Guess who’s back? The Neighbourhood just announced their reunion after a long hiatus, and fans are buzzing! But there’s a twist: drummer Brandon Fried is rejoining the band after a past controversy. What does this mean for their ‘next chapter’?

After a three-year hiatus that left fans wondering about their future, the acclaimed indie-pop band The Neighbourhood has officially announced their much-anticipated return, signaling a new era for the group. The announcement, shared via an Instagram Story, has ignited a flurry of excitement and discussion among their dedicated fanbase as the band prepares to unveil their “next chapter.”

The band’s break, which began in November 2021, allowed individual members to navigate significant personal challenges and explore life outside of their collective musical journey. During this period, members, including vocalist Jesse Rutherford and guitarists Zachary Abels and Jeremiah Freedman, faced various personal hurdles, from relationship breakups to family struggles, fostering a period of profound introspection.

A pivotal and controversial element of their return involves the reinstatement of drummer Brandon Fried, who was previously dismissed from the band in late 2022. This decision follows a highly publicized incident where Fried was accused of misconduct by Maria Zardoya of The Marías, leading to his immediate departure and a significant period of silence from the band.

The allegations surfaced when Zardoya publicly accused Fried of groping her under a table, labeling him a “complete creep.” The swift response from The Neighbourhood at the time saw Fried removed from the lineup, underscoring the band’s initial stance on the severity of the accusation and their commitment to addressing such serious matters.

In the aftermath, Brandon Fried publicly acknowledged his actions, issuing an apology to Maria Zardoya and attributing his behavior to being “under the influence.” He expressed deep regret and promised to seek professional help, a commitment that appears to have played a role in the band’s recent decision to welcome him back into the fold.

The band’s statement confirmed their reunion in the studio in November 2024, emphasizing that all original members are now ready to collectively embark on this new phase. This reconciliation suggests a period of internal dialogue and resolution, indicating that the members have worked through past issues to present a united front to their audience.

The Neighbourhood expressed profound gratitude to their fans for keeping their music alive and relevant during their absence, acknowledging the unwavering support that sustained their legacy. Their message conveyed a deep sense of honor and anticipation, promising to deliver fresh material that reflects their growth and renewed artistic vision.

This highly anticipated reunion, especially with the controversial return of Brandon Fried, sets the stage for a compelling narrative within the music industry. As fans eagerly await new music, the band’s journey forward will undoubtedly be watched closely, marking a significant moment for the alternative music scene.