Moonchild “Up From Here” Single Review: A Soulful New Era

If you’re looking for a vibe that’s part “late-night drive” and part “deep exhale,” Moonchild has always been the go-to. But with their latest single, “Up From Here,” the L.A. trio—Amber Navran, Max Bryk, and Andris Mattson—have tapped into something that feels even more intentional and grounded.

Coming off the massive success of their 2023 Grammy-nominated album Starfruit, the expectations were high. Moonchild has built a cult following by blending high-level jazz theory with R&B that feels like a warm hug. “Up From Here” takes that signature sound and adds a layer of hard-won perspective.

The Evolution of the Moonchild Sound

Since their standout NPR Tiny Desk performance and the success of projects like Little Ghost and Voyager, Moonchild has proven they aren’t just studio wizards—they’re a live powerhouse. While their earlier work was celebrated for its “velvety” production and intricate horn stacks, “Up From Here” feels like a natural evolution into a more emotionally direct space.

The track moves away from the complex, colorful layers of Starfruit and leans into a more resilient, stripped-back energy. Amber Navran’s vocals remain as airy and precise as ever, but there’s a new weight to the lyrics.

The Collaboration We Needed

The single isn’t just a win for Moonchild fans; it’s a milestone for the genre. Featuring Robert Glasper on keys and a verse from D Smoke, the track bridges the gap between West Coast neo-soul and modern hip-hop.

• Robert Glasper adds those unmistakable, wandering piano textures that give the song its “cloud-like” feel.

• D Smoke brings a grounded grit that acts as the perfect foil to the band’s ethereal production.

Finding Hope at Rock Bottom

The core message of “Up From Here” is simple but heavy: resilience. Amber describes the song as that moment where you’ve lost so much that you finally lose your fear, too. It’s a song about the freedom found at rock bottom—the realization that once you’re down, the only direction left to look is toward the sky.

“Nothing can touch me / It’s only up from here.”

Looking Toward ‘WAVES’

“Up From Here” serves as the final teaser for their upcoming album, WAVES, dropping on February 20, 2026. If the singles are any indication, we’re in for an album that prioritizes healing and flow over perfection.

Moonchild has always been “genre-defying,” but with this new era, they seem less concerned with labels and more focused on the connection. Whether you’re a long-time fan who’s been following them since Voyager or a newcomer discovered through their viral live sessions, this new single is a reminder of why they’re at the top of their game.