New Orleans-based singer-songwriter Gardenia Moon creates her sound by taking cues from genres like dream pop, indie folk, and drawing from the heavy hitters of confessional songwriting like Fiona Apple, Mazzy Star, and Tori Amos. She has just released her new deeply personal 6-song EP, Dead Flowers, written and recorded over a period of intense emotional change, grief, and personal healing.
“It’s a love letter to the version of myself that stayed through the darkest parts, and to anyone who’s ever felt themselves unravel and had to stitch their soul back together by hand,” she says of her new release.
The EP’s intro evokes a similar feeling to when a theatrical production is just starting – there’s anticipation and excitement within the opening notes, and then the smooth, impeccable vocals and melodies come in, ready to tell the story. This first song, “Dead Flowers” is catchy and engrossing, truly deserving of having the EP named for it.
Next up is “Love Is All That Matters,” a cool and compelling song with a unique blend of styles and genres, mixed with a theatrical flair that is undeniable. Then, “The Stars” is light and lively with the vocals taking centre stage. The style and arrangement of this song makes it easy to follow along with the lyrics and let the words take shape. A hopeful feeling captured in a short but impactful song.
“Sweet Memories” has a wonderful nostalgic feel to it, reminiscent of a warm summer night. A song fitting of its name. I love the attitude in the lyrics of “Take No Prisoners,” especially as the upbeat style of the song mask them so smartly. The EP ends with “Nothing At All,” a beautiful, wistful song that feels like looking back. The overall sound and feeling of this song reminds me of Joni Mitchell and Carol King, but with a 2025 update. A wonderful way to end this collection.
Overall, there is so much enticing drama and payoff to this EP. Moody, heartfelt; weaving a personal story through the six songs. With a showstopping vocal style and confident songwriting, Gardenia Moon’s Dead Flowers EP is a must-listen.
Stream the Dead Flowers EP by Gardenia Moon on your preferred platform:
Spotify / Bandcamp / Apple Music
Follow Gardenia Moon on Instagram
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