40 Lashes wrestle with love and longing on new single ‘Never Wanted’

Brooklyn punk newcomers 40 Lashes return with ‘Never Wanted’, the third single from their upcoming EP ‘Cheer On, Rock On, Party On’. Mixed by Brett Romnes (Mom Jeans, Hot Mulligan) and mastered by Mike Kalajian (Oso Oso, New Found Glory), the track blends heartache with punchy energy.

Sonically buoyant yet emotionally raw, ‘Never Wanted’ captures the whirlwind highs and lows of a codependent relationship. Grappling with fleeting hope for real love amidst a chaotic fling, the track wears its conflicted heart on its sleeve. Musically, it echoes the sharp hooks of Joyce Manor and the woozy indie edge of Basement, pairing catchy choruses with seasick guitars and gut-punch lyrics.

‘Never Wanted’ is a bold, relatable anthem for anyone trying to make sense of messy feelings—and refusing to look away when things get complicated. With their new EP on the horizon, 40 Lashes are carving out their space with sincerity, distortion, and just the right amount of heartbreak.