The Neighbourhood, an alternative rock band, released their fifth studio album “(((((ultraSOUND)))))” last week Nov. 14 following an indefinite hiatus that started in November 2021. The band was formed in 2011 in Newbury, California, about one hour from LA, and consists of five key members that play a specific role in the band, including Jesse Rutherford, guitarists Jeremy Freedman and Zach Abels, bassist Mikey Margott and drummer Brandon Freid. The band adopted the British spelling “Neighbourhood” rather than the traditional spelling of the word, advice given from their manager to provide the group a distinctive unique name in order to set a certain mood and overall feel of their songs. 

Over time, The Neighbourhood has developed a hybrid-like sound that blends alternative rock, indie pop, R&B and electronic touches. The five members were childhood friends that played in different bands before coming together in 2011. The next year, they released their first album titled “I’m Sorry…” followed by their debut album “I Love You.” in 2013, which included their hit single “Sweater Weather” that has four billion streams on Spotify. “Sweater Weather” significantly passes their second biggest hit, “Daddy Issues,” which has 1.9 billion streams. The album “I Love You.” was produced through their former label Columbia Records, with the record label working with many famous artists such as AC/DC, Adele, Tyler The Creator and others.

According to the members, the band’s hiatus in November 2021 occurred due to a focus on their personal health and solo projects. In August 2025, The Neighbourhood officially announced their return via Instagram and a series of other posts on other platforms. The group revealed that they reunited in the studio as early as November 2024. On Oct. 23, 2025, they dropped three new singles featuring “OMG,” “Lovebomb,” and “Private” to give a sample of what was to come.

The full album was released November 14, 2025 through Warner Records. The “(((((ultraSOUND)))))” reflects a return to the band’s roots while exploring new emotional territory. According to press coverage, the album draws inspiration from Brit-pop, but maintains the band’s signature Californian-indie vibe from where they first started off sonically. The lyrics show an intimate and self aware feeling that touches on heartbreak and vulnerability. Particularly interesting is the production of the single “Private,” with the drum track originated from a GarageBand loop, and Jesse Rutherford’s vocals were recorded on his phone, highlighting the unique personal nature of their creativity process. The Neighbourhood’s story is compelling–not just as a comeback, but as a narrative of friendship, growth and reconciliation. Their return after personal and professional challenges signals both maturity and resilience. The new release is more than a new album from a popular band—it’s a statement that the band is ready to move forward together, stronger, and with something to say.

This article was edited by Kate Duncan, Emily Logan and Alexander Gutierrez.