Songs that are able to make you feel inexplicably sad are on a whole level of their own. You know the ones that hit deep, maybe giving you feelings of nostalgia and melancholy, making your heart clench just from the melody alone. Well, Adult Leisure’s ‘Boy Grows Old’ does this in an exceptionally brilliant way, making their track a great listen. Due to appear on their upcoming debut album, this one will definitely be a stand out on it.
Boy Grows Old fades in with a whispering hint of an instrumental before the drums crash in, smoothly and seamlessly, leading the track in properly. It has a bit of an 80’s coming of age film soundtrack vibe, a nostalgic feeling really seeping in. Singer, David Woolford said the song doesn’t romanticise times past like some of their other tracks, and though there isn’t this longing for the past that nostalgia usually brings, there are certainly reminiscent feelings associated with it. An understanding of the experience and the difficulties of getting older and reflecting on your childhood.
When the vocals join, the singing is soft and gentle, calming and subtle, which really matches the general aesthetic of the tone. Everything is captivating but in a way that still makes the tune really catchy and memorable as well. It’s honestly beautiful.
A particular standout on Boy Grows Old is the saxophone that features. Played by John Waugh who has featured on tracks by Sam Fender and the 1975, it’s such a unique aspect within the track that gives it that retro feel even more and gives it a snazzy edge. Playing for quite a while, you really get a chance to appreciate the talents of John Waugh and rightfully so.
Overall, it’s hard not to feel emotionally connected to the song, even on a first listen. Though you may not remember all the words, you will yearn to hear it again so you can memorise everything about it. It’s not a song you can get bored of easily. It’s amazing. Enough said.
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