE EP is a bold testament to the power of confronting oneself, even if it means falling down a rabbit hole.