In 2023, some of the band members of McFly might be familiar to audiences through other media channels, such as The Voice Kids, Strictly, and their work as children's authors. However, the group has been a mainstay of pop music for 20 years, earning a massive following and impressive gigs along the way. No one has ever questioned their musical talent, and their latest album, Where Did All The Guitars Go?, is a great showcase of it.

In the title track, McFly poses a question that many of us have asked over the years, despite a recent resurgence in guitar music. The rock-pop group who shot to fame in the early 2000s suggest that there still isn't enough guitar music out there, arguing that rock and roll is good for the soul. The track ends with a subtle nod to McFly's dedication to carrying the flag for guitar rock music, no matter what happens to other groups.

While McFly's early work might have been perceived as a bit too poppy, Where Did All the Guitars Go? is a clear statement of intent to move away from that sound. The heavy guitar riff at the beginning leads into a very rocky introduction to the bass and drums, before the full band kicks in. The vocals have also evolved, although some of McFly's distinctive harmonies still make an appearance. This new song is sure to sound impressive live, as McFly imagines themselves performing in front of thousands, pumping out guitar riffs and enjoying a new lease on life as both they and their audiences have matured over the two decades they've been together.

Author: Phil Arnold

Phil Arnold is a musician, producer and music reviewer from Devon, in the South West of England. Whilst not writing music reviews, Phil also writes and records under the name of Ugbrooke.