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Photo: Caity Crone

Soft indie-pop songstress Carol Ades has released her magical new single “Dreams,” a sentimental summer bop that lives up to its title. Just in time for the start of Pride month, Ades writes about a queer crush and the emotions that come with it. In addition to outward affection, she also expresses the internal emotions that come with the potential of your first queer romance.

“Dreams” was written with close friends of Ades, which is effortlessly communicated through the spirit of the music. Queen of bass Blu DeTiger even hopped on the track, adding to the endless layers of dream pop excellence. On the collaborative creative experience of making “Dreams,” Ades told fans, “This song was one of the first things that pushed me forward and made me feel excited about loving girls in this way.” This newfound freedom can be heard clearer than any specific lyric or melody; it emanates through the song's very being. 

The production in the chorus stands out, dropping at times to emphasize the groove. As Ades sings about her sparkling fantasies, there’s an airy feel that makes the desperation endearing instead of depressing. “Dreams” is more than a anxious confession; it’s the unexplainable relief of being in touch with your full, true self. And most importantly, being ready to communicate that through your art. All of these elements, paired with Ades' strikingly delicate vocal delivery and addicting melody, come together to produce a natural straight-from-an-early-2000's-rom-com feel.

This is Ades' third release of the year, following “Better Than You Found Me” and “Hope Is A Scary Thing.” These three singles have a clear throughline, communicated through the visceral cover art depicting private school uniforms and deliberate body language. In this newest installment, Ades captures the magic of love in all its glory, both specific and universal. “Dreams” is a release of feelings, a secret you want to shout from the rooftops, and an excellent display of singular storytelling from this remarkable rising star. 

Listen to "Dreams" below: