Indie music lovers take note: Mallard Cafe, the debut EP from Milwaukee’s very own Floryence, is a masterclass in raw authenticity, creative flair, and genre-bending brilliance. The one-man-band project of Jared Gibson, Floryence seamlessly blends grunge grit with surf-rock shimmer and subtle fusion flourishes, crafting a sound that is uniquely his own—and unmistakably captivating.
From the moment the EP kicks off with the foot-stomping “Coffee Grinder,” listeners are immediately drawn into Gibson’s world. With its infectious mid-tempo rhythm and jangly, catchy guitar riffs, the track flows smoothly with its nostalgic vibes, a little gritty, and strangely comforting. It’s the kind of song that grabs your attention and doesn’t let go.
The EP proceeds with the energetic and catchy “Ducks,” a fast-paced track that from the very first play will be stuck in your head with its brilliant melody and sing-along chorus. With memorable lines like “You won’t miss me tonight” Gibson’s lyrical strength shines, with a delivery that’s both laid-back and emotionally resonant.
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In the Ep we also find other gems like the introspective “Tailing Happiness” which showcases the vulnerability in Gibson’s songwriting and constant focus on narrative, and “In Another Life, Mary Jane,” with a more melancholic tone, exploring the what-ifs and could-have-beens with a moody instrumental backdrop that sways like a slow dance at the end of a dream. It’s a reflective moment that adds emotional depth to the EP, enhanced by a more acoustic arrangement, showcasing Gibson’s range not just as a musician, but as a storyteller.
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With Mallard Cafe, Floryence proves that you don’t need a full band to create something powerful. Jared Gibson’s solo venture is more than just a collection of songs—it’s a cohesive, emotionally honest, and sonically adventurous body of work that deserves to be heard far and wide. For fans of indie rock that dares to be different, this EP is not just worth a listen—it’s essential. Listen to Mallard Cafe and discover one of indie rock’s most promising new voices.
Spotify: Floryence
Instagram: floryenceband
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