Track 1: "Then, Now"

Podcast

Aug 25

Written By Sycamore Consulting, LLC

Welcome to I Owe You an Explication, I’m your host, Sean Della Croce and today we’re discussing the song “Then, Now”.

Stream Illuminations here: https://ffm.to/qqk1jjd

Cover Image by Alex Crawford

All songs written and recorded by Sean Della Croce

Produced by Alan Deremo

What this Song is About

I have to be honest, "Then, Now" is one of my favorite songs on the album, and I'm so happy every time I hear that drum part kick off the record. I wrote this song in 2015, and if it's not clear from the lyrical content, this tune precipitated a breakup that was a major bullet point of my time in college. Without being too specific, the song is about moving from one phase of a relationship to another–from the so-called "honeymoon phase" into the more practical, sustained partnership. I think for many people that transition can be very difficult, and in this case that was true. By the end of this period there's usually enough blame to go around, and I think that's pretty much what this song says.

Music Notes

I’m honestly a little bit wary of discussing the musical elements of my songs. It’s not my wheelhouse as much as lyric writing, so I’m a little insecure, but I thought I’d share a little insight with you if you are interested in music theory at all. Something telling abut this song is that the first two chords are Em and Bm. If you know anything about music theory you know that those are not very conventional opening sounds for the ear when you site down to write a song. But I think they set the tone and sort of get the song off on the wrong foot for the right purpose.

The Lyrical Crux

I've discussed the overall message of the tune, and now, let's say I have to sum this song up in a tweet. It would have to be the phrase "I wish I knew the answer / I hope this goes away." If blame is passed around in the verses, this little bridge part passes it off to chance. Maybe this is something that will just go away. Anyone who has ever lived anything close to this song knows that is some serious wishful thinking.

Closing Reflections

When I really think about it, this song emerged from FEAR and to me, by the end, that resolves into HOPE. But that's just one side of the story, and the best thing about music is that we get to share it. So if you like "Then, Now" first of all, thank you! and second, why? What about this tune resonates with you and your life? Feel free to comment on the blog post that accompanies this episode.