EP: Three by Owen Young

THREE: A POWERFUL THIRD CHAPTER OF MUDDY WATERS!

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Owen Young’s Three, the third chapter in his four-part album Muddy River, is a deeply introspective and emotionally charged EP that stands as a departure from its predecessors. While On A Day Like That and Town Line offered rich Americana storytelling steeped in nostalgia and rural landscapes, Three emerges as a raw and contemplative collection born of the pandemic’s upheaval.

Comprising only three tracks—a letter, a lament, and a rant—this EP encapsulates themes of love, frustration, and societal reckoning. Young’s reflective lyricism explores the personal and universal in equal measure, addressing pressing issues like homelessness, colonialism, and lost ideals. The songs serve as both a critique of rampant self-interest and a plea for compassion, weaving narratives that challenge listeners to confront uncomfortable truths while finding hope within them.

“Voices in the Dust” is a stirring opener, an ode to resilience and justice. Written as a tribute to a friend who has spent his life advocating for human rights, the track blends poignant storytelling with evocative melodies. Lines like “We met the ghosts of the old ones there / They chose you by ancient design” highlight Young’s ability to connect the past, present, and future through poetic introspection.

“Runnin’ Down the River” follows with a lament for lost opportunities. Set against a backdrop of the Sixties’ ideals and the environmental destruction of modern times, the song carries a bittersweet tone, reflecting on humanity’s failure to fulfill its potential. Its lyrical depth, paired with understated instrumentation, underscores Young’s knack for capturing the weight of collective disillusionment.

The EP closes with “That Could Have Been You,” a seven-minute plea for empathy. Co-written with Harry LaForme, the song tells stories of those marginalized by society—homeless individuals, survivors of colonial violence, and victims of abuse. Its haunting refrain, “Before you judge another living a life they didn’t choose, imagine yourself walking in their shoes,” resonates deeply, making it the EP’s emotional core.

Three encompasses thoughtful arrangements and understated melodies that carve the way for the raw honesty of his lyrics, creating an experience that feels both timeless and immediate. As part of the Muddy River saga, this EP amplifies Young’s voice as a storyteller committed to shining a light on humanity’s complexities. It is a must listen, indeed!