Stella Donnelly had temporarily withdrawn from the music world. But the songs from her third album besieged her like seagulls, said the Australian. Not aggressive seagulls, it seems. LOVE AND FORTUNE, inspired by endings, separations, farewells, is Donnelly’s most devotional record to date. “Standing Ovation” welcomes you with sparse synthesizer chords and vocals bathed in reverb.
Editorial recommendations
The church atmosphere is later swept aside by rousing jangle pop, but the first impression is not deceptive. The quasi-acapella piece “Baths,” which was sparked by a visit to a swimming pool, also sounds like solo gospel. Piano and synth ballads also dominate, which Donnelly’s clear, present voice gives a pastoral touch. This can be very beautiful and touching in its vulnerability.
A little more snappiness would have been just as nice. Especially since the twee-pop “Be Nice” consistently sets its title to music and “Feel It Change” turns up the volume but strolls through the life changes it sings about. “You can’t please everyone,” Donnelly encourages her counterpart in the – very pretty – “Please Everyone”. Her choir girl style doesn’t really fit in. But you feel comforted.
This review first appeared in Musikexpress 12/2025.