"Three EP”: Owen Young Captures Introspection and Humanity in Three Songs
With Three, Owen Young offers a reflective and heartfelt EP that explores themes of personal connection, social discontent, and resilience. As the third installment in his Muddy River series, this collection departs from the more rural and nostalgic tones of On A Day Like That and Town Line. Instead, Three takes on broader, universal themes inspired by the upheaval of the pandemic years.
Each of the three songs on the EP reflects a different emotional perspective, tied together by introspection and a longing for understanding.
“Voices in the Dust”: Opening the EP, this song is framed as a heartfelt letter to an old friend. With gentle instrumentation and a wistful melody, it speaks to bonds that endure despite the passage of time and changing circumstances. The reflective lyrics evoke feelings of nostalgia and longing, making it a poignant beginning to the EP.
“Runnin’ Down the River” brings a stronger folk sensibility. The river is used as a metaphor for life’s unstoppable flow, capturing the tension between freedom and inevitability. The melody is both steady and uplifting, offering a sense of resilience amidst uncertainty. It’s a track that feels rooted in the timeless storytelling traditions of folk music while reflecting the struggles of the present.
“That Could Have Been You” closes the EP with a raw and unapologetic tone. The song critiques selfishness and societal failures that became glaringly visible during the pandemic. Its stripped-back arrangement ensures the biting lyrics take center stage, leaving a strong and lasting impression.
The songs on Three are deeply tied to the shared experiences of the pandemic
loneliness, frustration, and the need to reflect on what truly matters. While each track has its own perspective, together they create a narrative about navigating challenges with hope and self-awareness.
Unlike the first two parts of the Muddy River series, Three shifts from personal memories to broader, societal themes. This evolution demonstrates Young’s versatility as a songwriter, capable of addressing deeply personal and collective struggles with equal sensitivity. The production is simple yet effective, allowing the stories and emotions to take center stage.
Owen Young’s Three is a powerful EP that captures the emotional complexity of recent years. Its thoughtful lyrics, understated melodies, and universal themes make it a meaningful listen for anyone seeking music that speaks to resilience and connection.
This is a collection of songs that feels both personal and far-reaching, cementing Young’s place as a storyteller capable of reflecting the world around him with honesty and care.
