Miami’s beloved indie rock band, Mustard Service, is set to electrify the city once again with the return of their signature event, Zest Fest IV. The highly anticipated festival will take place at ZeyZey Miami on Friday, August 22, promising an immersive experience filled with surprise hosts, elaborate props, dynamic lighting, and synchronized visuals.
Known for their unique “Zest Pop” sound—a vibrant fusion of indie rock, electronic beats, and Latin influences—Mustard Service has cultivated a dedicated following since their formation in 2015. This year’s Zest Fest not only marks the fourth installment of their annual homecoming celebration but also coincides with the buzz surrounding their recently released fourth studio album, ‘Vice City Magic’.
The Evolution of Zest Fest
Zest Fest, an event that began in 2019, has become a cornerstone of the Miami music scene and a testament to Mustard Service’s deep roots in their hometown. The inaugural festival was held at The Bridge, a small underground venue in Miami, and they also played early gigs at Churchill’s Pub. Over the years, the festival has expanded its reach, even being hosted in other cities like San Diego and San Francisco, while maintaining its annual return to Miami, typically in the fall.
The festival’s evolution reflects the band’s own journey from playing in abandoned warehouses and friends’ backyards to becoming one of Miami’s most prominent musical acts. Past Zest Fests have featured a curated lineup of local talent, showcasing Mustard Service’s commitment to supporting their friends and the broader indie and alternative community in Miami, which has experienced significant growth in recent years.
A Deep Dive into ‘Vice City Magic’
‘Vice City Magic’, Mustard Service’s latest album, released in 2025, represents a significant artistic step for the band. Produced by Chad Copelin, known for his work with artists like Wilderado, the album is described as a raw and unfiltered look at Miami’s often-unseen underbelly. While Miami is frequently portrayed through images of luxury and hedonism, ‘Vice City Magic’ delves into darker themes of inequality, addiction, and lust, highlighting the struggles of marginalized communities and systemic issues within the city.
The album’s artwork, a collage of balaclava-clad characters, further emphasizes this focus, representing the overlooked communities often excluded from Miami’s polished image. Despite these somber themes, the album also captures the enduring spirit, joy, and resilience of Miami’s people. Tracks like “Big Time” and “Conversation Overtime” offer glimpses into the band’s creative journey and storytelling. The album also features a guest appearance by indie artist JW Francis on the track “How Come.”
The Architects of Zest Pop: Mustard Service
Mustard Service is an indie rock band based in Miami, Florida, formed in 2015. The band initially consisted of Marco Rivero Ochoa (lead vocals, rhythm guitar), Augusto Di Catarina (bass), Gabriel Marinuchi (lead guitar), Leo Cattani (electronic keyboards), and Adam Perez (drums). Current lineup information suggests the core trio is Marco Rivero Ochoa (lead vocals, rhythm guitar), Leo Cattani (keyboard), and Adam Perez (drums), while other sources still list them as a five-piece.
Their self-described “Zest Pop” sound is a unique blend of rock, surf, jazz, funk, and bossa nova, infused with Latin flavors from their Cuban, Uruguayan, Argentinian, and Mexican heritage. This rich cultural background is evident in their music, which often features Spanish lyrics and vibrant Latin rhythms. The name “Mustard Service” itself originated from a band name generator.
The songwriting process has evolved over the years. Initially, lead singer Marco Rivero was the primary songwriter, but starting with their second album, ‘C’est La Vie’ (released March 23, 2020), it became a more collaborative effort, with all members contributing. Their previous album, ‘Variety Pack’ (released in 2023), further showcased this collaborative approach, with tracks composed by Gabriel Marinuchi and Leo Cattani. This collaborative spirit extends to their live performances, where they are known for their energetic stage presence.
ZeyZey Miami: The Venue for Zest Fest IV
ZeyZey Miami, located at 353 NE 61st St, is an open-air cultural venue and community gathering space that serves as the perfect backdrop for Zest Fest IV. Known for its live music offerings, ZeyZey also boasts a chef-driven food program, featuring tasty tacos from Tacos María, and a curated beverage program with craft cocktails and natural wines. The venue aims to blend global music with a welcoming atmosphere, making it a vibrant hub for the Miami music scene.
Doors for Zest Fest IV open at 8 p.m. on August 22, with happy hour food and drink specials available from 8 to 9 p.m. The event is 18+, though ZeyZey is generally a family-friendly venue for daytime events.
The Lineup: Local Talent on Display
Beyond Mustard Service headlining, Zest Fest IV will feature a diverse lineup of supporting acts, continuing the tradition of showcasing local and emerging talent. The confirmed artists include Mr. Floyd Larry, a Miami-based band known for their blend of shoegaze, post-punk, and dream pop; Sam E., a Latin singer-songwriter originally from Argentina and now based in Miami; and Iliad, a South Florida indie rock group with an atmospheric sound.
This carefully curated lineup underscores Mustard Service’s dedication to fostering the local music community that has supported them from their early days. The combination of established acts and rising stars ensures a dynamic and memorable experience for attendees, solidifying Zest Fest IV as a must-attend event for music enthusiasts in Miami.
