The Neighbourhood successfully awes listeners with their latest album

By Grace Dietz

Online Arts Editor

The Neighbourhood excites listeners with their indie-rock vibes in the release of their new self-titled album, as they provide a fresh take on their 1980’s indie-rock style with carefully-crafted songs and interesting rhythms.

“The Neighbourhood” features prevalent messages of love, drug abuse, and self-realization that successfully depict the lives of the band members and their struggles. The strong vocals and electronic sounds of the album make for a creative and lively set. The easy transitions between songs and fluidity of the album keep listeners attentive and intrigued.

Released on Mar. 9 by Columbia Records, The Neighbourhood’s recent album consists of 18 tracks, written by the band’s vocalist Jesse Rutherford, bassist Mikey Margott, guitarists Jeremy Freedman and Zach Abels and drummer Brandon Alexander Fried. The album’s lead single “Scary Love” was released on Dec. 4.

Formed in Newbury Park, California in 2011, The Neighbourhood is an indie rock band that has released 2 other studio albums since 2012. The band’s hit song “Sweater Weather,” released in 2013, peaked at the #14 spot on Billboard’s Hot 100 playlist. Other albums from The Neighbourhood include “I Love You,“ released in 2013 and “Wiped Out,” released in 2015.

Rutherford’s drug problem shows throughout the album. In “Void,” Rutherford discusses the fact that he needs marijuana in order to feel alive. Rutherford passionately and truthfully shares his story and flaws with the listeners, making for an even more personal album.

The album’s first track, “Flowers,” includes powerful messages about the band member’s struggles, especially when Rutherford sings about his desire to produce the kind of music he prefers without being affected by fans’ criticism. This blatant honesty adds a genuine and personal aspect to the album.

The track “Too Serious” incorporates especially heartbreaking lyrics, such as “now I feel like I’m broken / now I feel like I’m choking,” as Rutherford wishes he could be less serious. With the passionate vocals, many listeners are attracted to the song itself and are able to understand the desolate aspects of anxiety and depression behind the song.

“Reflections” is undoubtedly the best track on the album. The relatable message of love and the easy-going vibe integrated into the song make it undeniably excellent. The strong guitar solos featured in this track tie in with Rutherford’s vocals perfectly and make for an intensely cohesive song.

The auto-tuned vocals and fast-paced beat in “Softcore” reveal the 1980’s concept that the album is based on. The one-of-a-kind electronic background instruments, such as the keyboard, reel listeners in and keep their attention throughout the song while maintaining an energetic vibe.

Rutherford does a remarkable job with focusing on the idea of conformity in “Nervous,” as he tells listeners that he feels subconscious due to fans’ criticism. Rutherford powerfully expresses the difficulties he experiences due to the public eye being on him at all times. In this way, Rutherford feels that his fans force him to change into a different person.

The Neighbourhood attracts fans once more with the sheer quality of their innovative album. The stunning messages in each song give meaning to the album as a whole and the energetic sounds and outstanding vocals generate a carefree attitude. The track order of the album triumphantly leaves listeners intrigued and eager for the band’s next album release.

“The Neighbourhood” is available for purchase on iTunes for $14.99. It is also available to stream on websites such as Spotify, YouTube, and Apple Music.