Donovan Woods has never shied away from confronting life’s intricate and often uncomfortable emotions. His new album, Things Were Never Good If They’re Not Good Now, continues this tradition, offering 11 tracks that delve deep into the nuances of personal reflection and relationship dynamics.
Opening with “Rosemary,” Woods sets the stage with a poignant exploration of the aftermath of a romantic disagreement. The song captures the lingering uncertainty and emotional turbulence of unresolved conflicts, as Woods plaintively asks, “Darling, are we OK yet?” and laments his constant presence in the way of what his partner desires.
Yet, the album offers moments of resolution and introspection as well. On “When Our Friends Come Over,” Woods collaborates with Madi Diaz in a duet that shifts focus from conflict to the small joys of shared companionship. The song highlights how interactions with others can help us rediscover the positive aspects of our relationships, suggesting that “it’s nice to see ourselves through someone else’s eyes sometimes.”
In tracks like “Well Read” and “116 West Main, Durham, NC,” Woods turns his lens inward, examining his own motivations and sense of self. These acoustic reflections don’t necessarily yield clear answers but rather underscore the ongoing quest for understanding and the inherent uncertainty in self-examination.
Not all is somber, however. “Back for the Funeral” offers a multifaceted view of returning to one’s roots after a friend’s tragic death. Woods captures the complex emotions of reconnecting with a past that is both comforting and laden with regrets, exploring the juxtaposition of nostalgia with the pain of lost opportunities and broken dreams.
Things Were Never Good If They’re Not Good Now is a testament to Woods’s ability to articulate the layered realities of life and relationships. Through its candid lyrics and reflective melodies, the album underscores that while life’s complexities are daunting, they are also deeply human. – Jason Felton