Brooklyn rock duo Gardenia are back with a new EP, Don’t Look Up, out April 25, 2025 (Today!), on Mint 400 Records. The band, made up of Ryan Zakin (vocals/bass) and Tamir Malik (drums), bring their energetic and emotional sound to this strong new collection of post punk bangers.
Gardenia started in a Manhattan recording studio, where Zakin and Malik first met. Known for their wild live shows and sharp lyrics, the band mixes gritty fuzzed up bass, pounding drums, and honest songs that look at life today. They pull inspiration from bands like Soundgarden, Arctic Monkeys, and Queens of the Stone Age, but their style feels personal and fresh.
The first single, “Lana Del Rey,” sets the tone. It is a big, bold song with heavy bass and huge drum sounds. The lyrics question how we remember the past and ask what it means to love something that is not perfect. Produced by Jack Shirley, who has worked with Deafheaven and Jeff Rosenstock, the song has already been noticed by critics and even got some traction with MTVu.
Another highlight is “I Miss You, Alexa,” a loud, emotional track about one-sided love. Inspired by a true story, it captures the feeling of missing someone who has already moved on. The huge chorus and crashing sound make it feel like it belongs in a 2000s movie soundtrack.
The EP also dives deeper with “(Stranger),” a dark, moody song inspired by the book L'Étranger by Albert Camus. Death From Above 1979’s Sebastian Grainger even helped by giving feedback during the writing process, which helped shape the track.
Gardenia already built momentum with their 2023 debut album Knowing You Know Nothing. With Don’t Look Up, they show they are not afraid to tackle big ideas with their music. Gardenia’s mix of raw sound and thoughtful lyrics make them a very exciting band to watch. Fans of serious indie rock with strong emotions will find a lot to love here. Don’t Look Up proves that Gardenia is ready to take their place among the best new names in the genre. I don't know that I can name a better duo in the BK scene, you need to see this band live!
