As we live in a constantly connected world, it sometimes feels as if we’re under constant surveillance. With that in mind, and inspired by the George Orwell novel of the same name, ‘1984’ by Mitchell Young is an anthem that’s fitting for the modern age. Lyrics concerning a fear of even “turn[ing] on the phone” and a suggestion that people feel a need to suppress their feelings seem especially pointed at a time where it doesn’t always feel like there’s much to be positive about.

However, Young has not hit the world with something utterly bleak. He balances his concerns with a superbly uplifting arrangement where buoyant rhythms and a wall of chiming guitars reign, creating a perfect backdrop for his very natural vocal. It’s a single that, by the second listen, sounds like an indie rock classic, and a world of influences from the 90s really helps to reinforce that. With drums supplied by James Guercio – the son of conductor Joe Guercio, a man with strong musical ties to the legendary Elvis Presley – the track can, in its own way, boast a musical legacy as well as a strong literary inspiration, giving Mitchell’s solo career a solid foothold as he continues his journey.

If this is your first listen to Mitchell, ‘1984’ is the kind of song that’ll send you in search of previous recordings, and remaining hopeful that forthcoming material will be just as strong

Take a listen below.