Not for Radio released its short EP ‘Bloom’ April 17. Through the project, listeners are immersed in a world where romance feels possible or at least that’s the impression it leaves. Maria Zardoya, the main vocalist of Not for Radio, is also known for her work with her band The Marias, where she blends English and Spanish lyrics. Her vocals are like no other and through ‘Bloom’ she’s able to show another version of herself. 

Feeling like a kitten in someone’s arms might be the greatest feeling because you feel safe and secure. The opening track, “Kitten” offers airy and delicate vocals that match that exact feeling. The song is upbeat and leans into an indie sound, something you can drive to with the windows down because we all like doing that don’t we? The guitar strings are to die for, paired with  steady drums and a-bass like groove that’s easy to dance to.

The song itself speaks about desire, as Zardoya repeats “I always want you, you’re always there,” throughout the chorus. It feels like a slow-burn of yearning, wanting someone so badly it almost doesn’t make sense. There’s something about them that pulls you in, they interest you in a way you don’t understand but are drawn to anyway, much like a kitten curious about its surroundings. 

For any Mazzy Star fans, the next track, “Ache,” will feel familiar. It’s reminiscent of the sound created by Hope Sandoval, the band’s lead singer. Zardoya’s vocals mirror that same dreamy tone. The track feels like you’re floating, or even staring at your reflection in a nearby lake, soft, glistening and almost psychedelic.

“Ache” captures the kind of longing that takes over your entire body. The feeling in your stomach when you may not be able to get what you want. It’s an intense emotion that can take over your nervous system. That’s how badly Zardoya feels as she sings of the intense emotional pain she is going through. “Want you to want me and to give me all your time of day, and in the morning when you walk into my living room I’ll be there waiting with a heart that’s only built for you.” The lyrics reflect a deep emotional need to be close to someone, even when the feeling is overwhelming. 

At first eerie in its sound, “Living Room” settles into something fragile and deeply personal. Zaydoya explores what it feels like to fall for someone and learn to love them fully. There’s a softness to it, a vulnerability that feels almost sacred. 

“Don’t let me down, I’ve come so far on my own, now that I’m not alone. There next to me, now my house is a home.” To which I interpret the feeling of finding someone who makes you feel like you’re at home, a place you look forward to coming home to. It’s special. It’s the feeling of not knowing how to live without this person. 

There’s a comforting atmosphere throughout the EP. It’s intimate, soft, delicate and even at times vulnerable. Even though the runtime is short, it still makes for a strong project that makes you think about romance and its hardships. Relationships aren’t easy but Zardoya explores what it means to love intensely, painting a vivid picture of the longing, the ache and the tenderness of it all.