Long awaited indie release leaves listeners lost in sonic ‘neighbourhood’

photo courtesy of The Neighbourhood’s Instagram

The Neighbourhood, well-known for the song “Sweater Weather,” released (((((ultraSOUND))))) on November 14, making it their first album after a hiatus of five years. Supported through a world tour beginning in March, (((((ultraSOUND))))) matches their previous indie style, but on the calmer side. Songs tend to be slower with moodier, more emotional undertones in comparison to earlier pieces which were often raw with intense instrumentals. While The Neighbourhood may have released over 15 new songs, the quality and individuality that once brought fans together simply isn’t what it used to be.

In 2020, Chip Chrome & The Mono-Tones was released, heavily contrasting the usual alternative music of the group’s past. Many fans may have expected (((((ultraSOUND))))) to follow a similar pattern, with the band experimenting in new areas of expressive style, but it actually offers a throwback to their earliest albums. That being said, it’s also notable that the 2020 album was less appreciated because of tonal differences. It felt forced for a traditional rock band to produce so many acoustic or futuristic songs. 

(((((ultraSOUND))))) compares to I Love You from 2013 because of the melancholy lyricism and overall composition. Both albums evoke feelings of hopelessness. The newer song, “Rabbit,” conveys that the protagonist “never thought about ever reaching out” and was “tired of waking up, sick of feeling down.” This almost provides a flashback to the song “Float” where it’s stated that “they,” most likely referring to people in positions of higher power, “show [him] how to swim… but it doesn’t mean [he’ll] float.” It’s being insinuated that he stopped asking for help after realizing that no one truly cares enough, leading him to live with deeper problems and less purpose. Just being given vague guidance won’t equip him with all that he needs to thrive.

Another example of this parallelism runs between “Pretty Boy” from Chip Chrome & The Mono-Tones and “Stupid Boy” from the newest album. “Pretty Boy” explores a story of unity and love, stating that, “you’re the only thing I need… with me.” It expands on the idea that love is the only gift that’s able to survive in times of crisis. On the other hand, “Stupid Boy” states, “[I] wanna go where you’ll never see me again… never want to speak to you again.” Compared to the previous song, it invites a darker conclusion. The protagonist learned that sometimes love won’t be enough and will only bring more destruction.

While the long-awaited album did give The Neighbourhood an acceptable chance at redemption after their hiatus, it does not break much in the way of new ground. It seems that they’ve tried to incorporate the elements of their older work, but toned down Jeremy Freedman and Zach Abel’s unique guitar parts. Even Brandon Fried’s drumming and Mikey Margott’s bass sounds duller, although Jesse Rutherford’s vocals do stay consistent. “Holy Ghost” had potential because of its melancholy mood, but the bass was overpowering and didn’t have a unique rhythm. “Stupid Boy” had the most vocal experimentation, with Rutherford being on the verge of screaming with new emotional expression. “Hula Girl” was also very well-balanced and reminiscent of the earlier album Wiped Out!. Other than that, the majority of the tracks lack interesting components.

In conclusion, (((((ultraSOUND))))) was a good attempt at a comeback, but not a great one. The Neighbourhood’s music is beginning to get repetitive. Not enough new exploration is being done, resulting in uninteresting songs. While there were some good tracks, quantity seems to have been valued over quality, and if this keeps up then The Neighbourhood may be coming to an end in their music career. Although The Neighbourhood’s previous albums Wiped Out! and I Love You can’t be matched, (((((ultraSOUND))))) was a mediocre attempt, leaving fans with unmet expectations and a longing for the band's early authenticity.

Grade: C+

The Neighbourhood releases watered-down album lacking individuality compared to previous works.

by Samreen Chahal

Published December 1, 2025

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