Zeros is the highly anticipated second studio album to be released by English musician Declan McKenna three years after his debut album, What Do You Think About The Car, back in 2017. Despite delaying the release a handful of times due to the COVID-19 pandemic, McKenna is back with a fully fleshed out concept album that flows like a story; tackling topics such as global warming, beauty standards, and religion, the 21-year-old artist manages to weave the voice of a generation between delicate and complex lyrics.
This album is the total package. With rock influence from the 60s and 70s implemented into the instrumentals, as well as more modern additions of synths and electronic pop elements, each song adds a little more glitter to the term “glam rock”. There are energetic highs and mellow lows to be encountered when listening to the album, all accompanied by raw vocals that seem more carefree than McKenna’s previously delivered work. Letting loose and rocking out is nothing entirely new when it comes to the indie rock genre, and Zeros embraces this with a shiny, retro-futuristic twist.
“Beautiful Faces”, the lead single of the album, is a natural progression from McKenna’s sweet beginning vocals to a roar of unified voices demanding to be heard when the chorus takes shape. The electric guitar riffs go from a solid presence to completely unhinged in an enjoyable fallout, making it a fun listen for those looking for a new anthem to bang their heads along to. “Emily”, another song that appears on Zeros, is on the opposite spectrum of sound in terms of its softness and melancholic drawl. A unique mix of funky synth work, persistent drum beats, and folky acoustic guitar give McKenna’s voice an almost haunting quality as he explores every emotion possible through his work.
Electric, thought-provoking and experimental, Declan McKenna presents Zeros as a ticket straight to space — or at least, what music would probably sound like when far enough out of orbit. A highly dynamic and enjoyable listen, this album proves McKenna’s path as a standout indie artist is just beginning.
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