Lucy Fitzgerald 
Listening to Houston rapper Emsee’s debut full-length “Under a Still Moon” feels like stepping into a late-night dream. The album floats on ambient, guitar-drenched soundscapes that wrap around your ears, while Emsee’s lyrics rooted in real stories of loss, survival, and upheaval hit you right in the feels. There’s an unmistakable homage to his late grandfather woven throughout, not just in dedication but in tone and texture. The moon imagery, inspired by the “moon stood still” lyric from “Blueberry Hill,” echoes through every track, giving the project a real sense of calm amid chaos.
The single “Heavy” is a perfect opener. It moves slow and hypnotic, with MXNNY’s reverb-drenched beats that feel like emotional gravity. Emsee’s bars slice through the haze with sharpness, showing self-awareness and sincerity that pull you deeper into his world. It’s that special kind of track that hooks you and won’t let go.
At around eight tracks and half an hour, the album stays tight. No filler, just feeling. Collaborations from Reno Rez, Sam Lopez, and G5 Hunnid sprinkle in extra colors without ever stealing the spotlight. It’s cohesive, reflective, and atmospheric like The Bandcamp Diaries pointed out. Part memory lane, part modern hip-hop statement.
I like the song “Heavy” so much, and it should be in everyone’s playlist, because its smooth, spacey beat and introspective flow hit all the right emotional notes and just make you feel seen and grounded even when life’s storms are raging around you.
“Under a Still Moon” is prime for anyone craving hip hop that’s equal parts vibe, storytelling, and soul. Emsee and MXNNY crafted something you don’t just hear you feel it. Highly recommended.
Listening to songs so you don’t have to! Just kidding :D, you totally should. Music blogger by day, nurse by night
