Navigate The Sky
Navigate the Sky is an indie-pop band based in Toronto.
Comprised of Brendan DiStefano, Shane Penhale and Josh Podolak, the trio releases a promising new single titled “Something Different” which is the first single entirely produced by the band itself.
“Something Different” captures the feeling of meeting someone new. “This song came at a time I personally never thought I'd meet somebody new and deeply connect with them like I have in the past. And then it happened,” explains DiStefano.
The Canadian band has shared the stage with artists like Tokyo Police Club, Virginia To Vegas, Honors, Tyler Shaw and Neon Dreams among others. They will be performing at Rivoli in Toronto on January 18th. Get your tickets here.
“Something Different” is now available worldwide.
Artwork: Matt Fletcher
Introduce the band - what's your story?
Our story is pretty simple, really. Three small town kids that grew up with a passion for music and production. Now, we’re in a band producing songs together. Brendan, Shane and Josh make Navigate the Sky.
How would you define Navigate the Sky, the band?
I like to think our songs define us best. They paint our true artistic self unapologetically without words or labels.
How have things changed for you since your very first release?
A lot has changed since 2015. We were a 5-piece, alt-rock group at the time. Eventually we became a rotating line-up of members, so we stayed a trio. The three of us always had an honest connection, it only made sense.
"Something Different" is your new single. What's the story behind this song?
This song came at a time I personally never thought I'd meet somebody new and deeply connect with them like I have in the past. And then it happened. The same day, I wrote the verse and chorus lyrics. I wanted to capture and hold onto that initial feeling.
You produced the single. What was the inspiration behind that?
Somewhere between pursuing authenticity and becoming better artists/producers, the three of us landed here. Funding can be hard to secure as an independent artist, and we’ve been producing on our own for quite some time. We didn’t necessarily feel ready, but took the leap of faith anyway.
What do you like the most about this song?
I really like the rhythms of the melody in the verses, it was great to step out of my comfort zone in that sense.
What can you tell us about the artwork?
Matt Fletcher did an amazing job bringing our creative visions to life. I was following a few LA artists on Instagram at the time and pitched him the idea of creating a ‘70s-esque abstract art painting/collage for the cover. The final result was exactly what we had in mind.
Releasing new music can be a "scary" thing, what gives you the confidence to share your music with the world?
This is a really interesting question I often ask myself. Honestly, I think it’s just the fact that we won’t be here forever. Life is temporary, and if you have the chance right now, you might as well take it (even if you don’t necessarily feel ready).
Why do you make music?
It’s therapy for me, at this point. I’ve found sincere comfort in expressing my thoughts and feelings through songs, ever since I picked up a guitar in middle school.
As artists, what biggest struggles do you have to overcome?
The biggest struggle I would say is overcoming (unfortunately) almost daily rejection. For every yes, there is about 100 no’s before it. You’ve just gotta learn to deal with that in a healthy way and progress forward.
What keeps you going?
All the little things. Every email, tweet, text or comment we receive from people all around the world supporting our music - it means more than I can explain. Gives us a sense of purpose I’ve never really felt before.
What’s your favorite thing about making art?
I think it’s the fact that you have an actual piece of evidence you can share with the world when all the hard work is done. The song itself is the reward, watching it grow is just a bonus.
Who’s helping you shape your artistry and career?
Not one person in particular, I guess it’s been all the other amazing musicians/artists/songwriters inspiring us by absolutely killing it in Toronto. Scott Helman, Valley, BRDGS, DCF to name a few.
What's the hardest part about being in a band? And what is the best part?
I’d say the hardest part about being in a band is constant travelling. Hours on the road can take a toll on your body and mind, but it’s a part of the job. The best part is the comradery of building a team with your best friends.
What advice would you give to anyone who'd like to form a band?
Don’t give up without a fight, it takes time and patience. Be willing to try new things, and hear each other's ideas. Most importantly, have fun.
What major lesson did you learn since the beginning of your career?
A major lesson I’ve learned (and still am learning) is to not take things so personal. I used to let rejection discourage me, but you’re never in a spot you shouldn’t be. If it’s meant to be, it will be. Trust in that.
What are your thoughts on today's music industry?
It’s an interesting time to be an artist. On one hand, there’s a million platforms to be heard without a label or management, connecting with fans is easier than ever. But, nobody is buying music, and concerts are becoming more and more expensive. I’m interested to see how things shift in the streaming world in the next few years.
As human beings, what do you want to accomplish?
So many goals. So many in fact, we’ve had to break them down a little into small weekly milestones. Things can get so overwhelming really quickly, we’ve found this way we get more of those goals checked off the list.
What is your definition of happiness?
Happiness has many definitions, it’s kind of subjective to the individual. To me, happiness is a state of contentment in your life. To be happy, you have to be willing to be compliant with not knowing and accepting things for what they are.
In your opinion, what would make the world a better place?
I think if everyone could find a way to live in harmony, despite differences, things will be okay. I know, MUCH easier said than done, but kindness and patience goes a lot further than you could ever imagine.
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