Despite good attention, The Neighborhood yet to reach peak
By: Eric Schneider – Staff Writer
With its debut album “I Love You,” The Neighbourhood has burst into the music scene as an up-and-coming alternative rock band. With performances on the Letterman Show and a spot in the Lollapalooza lineup, it is becoming evident the band is gaining recognition. Its first hit, and a significant reason for The Neighbourhood’s recent success, is the hit single, “Sweater Weather.” The song has aired on many popular radio stations and seems especially fitting for Dayton, Ohio this winter.
The California-based band features vocalist Jesse Rutherford, Bryan Sammis on the drums, bassist Mikey Margott and dual guitarists Jeremy Freedman and Zach Abels. The Neighbourhood’s music can be described in no other way: it’s dark.
But don’t take this the wrong way — its music is phenomenal. The vibe you get from listening to the music makes it appealing.
Fortunately, I was able to attend Lollapalooza, a music festival in Chicago. The Neighbourhood was the first show I saw. I couldn’t have asked for a better band to see to kick-off a weekend in Chicago, especially for a show around noon in the scorching sun.
Personally, I didn’t know much about the band aside from the fact they played “Sweater Weather.” As I looked around, however, I saw hundreds of people singing along to every song. Despite the fact that most of its music is dark and rather slow, The Neighbourhood went wild on stage. The passion the band members have for their music explains the growing fan base.
The band is gaining national attention in a variety of ways. Its fan base exceeds the approximate 5,000 people were present at the show during Lollapalooza. The band toured with Imagine Dragons, and played with them on the David Letterman Show in November. One of the songs, “Female Robbery,” also appeared on “Twisted,” an ABC Family TV show.
Jimmy Kimmel also sought after The Neighborhood, who played “Sweater Weather” live on his show.
After a couple of EPs, the band released the album “I Love You.” in April. Similar to the EPs, the album has a sort of sadness to it, heard clearly through Jesse Rutherford’s lyrics. Rolling Stone described the album as “moody” and “atmospheric.” The album, produced by Columbia Records, received 4.5 stars on iTunes.
If you appreciate alternative rock, you might agree with this critical praise. Personally, I would give the album 3.5 stars. “Sweater Weather” and “Afraid” are both phenomenal songs, and I enjoy the remainder of the album, however, I think this band has a while to go until it peaks.
The Neighbourhood will continue to gain popularity as long as it continues with the music that its making. Another
song or two like “Sweater Weather” could place the California natives among the top alternative rock bands out there.
For now, “I Love You.” is enough while the band explores a way to achieve its fullest potential.