What Happened to the Beach?

What Happened to the Beach? represents a significant stylistic pivot for Declan McKenna, moving away from the glam-rock theatricality of Zeros (2020) toward a more experimental, lo-fi psychedelic pop sound. Recorded largely in California with producer Gianluca Buccellati, the album reflects a newfound sense of creative freedom and a desire to escape the 'voice of a generation' label. The songs are characterized by their 'wobbly' textures, unconventional structures, and a focus on sonic atmosphere over traditional pop polish. While McKenna’s signature wit remains, the lyrics are more abstract and personal, reflecting his experiences in Los Angeles. Critics have noted the influence of Tame Impala and Unknown Mortal Orchestra in its sun-bleached production. The album stands as a bold statement of artistic independence, prioritizing the joy of sound and the exploration of new textures over the pursuit of radio-ready indie anthems.