Declan McKenna

ABOUT ARTIST

Declan McKenna's music journey has been nothing short of extraordinary, from smash hits “Brazil”, “British Bombs”, and “The Key to Life on Earth” to his forthcoming third album, What Happened to the Beach? The album features recently released lead singles “Sympathy” and “Nothing Works”, with Declan embarking on his most exciting undertaking yet. In support of his upcoming record, the sharp British singer-songwriter announced earlier this month that he’ll be heading off on a 14-date run of shows across the UK in 2024 after his debut shows down under, stopping at London’s Alexandra Palace, Declan’s biggest headline show to date.

Still in his early 20s, Declan is approaching a new, more personal era as a songwriter. What Happened To The Beach? is weird and wonky and full of tone and colour, the sound of a songwriter enjoying himself and gleefully defying expectations. Where previously his biggest tunes tended to hurtle along at 100 miles per hour, Declan taught and trusted himself to take his time and let the listener soak in the ambience. The record was produced in California last year with Gianluca Buccellati, whose previous projects include Arlo Parks and Lana Del Rey. This is an album that revels in both space and atmosphere, evoking the sunshine Declan basked in, and it returned to the UK sounding beautifully baked.

Naturally, an album written in response to the intensity of the last few years, both personal and globally, has moments of darkness running through it. However, the demons McKenna once focused his writing on as a teen, such as corrupt FIFA officials or the oppressive grip of the right-wing media, are left aside this time around. “If every song features a lyrical statement, then it loses some of its impact, too. I haven’t let go of that aspect of myself, but I don’t want to live out that style forever” he notes.
 
“Sympathy” is the first offering from McKenna’s forthcoming album. The buoyant and bold leftfield pop song represents the effortless and uncomplicated style of writing that he has been focusing on. This was followed up by the euphoric second single, “Nothing Works”came out of the frustration of feeling boxed in and tied to expectation. At its core, it’s a celebration of being true to yourself.
 
Following an early evening slot on the main stage at Reading and Leeds Festival behind Billie Eilish, and extensive touring of the US already this year, Declan McKenna is ready for the next bow, this time in Australia! Declan’s Sydney and Melbourne dates accompany his festival appearances at Heaps Good over the festive season.