The first album was inspired by 60s surf rock, but as their sound developed, I feel like the writing improved as wellSee hitting my late 20’s and early 30’s I’ve realised they weren’t ever particularly great songwriters. A lot of their lyrics are really quite cringe and basic when I look back. The instrumentals are fine but lyrically they’re pretty weak in places.
Mcfly lucked out with a deal on a major label straight away and a place on an arena tour playing to 12K a night for three week . They didn’t really have to work all that hard for success. They never had to deal with playing a pub on a Friday night to three people or deal with any kind of major rejection.
They’re now simply capitalising on the current millennial nostalgia train(even though it still baffles me that people are nostalgic for mcfly of all bands) which is why I think YDT somewhat failed. I don’t think it came from the heart. They’re stuck in 2007/8 and it wouldn’t surprise me if they did one more album and tour before calling it quits again. They haven’t moved with the times MTA proves this.
I know dougie has had his issues with mental health and addiction but I think he needs a project all of his own rather than being so reliant on McFly. He could do some mentoring for younger musicians or get into producing. Just something he can call his own.
I wouldn't say YDT was a flop because they charted at number 2 (behind AC/DC)...but I don't think it's their best album. The same can be said for a lot of bands. Eg blink 182 at their prime compared to now with albums like California. Bands these days are stuck in the "should we go back to our original sound for nostalgia or try to fit into current charts"