“These Painted Flowers“ by Owen Young

The closing chapter of a four part album, “These Painted Flowers” is a seven track EP that ends all of the stories told in Owen Young’s full body of work, “Muddy River.” These tracks use intimate storytelling and folk instrumentation to paint narratives of love, loss, and growth for the listener. In many of the songs on this EP, Young expertly explores the strange experience of feeling conflicting emotions, like pain and gratitude, at the same time. This is especially common when reflecting on a past love, acknowledging the hurt you felt, and the perspective you gained because of that person. Young offers catharsis and solace for anyone going through those complicated emotions. 

This EP opens with “It Seems So Simple,” a vulnerable song about how trusting another person and opening up to them seems easy in theory, but when you actually try to follow through with those words and actions, it can feel very scary. Young sings “I think the best I can do is hold you close and let my love flow through to you.” It’s that beautiful sentiment of trying your best, and hoping that it will be enough. With warm, enveloping acoustic guitar strums backing the impassioned vocal, this track is a lovely look into the different experiences of love. 

The title track, “These Painted Flowers” again offers intimate vocals, this time backed by dancing piano accompaniment and light, tapping drums. The instrumentation grows along with the emotion throughout the journey of this song, introducing guitars, more intricate drums, and a beautiful horn solo that is both mournful and hopeful. Young reflects on a past relationship here, expressing regret that it ended while also knowing that it had to. The line “still, I’m thankful for our past and all you gave me” shows a poignant gratitude for the people who are no longer in our lives, but changed them all the same.

FOLLOW OWEN YOUNG:

Bandcamp

This has been added to our Lyrical Landscapes Spotify Playlist. Discover all the incredible artists featured and give the playlist a follow to stay tuned for more great music!