A popular band, The Neighbourhood, went on hiatus in 2021 following the release of their 2020 album “Chip Chrome & The Monotones.” Band members were facing personal challenges that caused the temporary break up. Members struggled with addiction issues and decided disbanding would benefit their individual health. However, the four year break has come to an end since they announced their return via Instagram on Aug. 29.
Fans speculated their return to the music industry earlier this year when lead singer, Jesse Rutherford, began teasing messages on his social media. This included photos of the band working and other cryptic posts. This sparked excitement for fans as they realised the “breakup”was turning into a “make-up”.
PV students have seen these events in real time. “I just found out that they’re coming back a couple of days ago, and I’m super excited. Even though I’m not a huge listener, I look forward to what they may be releasing,” expressed senior Abby Howell.
The Neighbourhood first formed in 2011. They had a breakthrough in popularity as their single “Sweater Weather” skyrocketed on U.S. charts. The band has a discography including nine albums and seven singles listed on Apple Music. Their music is often described as “alternative” but features different aspects of R&B, pop and rock on specific tracks. Many songs have also become Tiktok famous, with thousands of videos using the band’s music.
It is expected to see a new album released relatively soon. The Neighbourhood is continuing their mysterious fashion as they have been playing songs on a speaker at Melrose Trading Post in Los Angeles. Videos on Tiktok and Instagram showed a small group of fans listening to the new music, as well as a clock outside that read “returning soon” with the time set to 10:12. Many think that this easter egg is the date of the band releasing a new album, which would be Oct. 12.
Many fans are excited about what is to come next for the band. “I am really excited that The Neighbourhood is coming back. Songs like ‘Sweater Weather’ and ‘Reflections’ make me really nostalgic about quarantine,” said senior Aisha Marrar.
However, at the moment there is no official statement saying when new music will be released or if it will be released at all. Many fans are still upset over past controversies with the group and are concerned with the ethics of them coming back. Others are holding up high expectations for the return of one of their favorite ensembles. “I hope that the new music is like what they used to make, even after everything that has happened,” says sophomore Stella Roemer.
The Neighbourhood is in the early stages of their reunion, and fans can only hope that their “new chapter” is one of good music and concert tickets.
