Review: Fans have mixed feelings about The Neighbourhood’s new album “ultraSOUND”
The Neighbourhood, the band famous for their hit single “Sweater Weather,” recently released their latest album titled (((((ultraSOUND))))) on November 14, 2025. This album features a total of 15 tracks and has a runtime of 57 minutes and 4 seconds.
Prior to the full album release, the band unveiled three songs – “OMG,” “Lovebomb,” and “Private,” offering fans a glimpse into the overall vibe and style of the upcoming album. Originating from Newbury Park, California, The Neighbourhood is an alternative rock group established in 2011. The band comprises vocalist Jesse Rutherford, guitarists Jeremy Freedman and Zach Abels, bassist Mikey Margott, and drummer Brandon Fried.
The release of (((((ultraSOUND))))) also coincided with the band commemorating the 10-year anniversary of their album “Wiped Out!!.” In celebration, the band reissued the album with an additional 11 tracks, providing listeners with an enhanced musical experience.
The band’s breakthrough moment came with the release of their album “I Love You,” featuring “Sweater Weather,” the song that propelled them to fame. Their success was further solidified by topping charts and selling over 2 million copies of the album. Following this, The Neighbourhood took a hiatus after their 2020 album “Chip Chrome & The Mono-Tones.”
In November 2021, the band announced their break, shortly after drummer Brandon Fried faced allegations of sexual assault. Fast forward to August 2025, the band took to Instagram to announce their reunion, reflecting on personal growth and challenges faced during their time apart. Despite some mixed reactions, fans have shown immense support by selling out their upcoming World Tour for 2026.
Reviews of (((((ultraSOUND))))) have been polarizing, with some fans expressing disappointment over the album’s lack of originality compared to the band’s previous works. Others have raised concerns about Fried’s return to the group. Emma Yu, in an article from The Heights, described the album as a nostalgic experience, resonating more with long-time fans or listeners seeking comfort in familiar tunes.
Despite the mixed reception, many fans have appreciated the additional tracks included in the reissued “Wiped Out!!” album, showcasing nostalgia for the band’s earlier music. The Neighbourhood continues to evolve their sound, experimenting with new writing styles, instruments, and musical compositions while maintaining their signature essence.
Addressing Fried’s past allegations, bassist Mikey Margott emphasized the band’s belief in second chances and the drummer’s apparent growth since the incident. Although acknowledging the tarnished image of the band, The Neighbourhood remains committed to creating music as a group of friends, learning from past mistakes and experiences.
Since their reunion, the band has adopted a quieter online presence, possibly due to the controversies surrounding Fried and lead vocalist Jesse Rutherford’s publicized relationship with Billie Eilish. Despite these challenges, the album (((((ultraSOUND))))) signifies a new chapter for The Neighbourhood, blending past experiences with fresh perspectives to deliver a unique musical journey for their listeners.