Download mp3: Growing Old

First composed during 1999, using the old music-software Fast Tracker II. Due to a lingering fascination with the song, and some demand to re-release it (along with other old songs like Student X) I have remixed and remastered this for release. Renoise 1.9's 'no interpolation' sample feature has allowed for a restoration that is as sonically lo-fi as the original, which was previously difficult to execute. Additionally, the modern software allows the opportunity to polish the mix so it doesn't destroy your bass speakers as it previously did. Still, compared to my latest work, 'Growing Old remastered' is a harsh and minimal listen.

For me the song is linked to a sadness of witnessing close loved ones grow old and the fear or uncertainty associated with that witnessing. To emphasize that heavy feeling I've kept the pace slow and each new 'pattern' (4 bars or so) I've activated a small speed change. Each one of these changes sees the bpm lowered by one. This usually isn't immediately noticeable, but over time the track sinks into a plod lacking the energy to deal with the issue it sets out to address. It grows old.