Hemlocke Springs’ ‘The Apple Tree Under The Sea’ Review: Vibrant Alt-Pop from a Rising Star

Immerse yourself in Hemlocke Springs’ colourful alt-pop debut, ‘The Apple Tree Under The Sea,’ where synth nostalgia meets bold, heartfelt storytelling.

A Fresh Voice Emerges from North Carolina

When I first caught wind of Hemlocke Springs—born Isimeme ‘Naomi’ Udu—in her hometown of Concord, North Carolina, she was gearing up to drop her debut album in April 2023. Her breakout single, the infectious ‘Girlfriend,’ had done more than just charm TikTok’s endless scroll—it catapulted Naomi into the whirlwind of the music industry almost overnight.

But here’s the thing about overnight sensations: they often need a moment to catch their breath. And Naomi knew it. Nearly three years after acknowledging the need to slow down, she’s finally ready to share her meticulously crafted debut, The Apple Tree Under The Sea—a project that feels more like a journey than a mere collection of songs.

Synth-Pop Brilliance Meets Theatrical Flair

Udu’s sound is a love letter to ’80s synth-pop with a modern twist. Her vocal delivery often draws comparisons to the ethereal Kate Bush, blending theatricality with raw emotional punch. It’s no surprise that big names like Chappell Roan, Doja Cat, and Steve Lacy have championed her work.

But it’s not just her sound that’s dazzling—it’s the entire Hemlocke Springs universe. From kaleidoscopic hair colors to quirky, boundary-pushing music videos, and now a visually stunning album concept, she crafts her art with full immersion. Unlike many TikTok-born artists who blaze bright and fade fast, Naomi is playing the long game, treating music as a total vision.

A Bold, Concept-Driven Debut

The Apple Tree Under The Sea picks up where her 2023 EP Going…Going…Gone! left off—but with a bolder, more adventurous spirit. While that EP captured her real-time transition from aspiring medical professional to pop star, this album dives deep into themes of identity, growth, and self-discovery. The core narrative? A girl who stumbles upon a red apple, a symbol ripe with meaning both personal and cultural.

Raised in a Christian household, Udu’s spiritual backdrop adds rich layers to the album’s themes. The apple isn’t just a fruit—it’s a nod to original sin, temptation, and the journey beyond the confines of faith. Tracks like Set Me Free express the teenage lust she had to suppress under strict religious rules, while Be The Girl! is a theatrical farewell to her past self, embracing transformation with a bittersweet euphoria.

“Even after all that I’ve been put through / Deep down, I sincerely wish the best for you.” – Hemlocke Springs

Musical Adventures Across Genres

The album’s musical palette is as diverse as its themes. On Moses, Udu channels religious imagery again, declaring, “use my two hands to part the sea like Moses,” over a powerful string-backed breakbeat. The high-energy rock climax on The Beginning Of The End shakes things up, while Heads, Shoulders, Knees and Ankles gives the spotlight to a playful organ riff.

Even when she returns to her alt-pop comfort zone on Sense(is), there’s a fresh precision and charm that keeps listeners hooked. This interplay between nostalgia and innovation is what makes The Apple Tree Under The Sea more than just an album—it’s an experience.

Proving the Hype Was Real

Hemlocke Springs has weathered her share of skepticism, with some quick to label her an ‘industry plant’—a challenge many breakout artists face. But this album makes it clear: Naomi Udu is here to stay.

Building on the promise of Going…Going…Gone! and pushing boundaries with every beat, The Apple Tree Under The Sea confirms Hemlocke Springs as one of today’s most vibrant and honest voices in pop music.

Album Details

• Record Label: AWAL
• Release Date: February 13, 2026

Hemlocke Springs - "w-w-w-w-w" Official Visualizer

https://www.inoreader.com/yt-embed/?v=tDA2qMV2KmA

FAQ

• What inspired Hemlocke Springs’ album concept?
  The album revolves around a girl discovering a red apple, symbolizing personal growth and breaking away from her religious upbringing.
• How does Hemlocke Springs’ music stand out from other TikTok artists?
  She combines theatrical vocals, ’80s synth influences, and conceptual storytelling, crafting a fully immersive artistic universe beyond viral hits.
• Which artists have praised Hemlocke Springs?
  Notable artists like Chappell Roan, Doja Cat, and Steve Lacy have publicly supported her music.
• When was ‘The Apple Tree Under The Sea’ released?
  The album was released on February 13, 2026.
• What themes are explored in the album?
  Themes include identity, self-discovery, religious questioning, and embracing change.

If you’ve fallen for Hemlocke Springs’ unique style, why not bring her vibrant energy into your space? Shop your favorite album cover poster at our store and keep the music alive on your wall.