‘Three’ by Owen Young: Review
Photo credit: Artist EPK
Owen Young, a Southern Ontario native, is channeling a lifetime of experiences into his music with ‘Three’, the third chapter of his four-part album, Muddy River. With a fine arts degree from UCLA and a law degree from the University of Toronto, Young’s journey eventually brought him back to the landscapes of his childhood in Haldimand County. Now living by the scenic Grand River, he’s using this tranquil backdrop to dig deep and create music that speaks to the heart of life’s complexities.
‘Three’ is a departure from its previous chapters—’On A Day Like That’ and ‘Town Line’. It’s raw, personal, and born from the deep introspection that came during the pandemic shutdown. These three tracks aren’t just songs; they’re snapshots of a moment in time, tackling themes of love, frustration, and the struggles of modern society.
‘Voices In The Dust’ is a heartfelt, bittersweet message that spans time and distance, reflecting on cherished memories and the connections that never fade. This is followed by ‘Runnin’ Down The River,’ which is a nostalgic but disillusioned look back at an era brimming with hope, grappling with how those ideals have fallen short. The final track, ‘That Could Have Been You,’ is an unfiltered expression of frustration about living in a fractured world where compassion feels increasingly rare, and self-interest reigns.
Photo credit: Album artwork
Like the rest of Muddy River, these songs are deeply influenced by the upheaval of the pandemic. For Young, the stillness of that time brought a wave of reflection—on himself, on society, and on the connections (or lack thereof) between us all.
What sets ‘Three’ apart is how deliberately these tracks were grouped. They form a cohesive story, a shared space where each song breathes and resonates with the others. It’s not just an EP—it feels like an intimate conversation with a trusted friend, full of hard truths but also glimmers of hope.
Young’s music reflects the multifaceted nature of his own life. His lyrics walk the line between the personal and the universal, inviting listeners to find their own truths within his stories. With ‘Three,’ he’s crafted something contemplative and deeply resonant, a chapter that challenges us to sit with our reflections while finding beauty in the process.
As the Grand River flows quietly past his home, Owen Young’s music carries the same calm strength—a steady current of insight and emotion. ‘Three’ is more than just an EP; it’s a moment to pause, reflect, and find connection in a world that often feels disconnected.
‘Three’ is out now on Bandcamp
