Suppose there’s one thing that Owen Young can teach us all: simplicity is often the key to a great song. In fact, his catalogue has been released not to much fanfare, and can be found only on Bandcamp. Yet, there’s aural and artistic gold in it, and it’s clear that the Canadian troubadour does deserve a bigger audience. ‘Always Was’ is his latest effort, a wonderful five-track EP.
From a sonic standpoint, the musical matter we meet in ‘Always Was’ carries all of the central features of an Owen Young record. Steeped in nostalgic allure, the EP travels through alt-folk, Americana and acoustic flair, doing so with wholesome energy and heartwarming imagery. The mood shifts between evocative, introspective episodes such as the title track and ‘For My Little One’ and more kinetic, colourful gems, such as ‘Everyday Heroes’ and ‘Sailing’. Young’s vocals are the start of the show, once again exhibiting their charming, hypnotic tone.
Delving deeper into the meaningful ethos that propels the EP, Young explains: “I came to think of it as my ‘Boomer’ album. I’m afraid that much of my post-WWII generation, the generation that deeply felt wide-eyed and sweet compassion and altruism in the 60s and early 70s, has become mired in a morass of greed and self-interest. The album reflects an ageing Boomer’s reaction to the reality that the good of the current times we live in is becoming lost deep in that morass.”
Recommended! Discover ‘Always Was’ now: