Dillon Ryan is no stranger to New Brunswick’s art scene, and with his trusty band The Dream Romantic backing him up, the Music New Brunswick award-winner always seems primed to let his talent fly. In the new single, “So Lovely,” he and his band do just that. A pop-rock base, charming vocals, and an upbeat tone make for a surefire hit, whether you’re driving to the beach or dancing the night away.
“It was a bit of a test for myself to be able to apply a lot of the songwriting/crafting methods I have learned in the past 2-3 years, and then bring someone in at the end to put their stamp and touch on it,” says Ryan, speaking of produce John Mullane (In-Flight Safety), who mixed the track.
The tune is best described as if Tom Petty’s hypothetical second cousin spent a great deal of time listening to Tegan & Sara. Ryan’s smooth, versatile voice is positively magnetic on its own, and the instrumentals, particularly the guitars and keyboards, are a dream come true for those looking for a buoyant melody to sweep them off their feet, in spite of the tune’s melancholy undertones.
“The song was inspired by a quote I heard someone say a long time ago when they were describing their relationship that was falling apart,” says Ryan.
“There was something about hearing the words “It Started off So Lovely” that struck a chord with me.” “That feeling of when you first meet a partner or a friend and it’s literally the most beautiful and electrifying feeling and you want that initial feeling to last forever.”
“Two people would start off with a deep connection and would eventually drift apart without wanting to admit it; holding on to something that just isn’t there anymore.”
The tune almost offers a sheen of bravery in the face of some of love’s harsher realities, and whichever aspect of the song one chooses to embrace, it’s sure to be time well spent.