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Ever been caught in the moody, atmospheric sounds of The Neighbourhood? I sure have, and it’s a sonic journey I can’t get enough of. With their signature black-and-white aesthetic, they’ve carved out a unique space in the alternative scene.
Ranking their albums isn’t just about the hits; it’s about the vibes, the lyrics, and those haunting melodies that stick with you. So I’ve taken on the challenge to sift through their discography and bring you my definitive ranking of The Neighbourhood’s albums.
Whether you’re a die-hard fan or a curious newcomer, join me as we dive into the evocative world of The Neighbourhood, album by album. Trust me, it’s a trip worth taking.
#1. “I Love You.” – An Intimate Debut
When it comes to The Neighbourhood’s discography, their debut album “I Love You.” takes the coveted number one spot on my list. Released in 2013, this album wasn’t just a collection of tracks; it was an intimate invitation into the band’s shadowed world.
“I Love You.” features the band’s breakout hit “Sweater Weather,” which has become a defining anthem of the 2010s. With its catchy chorus and evocative lyrics, the song encapsulates the album’s overall theme of complex emotions woven into melodious tracks. Yet, it’s not just “Sweater Weather” that demands attention – the album is laden with gems that showcase the band’s knack for balancing brooding lyricism with captivating soundscapes.
Tracks such as “Female Robbery” and “Afraid” plunge listeners into the deep end of the band’s sonic pool, mixing haunting melodies with lyrics that are raw and confessional. “I Love You.” isn’t just about the sounds – it’s an experience. The album’s production merits special mention, as it carefully layers guitar lines with moody synthesizers to create a backdrop that’s as immersive as it is emotive.
What sets “I Love You.” apart is its consistent mood. From start to finish, the album maintains a cohesive aesthetic, both visually and auditorily, that has become synonymous with The Neighbourhood’s brand. The black-and-white theme isn’t just a visual choice; it’s reflected in the music, with contrasting themes of love and fear, intimacy and isolation.
As an album, “I Love You.” works because it doesn’t just present songs; it invites listeners into a space. The Neighbourhood crafted a sonic environment that feels both personal and expansive, where fans can find solace in its melancholic beauty. My connection with this album runs deep – it’s a soundtrack to countless memories, both bitter and sweet, and it remains as impactful as the day it was released.
Through “I Love You.”, The Neighbourhood proved they could do more than just create hits; they could create an atmosphere that lingers, an emotional landscape that’s both haunting and beautiful. And for me, that’s what edges this album to the top of their achievements.
#2. “Wiped Out!” – Moody and Atmospheric
After the success of their debut album, The Neighbourhood had a tough act to follow. But their sophomore endeavor, “Wiped Out!”, didn’t disappoint. This album continues the band’s trajectory as the purveyors of mood and atmosphere, yet it pulls from a broader emotional palette, discussing more personal themes like grief and self-doubt.
The opening track, “A Moment of Silence,” delivers exactly that: a literal moment of silence. This unconventional start sets the stage for the complex and layered experience that follows. “Prey” is a powerful example where the band weaves vulnerable lyrics with a soundscape that’s both dreamy and haunting, anchoring the album’s themes of introspection.
Let’s talk numbers. In 2015, “Wiped Out!” debuted at number 13 on the US Billboard 200, a testament to the band’s growing influence.
| Achievement | Billboard 200 Position | Year |
|---|---|---|
| Debut | 13 | 2015 |
“Sweater Weather” might’ve been the hook for many fans, but “Wiped Out!” solidified The Neighbourhood’s place in alternative rock with tracks like “R.I.P. 2 My Youth”. This song, in particular, captured the existential angst of a generation.
The diversity in sound between tracks like the rhythmic “Daddy Issues” and the more subdued “Single” showcases The Neighbourhood’s adaptability and mastery over their artistry. Meanwhile, songs like “Cry Baby” explore the bounds of The Neighbourhood’s sonic landscape with a blend of vintage vibes and a contemporary edge.
Production-wise, “Wiped Out!” benefits from a meticulous attention to detail. Each track serves as a testament to the band’s growth, opting for nuances and subtle touches that enrich the listening experience. It’s clear that with this album, The Neighbourhood didn’t just replicate their previous success—they expanded upon it, offering a richer, more immersive world for their listeners.
#3. “Hard to Imagine The Neighbourhood Ever Changing” – a Bold Experiment
“Hard to Imagine The Neighbourhood Ever Changing,” released in 2018, marks a significant shift as The Neighbourhood experiments with electronic elements and varied music styles. This collection, a composite of EPs ‘Hard,’ ‘To Imagine,’ ‘Ever Changing,’ and new tracks, displays the breadth of the band’s creativity.
Delving into the sonic landscape of the album, tracks like “Scary Love” emanate a synth-heavy beat that’s as infectious as it is unexpected from the group known for their shadowy undertones. Simultaneously, songs such as “Sadderdaze” reflect the band’s ability to intertwine melancholy with melody, maintaining their original vibe whilst exploring new territory.
Fans’ Reaction to the New Direction
Many The Neighbourhood listeners were intrigued by the union of old and new sounds:
- Some celebrated the fresh approach.
- Others missed the homogeneous feel of earlier albums.
Regardless, The Neighbourhood’s foray into untapped musical realms with “Hard to Imagine The Neighbourhood Ever Changing” was a venturous move, garnering attention and driving debates within the community.
Production and Collaborations
A highlight of this album is its collaborative work. The Neighbourhood joined forces with artists like Denzel Curry and Ghostface Killah, infusing hip-hop into their aesthetic. This diversity not only showcases the band’s versatility but also extends their reach to broader audiences.
The intricate production is evident in tracks like “Compass” and “Stuck with Me,” where the seamless integration of ambient sounds and rhythmic nuances speaks volumes of their evolution as artists. It’s worth noting that the EPs making up this album were meant to offer snapshots of change, challenging both the band and listeners to adapt to and accept the inevitability of innovation within music.
#4. “The Neighbourhood” – a Return to their Roots
After experimenting with electronic sounds and diverse music styles in “Hard to Imagine The Neighbourhood Ever Changing,” the band made a noteworthy pivot back to its foundations with their self-titled album. “The Neighbourhood”, released in 2018, was seen by many as a harmonious blend of the old and new, with lush soundscapes and introspective lyrics harkening back to the moody atmosphere that initially defined the band’s aesthetic.
Within this self-titled release, The Neighbourhood incorporated a spectrum of emotive storytelling while maintaining their signature black and white thematic complexity. Songs like “Nervous” and “Void” illustrate their capacity for introspection, while tracks such as “Scary Love” (also part of the earlier discussed “Hard to Imagine” composite album) highlight their capability to produce catchy beats with an undertone of their matured artistry.
The decision to go self-titled at this point in their career underscored the band’s full-circle moment – a consolidation of their experiences, lessons learned, and growth as artists. By embracing the familiar – the effortless coolness that fans had come to love – and integrating evolved songwriting techniques, they succeeded in creating something both fresh and recognizable. Here’s a quick rundown of standout elements:
- Matured Lyrical Content exploring deeper emotional landscapes
- Cohesive production that pays homage to The Neighbourhood’s original sound
- Maintaining accessibility through memorable hooks and melodies
While some might argue that this album doesn’t break new ground, it’s undeniably a testament to The Neighbourhood’s understanding of their strengths. They remind us of their roots yet ensure that listeners don’t perceive them as rehashing the past. Instead, they stand firm on the foundation they’ve built, looking forward with clear eyes and a sharpened sense of self.
For avid fans and newcomers alike, “The Neighbourhood” serves as both an anchor in the band’s discography and a beacon of their enduring charm – proving that there’s power in revisiting one’s roots while still yielding to the natural evolution of creative expression.
#5. “Chip Chrome & The Mono-Tones” – Experimental and Eclectic
“Chip Chrome & The Mono-Tones” is a fascinating entry in The Neighbourhood’s discography, landing at number five on my list. When this album dropped in 2020, fans and critics alike noted its distinct departure from the band’s previous work. Jesse Rutherford took on a shimmering alter-ego, Chip Chrome, steering the band into an experimental phase marked by an eclectic blend of sounds and influences.
I found the album to be a bold move. It’s an auditory montage where glittering pop merges with melancholic new wave, showcasing the band’s willingness to dive into uncharted territories. Tracks like “Pretty Boy” and “Silver Lining” stayed true to their core introspective lyrics while immersing themselves in synth-heavy and futuristic vibes.
The album’s production quality is top-notch, no doubt a reflection of the band’s growth over the years. Every track feels polished, with layers of sounds that warrant multiple listens to fully appreciate the depth. It’s a clear evolution from their eponymous album’s sound but still carries that unmistakable Neighbourhood flavor.
What stands out with “Chip Chrome & The Mono-Tones” is not just the music but the visuals that accompany it – it’s a fully-fledged concept album. The band’s approach to aesthetics with this album, from the shiny, metallic imagery to the music videos, creates a whole experience that’s more than just about listening—it’s about immersion.
Given the mixed reception from fans, this album could easily be misplaced in their rankings. But within its daring experimentation lies its allure. For me, the album secures its spot in the top five because it’s a testament to The Neighbourhood’s ability to reinvent themselves while pushing the boundaries of their art. Their exploratory instinct in “Chip Chrome & The Mono-Tones” has added a valuable layer of diversity to their overall sound and artistic identity.
A Sonic Journey Worth Taking
Ranking The Neighbourhood’s albums has been a journey through a soundscape that’s as diverse as it is distinctive. Their self-titled album stands as a testament to their ability to blend the familiar with the fresh, a true anchor in their musical voyage. On the other hand, “Chip Chrome & The Mono-Tones” boldly steps out of the shadow, proving that risks can lead to remarkable rewards. It’s clear that The Neighbourhood isn’t just a band; they’re sonic storytellers who aren’t afraid to evolve. Their discography isn’t just a collection of songs—it’s an evolving narrative that continues to captivate and intrigue. Whether you’re a long-time fan or a newcomer to their music, there’s no denying that The Neighbourhood’s albums are a sonic journey worth taking.