Declan Mckenna 'What Happened to the Beach?' album review

Singer-songwriter Declan Mckenna is back with his third album which takes on new electric sounds and widens his discography depth.

The 25-year-old musician collaborated with Producer Gianluca Buccellati - who has previously worked with Lana Del Rey and Arlo Parks, to create an experimental, fun collection of tracks.

Declan Mckenna 'What Happened to the Beach?' album artwork (Accredited to Declan McKenna)

Track one - ‘WOBBLE’, embodies the feelings of uncertainty that come with change with juxtaposing images of ‘blue and grey’ used within the chorus. It recognises loneliness as a feeling that arises when - as the title conveys, life provides wobbles, whether it be due to  awaiting something, growing up or consequential results of change.

This bittersweet track is a highlight of the album and a strong opener for this new musical era of McKenna.

McKenna previously released album tracks ‘Nothing Works’, ‘Sympathy’, ‘Elevator Hum’ and ‘Mulholland’s Dinner and Wine’. 

Popular single - ‘Nothing Works’ is included on the album which emphasises the hopelessness of not succeeding when suppressing yourself to others, or more societal norms, rather than focusing more on yourself.

Tracks including ‘I Write The News’, ‘Breath of Life’ and ‘Honest Test’ definitely signpost the new genre exploration by the English songwriter.

‘Mulholland’s Dinner and Wine’ is a psychedelic, cosmic pop entry which greatly differs from McKenna's existing discography - but effortlessly grows on you with each listen. 

The euphoric track ‘The Phantom Buzz (Kick In)’ can simultaneously be interpreted as depicting the initial relief from substances, whilst also implying the short-lived adrenaline received from a ‘buzz’ of a mere phone notification.  

Single - ‘Sympathy’, has a 60s vibe to its composition - with an upbeat, catchy instrumental - it has potential to become a summertime classic. 

‘Elevator Hum’ is a melancholic, laid-back tune which highlights a theme of naivety, and was described as having captured the nostalgic essence of friendship" by McKenna himself.

Likewise, track ‘Mezzanine’ offers a dream-like, easy listening and was a firm favourite on first listen.

Admittedly, the album takes a turn from his earlier albums 'Zeros' and debut album - 'What Do You Think About The Car?’ but nevertheless is an album well worth a listen. 

Declan McKenna is to commence on a UK tour in support of the album which is to commence in Cardiff and will travel around the UK and Eire this March, 2024.

For further information on the album and tour, visit his site here.