By Aaron Sanders, Diversions Editor
Just when I thought the indie scene was an esoteric invention, local California band The Neighbourhood released their first album I Love You. proving that they aren’t the one-hit wonder I suspected they were.
I Love You. opens with “How,” a pulsating rush that hits you like an atomic bomb. Nearly polar opposite to the intimate, sorrowful tone of their EP I’m Sorry…, The Neighbourhood takes on a more neo-Linkin Park sound, and does it better than the original. Every single song is a feast for the ears. Catchy songs like the ever-popular “Sweater Weather” and “Alleyways” are universally likable, but every song has its own unique “catchiness” to it. There should be no desire to press the skip button at any point (except maybe out of sheer anticipation to hear the next great song).
There is an overarching brooding, sometimes diabolical yet upbeat energy to every song. “Staying Up” and the aforementioned “How” have an arresting ambiance to them that are near awe-inspiring.
Lyrically, I Love You. is all there. God, fear, love, death. It would be an understatement to call this a spiritual album. To try to translate its lyrics would diminish its effect.
If The Neighbourhood isn’t on your radar, it should be. Now. Right Now. They’re that good. Trust me.
Courtesy of pinkmafia.ca