Porcelain Moon is a captivating indie pop duo from Cape Town, South Africa, consisting of Emma Goode and Gerry Matthee. Their music is characterized by dreamy synth-driven melodies, cinematic progressions, and honeyed vocals. Since their debut in 2018, they've garnered international acclaim, winning the Avid and Abbey Road Studios Song Contest and amassing a dedicated fanbase worldwide.
Country | South Africa |
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Alumni of | University of Cape Town |
Knows languages | english |
Occupations | musical artist, singer, producer |
Genres | Indie Pop, Synth-Pop, Alternative Pop |
Members | Emma Goode (lead vocalist/pianist), Gerry Matthee (producer/multi-instrumentalist) |
Years active | 2018–present |
Also known as | Emerger |
Labels | Independent |
Instruments | Vocals, Piano, Synthesizer, Guitar, Bass, Drums |
Alma mater | University of Cape Town |
Early Life and Formation
Emma Goode and Gerry Matthee, the duo behind Porcelain Moon, first met during their high school years in Cape Town. Their shared passion for music led them to pursue formal education at the University of Cape Town, where Emma focused on jazz vocals and piano, while Gerry honed his skills in music production and multi-instrumental performance. This academic background laid a solid foundation for their future collaborations.
During their university years, Emma and Gerry began experimenting with blending their musical influences, ranging from classical and jazz to contemporary pop and electronic music. This fusion of styles became the hallmark of their sound, characterized by ethereal synths, intricate melodies, and emotive lyrics. Their early compositions reflected a deep understanding of musical theory combined with a desire to push creative boundaries.
The duo's commitment to their craft was evident in their relentless pursuit of perfection. They spent countless hours in the studio, refining their sound and developing a unique identity that would set them apart in the indie pop scene. Their dedication paid off when they decided to officially form a band, initially under the name Emerger, marking the beginning of their professional journey in the music industry.
Career Milestones
Porcelain Moon's career took off with the release of their debut mini-album 'Bloom' in 2018. The album showcased their signature blend of dreamy synth-pop and cinematic progressions, earning them critical acclaim. The lead single, 'Break & Fall,' stood out among nearly 5,000 entries to win the Avid and Abbey Road Studios Song Contest, providing them with the opportunity to visit the iconic studio in London and attend a mastering session for their winning track.
Following this success, the duo continued to build momentum by releasing a series of singles that further solidified their place in the indie pop landscape. Tracks like 'Urban Wilderness' and 'Nomadic Love' received significant airplay on South African radio stations and were featured on various international platforms, including BBC Introducing and BBC Radio 6 Music. Their music's universal appeal led to features in Apple Music and Spotify editorial playlists, amassing over 900,000 streams.
In 2024, they rebranded from Emerger to Porcelain Moon, signaling a new chapter in their artistic journey. This change was accompanied by the release of 'Wishbone,' a single that delved into the complexities of relationships, blending poignant lyrics with upbeat, danceable rhythms. The track was well-received, marking a successful transition under their new moniker and setting the stage for future projects.
Musical Style and Influences
Porcelain Moon's music is a tapestry woven from various genres and influences, resulting in a sound that is both unique and accessible. Their compositions are characterized by lush, synth-driven melodies that create an ethereal atmosphere, complemented by cinematic progressions that add depth and emotion. Emma's vocals are both intimate and soaring, delivering soulful lyrics that resonate with listeners on a personal level.
The duo draws inspiration from a diverse array of artists and genres. Comparisons have been made to bands like London Grammar, Oh Wonder, and Paramore's Hayley Williams, reflecting their ability to blend indie pop sensibilities with electronic and alternative elements. Their sound also incorporates influences from 80s and 90s synth-pop, evident in their use of vintage synthesizers and drum machines, which they modernize with contemporary production techniques.
This eclectic mix of influences allows Porcelain Moon to craft songs that are both nostalgic and fresh. Their ability to seamlessly blend different musical styles has garnered them a broad audience, appealing to fans of indie pop, electronic music, and beyond. Their commitment to authenticity and emotional expression continues to be the driving force behind their evolving sound.
Discography Highlights
Porcelain Moon's discography reflects their evolution as artists and their commitment to exploring new musical territories. Their debut mini-album, 'Bloom,' released in 2018, introduced listeners to their signature sound, featuring tracks like 'Break & Fall' and 'Urban Wilderness.' The album's success laid the groundwork for their future releases and established them as a promising act in the indie pop scene.
In 2022, they released 'Aeroplane Park,' a single that showcased their ability to craft nostalgic yet contemporary tracks. The song's dreamy melodies and evocative lyrics resonated with fans, further solidifying their reputation for creating emotionally impactful music. This release was followed by 'Ghost in the Machine,' a track that delved into the complexities of digital identities and the impact of social media, blending thought-provoking themes with danceable rhythms.
Their 2024 cover of Empire of the Sun's 'Walking on a Dream' demonstrated their versatility and ability to reinterpret existing works through their unique lens. By infusing the classic electropop track with their signature style, they offered listeners a fresh take that honored the original while adding their own artistic flair. This release, along with their original compositions, continues to showcase their growth and adaptability as artists.
Recent Developments and Future Prospects
As of 2025, Porcelain Moon continues to build on their success, engaging with a growing international fanbase and exploring new creative avenues. Their recent releases have demonstrated a willingness to experiment with different sounds and themes, reflecting their commitment to artistic growth. The duo's dynamic live performances have also garnered attention, with appearances at notable South African music festivals and venues, further establishing their presence in the live music scene.
Looking ahead, Porcelain Moon plans to release a series of new singles that delve deeper into personal and societal themes, aiming to connect with listeners on a more profound level. They are also exploring collaborations with other artists and producers to expand their musical horizons and reach new audiences. Their dedication to authenticity and innovation positions them as a compelling act to watch in the evolving landscape of indie pop music.
With a solid foundation built on years of collaboration and a clear vision for the future, Porcelain Moon is poised to continue making significant contributions to the music industry. Their journey from high school friends to acclaimed artists serves as a testament to their talent, perseverance, and the universal power of music to inspire and connect people across the globe.
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