The California based band The Neighbourhood has brought us hit after hit and that has not stopped with the recent release of their most recent album, Chip Chrome & The Mono-Tones. This album introduces us to Jesse Rutherford’s new persona Chip Chrome as guitar man Jeremy Freedman, bassist Mikey Margott and Drummer Brandon Fried are The Mono-Tones.
The 31 second intro “Chip Chrome” could not have been a better way to start this album as the spacey feel makes it seem as if youre falling into a rabbit hole that very much reflects the way the following songs make me feel.
“Pretty Boy” was not a song I was expecting on this album but it was a treat in every way. The vocals were sweet and I enjoyed everything about the instrumental.`
The intro to “Lost In Translation” reminds me so much of the 60s and the way it switches into a modern pop feel is so incredible. I can see this becoming anyone’s favorite on this album from the way ot slows down just to pick back up again. This feels like a rollercoaster I never want to get off of.
“Devil’s Advocates” is the exact kind of song I find myself falling in love with again and again.This poppy hit makes me want to listen to it while i’m in a convertible going down a long windy highway.
Jesse Rutherford or should I say Chip Chrome never disappointed when it comes to vocals. “Hell or High Water” is certainly no exception.This short song is so effective in making me want more.
The slow pace and vocals in “Cherry Flavoured” truly are the type of thing I like to hear when it comes from The Neighbourhood. This song speaks to me on every level and makes me feel like I am floating.
“The Mono-Tones” gives lyrics that I can relate to on almost every level. This track is so catchy that I find myself singing it over and over again. This will not leave my head and I do not think it will leave yours either.
BooHoo has this siren intro that is both intriguing and completely confusing.I like this song for the way it does not belong in any particular genre in itself and is very much could be a stand alone single you couldn’t get tired of.
The instrumental in “Silver Lining” reminds me in the best way of Fleetwood Mac and it is truthfully euphoric. Jesse’s vocals in this song are superior to the other songs on this album. This is a very powerful continder on this album.
I was completely lost in a daydream as I listened to “Tobacco Sunburst.” This song is completely and truly a hallucination I never want to end. Everything about it from the sweet acoustic in the beginning and dreamy vocals is a perfect recipe for a hit.
“Middle Of Somewhere” is my favorite song on this album. The vocals we are presented with are phenomenal. Acoustics in this song make me so happy and the melodies match so well. I am entranced by this song in a total body take over way.
If there was a band that I listened to and was never truly bored with what they put out that band would be The Neighbourhood. I have loved every unique release of theirs and I look forward to what comes next as this is their fourth and last album under their contract with their record label.
