We all have those artists and songs we hear that strike the right chord and make us fall in love at first listen. They’re the reason we refresh social media pages, tour schedules (virtually, for now) and Spotify profiles — because we can’t miss a single release.
This is Love at First Listen — a new series introducing you to the emerging, and established, artists with new music guaranteed to upgrade your playlist.
Welcome to the world of QUIETLOVE, a new project fronted by Canadian singer-songwriter Brendan DiStefano. You may recognize Brendan from his previous solo releases or as the lead singer of indie-pop trio Navigate the Sky. After four years of behind-the-scenes planning, QUIETLOVE represents a name and identity that he says “exactly conveys the right tone” for the alt-pop music he’s been writing.
Get ready to fall in love at first listen with “The Dream,” QUIETLOVE’s catchy, self written and produced debut single about battling through self-doubt and remembering why you started your journey. Take it from me that this is just the beginning of a very exciting journey ahead for QUIETLOVE!
While you play “The Dream” on repeat, check out my new interview with QUIETLOVE below for the inside scoop on defining ‘the dream,’ the songs he’s loved at first listen, and what’s next.
“The Dream” is your first single as QUIETLOVE. What does this song mean to you, and why did you think it was the perfect song to introduce your new project?
“The Dream” is a very honest song for me. It’s about chasing your dreams and the harsh realities that sometimes come along with doing so. I felt the message was relatable to my peers, and I knew it had to be the first single to establish who I am. I hope someone hears it and it helps them through their own battles.
Where were you the first time you heard the final track and what was your reaction?
I’ll never forget. I was on the TTC in Toronto and I received the first mix to my email from my mixing engineer, Jack. I remember riding around the city and listening for the first time with an ear-to-ear smile. It was definitely a memorable moment for me.
Inquiring minds want to know: What exactly is “the dream”?
I honestly think it varies for everyone. Whatever you define as success to yourself, is the truth to you. To me, ‘the dream’ would be making music for the rest of my life and living comfortably doing so.
For fans who have followed you throughout the years, how would you describe your sonic evolution?
It’s tough to describe. I’d say the songs lyrically have gotten more and more personal, closer to the heart. Sonically, a year or two ago now, the band and I started producing ourselves, which I think really helped find an authentic sound.
How do you plan to continue, or even integrate your releases as QUIETLOVE with and/or alongside the work you’re doing with your band, Navigate the Sky?
I think it’s a fun way to keep the creative energy flowing, whether I’m writing as QUIETLOVE or with the boys. I really look up to bands like The Maine and Alexisonfire where they’ve managed to steadily release songs over multiple projects or side projects. As a listener or fan, you’ll always have new content to consume.
Music has been a close friend to so many of us over the past year. Can you share some of the artists or “quarantine anthems” that you simply had no choice but to love at first listen?
Oh, too many to count. I recently discovered a local Toronto-based artist, Verzache, who produces himself and is very DIY as well. Check out his song called “Think About It.” He’s definitely one to watch blow up over the next year or so — mark my words. Also, “Listerine” by Dayglow has been on repeat the last month or so.
What’s next for QUIETLOVE?
More everything. Now that my debut single is out, I feel like I’ve finally established who I am to the world. I’ve still got so much more to say. I’m looking forward to the future of QUIETLOVE. Keep your eyes peeled to my socials for more!