Declan McKenna’s Psychedelic Odyssey Returns with ‘What Happened to the Beach?’
Buckle up for a wild ride because Declan McKenna is back with his third studio album, What Happened to the Beach? At 25, McKenna has already established himself as a musical chameleon, and this 12 track album proves he is shedding old skins and diving deep into the kaleidoscopic depths of his own psyche.
While his earlier works tackled weighty issues like politics and global warming, What Happened to the Beach? is a more carefree affair, a sonic cocktail served with a twist of sun-dappled psychedelia and unselfconscious playfulness.
He's inviting us to hop on a time machine back to the groovy ‘60s with tracks like “Breath of Light” and “Honest Test”–giving us all those retro pop feels that we never knew we needed.
But hold on to your sun hats because this album isn't just a stroll down memory lane. It’s a full-blown psychedelic escapade, dripping with nostalgia and bathed in California sunshine. McKenna’s vision for this album is crystal clear, and it’s packed with fun tunes that’ll have you bopping along in no time.
The moment I started listening to this album, it was clear that McKenna is back and better than ever. The opening track, “WOBBLE,” sets the stage with its funky guitar riffs and bittersweet lyrics questioning: “What happened to the beach?/Looks like it’s changing/We used to get to breathe the air/Now it’s thanks, pass the gas tanks.” This blend of nostalgia and contemplation permeates the album, transporting listeners to the sun-drenched shores of California while prompting deeper reflection on the passage of time and the evolution of life itself.
One of the standout tracks, “I Write the News,” captivates with its acoustic guitar vibes and upbeat tempo. McKenna’s lyrics, infused with wit and social commentary, paint a vivid picture of life in the city: “Yes, London prices might seem stiff/But they'll roll you a spliff so you can't refuse.” It’s a song that exudes power and confidence, making it impossible not to feel empowered as you strut down the street, soaking in the energy of your city.
“Mulholland’s Dinner and Wine” takes a surprising turn, offering a masterclass in indie-pop with its infectious summer anthem vibes. McKenna’s satirical take on the superficiality of modern life is both playful and poignant, as he sings about mundane pleasures amidst a backdrop of cosmic paper cuts and dangerous liaisons.
As the album draws to a close, “4 More Years” provides a cryptic yet dramatic finale, leaving listeners pondering the passage of time and the uncertainty of the future. Is McKenna predicting his own sell-by date, or is he just waxing poetic about the state of the world? Whatever the interpretation, it’s clear that What Happened to the Beach? transcends mere music, offering a profound exploration of the human experience.
In a music landscape saturated with superficiality and fleeting trends, Declan McKenna stands out as a beacon of authenticity and innovation. With this album, he not only cements his status as one of indie’s most innovative minds but also invites listeners to join him on a journey of self-discovery and introspection. So, what happened to the beach? Perhaps it’s not just the physical shoreline that's changing, but our perception of ourselves and the world around us.
