Eva Gardner is an artist and touring musician born and based in Los Angeles. Gardner started her music career with a bang, being an original member of the Mars Volta and working with artists such as Gwen Stefani, Cher, Tegan & Sara, and Moby.
On breaks between touring with P!nk, Gardner writes and performs her own music. She released her second solo EP, Darkmatter, on December 17, 2021. The EP is available both digitally and on vinyl, and explores a number of themes and emotions, including nostalgia and overcoming obstacles. Gardner's skills as a multi-instrumentalist come through in the vocal, keyboard, bass, and guitar tracks. The EP incorporates modern synth pop elements into a classic 90s punk rock sound, creating something edgy, nostalgic, and original.
"Is Love Enough" is a perfect kickoff for the release, beginning with a single guitar track and evolving into an upbeat alternative jam. The stacked vocals of "High Moon" are a can't-miss, and the addition of synths highlight Gardner's one-of-a-kind sound. "Call It a Day" is catchy and moshpit-worthy, with unforgettable vocal melodies and energizing instrumentation. Darkmatter showcases Gardner's mastery of dynamic storytelling, with songs like "Anywhere But Here" and "California Bliss" reaching new depths both in volume and in vulnerability.
We spoke with Eva Gardner about her musical influences, astronomy, experiences touring with P!nk, and more. Check out the full interview below and listen to Darkmatter. Let us know what you think.
What are the last three songs you listened to?
“Rosanna” by Toto, “We Are the Champions” by Queen, and “Life is Just Beginning” by the Creation.
At what age did you start playing and writing music?
I started playing and writing music at age 14. I had an all girl band called Entropy that I played my very first shows with.
If you weren’t a musician, what do you think you would be doing now?
If I wasn’t a musician I’d be lost! I can’t see myself as anything else, although I am fascinated by the sciences.
Tell us more about your appreciation for astronomy.
My father had a telescope when I was young. He was enamored by the night sky and I quickly grew to share his enthusiasm for space. This led me to wanting to become an astronomer for a time before I found music.
What is your go-to stargazing song?
The band Air offers the perfect soundtrack for Stargazing.
How would you describe your sound?
I’d describe my sound as “pop alternative with a grunge twist”.
Who are your biggest musical influences?
My biggest musical influences are vast; they range from Jimi Hendrix, to Led Zeppelin, to Tower of Power, to Radiohead, to Chopin.
What has been your favorite memory playing with P!nk? How have your experiences playing solo shows differed from those with P!nk?
Some of my favorite memories of playing with P!nk are the Isle of Wight Festival in 2010 and two sold-out nights at Wembley Stadium in 2019. These were full circle moments for me, playing these legendary venues where it all started with my father in the 1960s. Playing solo shows has a totally different vibe. I’m playing and singing my own songs versus being part of the team that supports an artist.
What is your favorite song on the EP?
My favorite song on the EP is “Call It a Day”. It started out as a simple electric guitar and vocal idea about seven years ago. I always wanted to do something with it and I’m happy it made it onto this EP. I love the idea of surrender, forgiveness, calling a truce–whether it be with someone else or even yourself. Acceptance can lead us on the road to healing.
"I love the idea of surrender, forgiveness, calling a truce–whether it be with someone else or even yourself."
What’s next for Eva Gardener?
I’m looking forward to hopefully playing some live shows to support the EP!