It's easy to imagine that this hyper-productivity corresponds to a lack of the surprise effect which fortunately doesn't affect the focus of the songs. The measured tone of dream-pop in key lo-fi of The Reds, Pinks & Purples, Donaldson's placid vocal inflections, the introspective nature and the delightful contrast with noise residues and the constant and authentic melancholy of the dreamy melodies, safeguard the American musician from the abandonment of his ever faithful fans. But at this point in history they also prevent the evolution necessary for a definitive artistic emancipation.
It's a comfort zone the one chosen by Donaldson is pleasant, not without faint developments that do not alter the set of quotes from the Field Mice, Go Beetwens, Byrds, Rem and Smiths. The ten tracks slide with a naturalness and frankness that seduce, the lyrics are elegant but devoid of anything new compared to the rules of the record business and the solitary and painful life of the artists, a further element of an indolence that is partly perceptible in “Unwishing Well”.
Still, lovable songs like “What's Going On With Ordinary People?”, “Public Art” and the title track Gleen Donaldson adds at least a couple of pearls: the poignant beauty of “Dead Stars In Your Eyes” and the epic Red House Painters-style melancholy of the only instrumental track (“Goodbye Bobby”) are anything but the result of routine and yes are candidates among the most beautiful pages of the American musician.
Creeping yet vivid, there is a further element of novelty in “Unwishing Well”: a connection with Felt's nocturnal excursions that nourishes one of the most biting and troubled songs on the album, “Your Worst Song Is Your Greatest Hit”, as well as manifesto of Donaldson's poetic vision. The axis of reference is still the 80s. To the suggestions of Sarah Records have been added echoes of the more romantic Cure (“We Only Hear The Bad Things People Say”) and This Mortal Coil-style moods (“Faith In Daydreaming Youth”) which also ensure this new recording chapter has a depth and coherence that cannot be ignored.
That the most compelling song on the album is titled “Learning To Love A Band” is ultimately emblematic: The Reds, Pinks & Purples are a band that you need to know how to appreciate and love, starting with this new, more tender yet honest “Unwishing Well”.
05/08/2024
Daniel D`Amico for SANREMO.FM