It’s incredible to think that Ava Valianti is just fifteen years old, given what we’ve heard from her so far.

By Graeme Smith

Feature photo by Ashley Plante Photography

Her latest single, Distant, is a wistful acoustic pop number that centres around Valianti’s soft and expressive vocals as they tell a bittersweet story of growing apart from childhood friends. After a stripped-back first verse, the track sets off at an indie pop canter, finally arriving at a powerful, memorable chorus that’s full of longing. Nostalgia runs through the second verse before things finish strong.

“Distant is about the silent sadness that comes with losing someone without a fight – just life pulling you apart,” Valianti shares. “I wrote it when I realised that sometimes, no matter how much you care, people drift away. It’s one of the hardest parts of growing up, but also one of the most real. Even though the lyrics are heavy, the upbeat tempo gives the song this fun, summer energy – like you’re smiling through the sadness.”

Since we first discovered her on these pages in 2024, Massachusetts, USA-born Valianti’s music has been going from strength to strength. We can only ponder her bright future and enjoy what she’s currently bringing us.

Distant is out now and you can give it a listen below.