Red Painted Red’s latest offering, "That Was The Reason Why," is a masterclass in the juxtaposition of beauty and darkness, wrapped up in an avant-pop package that's both accessible and subversively eerie. This British duo's fourth album, consisting of ten tracks and clocking in at nearly 40 minutes, continues to showcase their knack for blending catchy melodies with experimental motifs, glitch inserts, and unusual phrases, creating a sound that's hard to pin down but undeniably captivating.

From the opening track "Human Condition", it's clear that Red Painted Red aren't afraid to delve into the complex and often dark aspects of human nature. The lyrics list various roles and identities — from self-mutilator to scientist...and we saw so many (improvised) scientists in the recent years! — set against a backdrop of melodic synths and subtle beats, creating a contemplative yet unsettling atmosphere.

"Astronauts" is a standout track that combines ambient synth layers and a languid beat with lyrics about interstellar travel melting over childish reveries, lending a folk-like quality to the vocal melody. The song's imagery of floating in space and the inevitable loss of oxygen evokes a sense of both wonder and dread, encapsulating the album's recurring theme of beauty tainted by darkness.

"Come to Me" takes on an almost ritualistic tone, with lyrics that beckon a child through fire and darkness to join a mysterious entity (the opening pad-synth activated the memory of Badalamenti's OST of Twin Peaks, fed by references to the element of fire). The song’s hypnotic rhythm and ethereal vocals make it one of the more haunting tracks on the album, drawing listeners into its dark, dreamlike world.

"Field of Life" uses insect metaphors to explore themes of vulnerability and resilience. Lines like "I’m blind, I’m dumb, I’m dragonfly" and "I’m hurt, I’m dirt, I’m earthworm" highlight the fragility of existence, all set to a soothing yet eerie melody that lingers long after the song ends.

The track "Knife" is where the album's dark undercurrents truly surface. The serene music contrasts sharply with lyrics, that sounds like describing a person on an operating table (metaphorically?), unable to feel the knife that could save their life. This contrast between tranquil soundscapes and disturbing narratives is a hallmark of Red Painted Red’s style, drawing comparisons to the likes of Portishead and Massive Attack for their ability to marry trip-hop beats with unsettling storytelling.

"Silence", another highlight, features a slow, heavy beat and discordant synthesized noise, over which vocalist Yew delivers a performance that's part funeral sermon, part ritual invocation. The song’s urgency and the sense of a plea add a layer of emotional depth, making it one of the album’s most impactful moments.

The album’s production, mastered by Martin Bowes of Attrition, ensures that every track is polished yet retains an edge of rawness. The eclectic mix of genres—ranging from synthwave and trip-hop to dark wave and neo-folk—creates a dynamic listening experience that feels both cohesive and refreshingly unpredictable.

"That Was The Reason Why" is a beautifully strange album that manages to be immediately accessible while revealing more of its complexities with each listen. Red Painted Red have crafted a work that's both haunting and inviting, making it a compelling addition to the avant-pop landscape.

For fans of music that defies easy categorization, this album is a must-listen. It’s an eccentric yet enchanting journey through the darker corners of human experience, all set to a soundtrack that's as mesmerizing as it is unsettling.