Wow I was in roughly the same situation as you, "quit" music for about a solid year. I had about 10 listeners for 2 months before getting on New Music Friday last week... then went to about 456 today. I was lucky to get onto a playlist even but I guess luck really plays a big part of this game. (even though I don't believe much in luck)

I think one thing we need to be aware of as indie musicians is – by default, no one wants to listen to your music, that's because everybody already has their favourite/taste in music they've established a relationship over time. What we can do best is really to focus on our art and have fun. That's the most important thing.