The Neighbourhood, Cherry Flavoured | Track Review 🎵

Though a bit quirky, Jesse Rutherford and The Neighbourhood deliver quite the alluring, charming, vibe-laden single with “Cherry Flavoured.”

The Neighbourhood is back.  That’s right, the Jesse Rutherford-led collective has a brand-new album arriving in 2020: Chip Chrome & The Mono-Tones.  Definitely a colorful album title.  Anyways, in advance of Chip Chrome…, one of the band released was “Cherry Flavoured.” Appearing as the sixth track, it is an alternative single that is certain to ‘tickle your fancy.’

First and perhaps foremost, “Cherry Flavoured” is a vibe. I’d argue, with The Neighbourhood songs, you’ve got to appreciate that the aesthetic and vibe are quite important.  That’s the case here, where we have a detuned pad and acoustic rhythm guitars that help establish a ‘druggy’ sound.  That druggy sound appears to be by design as ‘highness’ is mentioned throughout the record.  We get the first taste of it on the very brief first verse when Jesse sings, “Sweet and sour motivation / Wish I could keep concentration.” Of course, he doesn’t as the chorus addresses his unhealthy high… That said, the refrain, a distinct section that follows the post chorus (“Oh / Oh”) speaks of a more positive high:

“Cherry flavoured conversations with you
Got me hanging on
Down to Earth from all the waiting
Take me somewhere beyond.”

It seems as if Rutherford and company could be referencing fans and those who love them as opposed to potentially destructive drugs.  The second verse is longer and more dynamic than the first, which seems fitting given the progression of the record itself.  Of course, it’s followed by the chorus, post-chorus, and an abbreviated refrain – wacky form to say the least.  An outro, which is an about face, concludes this unique record.

Final Thoughts 

“Cherry Flavoured” is a quirky record in some respects, but ultimately, it’s quite intriguing as well.  Jesse Rutherford sings well, the sound of the record is unique, and as I emphasized early on – it’s a vibe.  Are there better written and maybe even better executed songs? Of course, but, something about “Cherry Flavoured” is special and definitely worth checking out.

The Neighbourhood • Chip Chrome & The Mono-Tones • Columbia • Release: 9.25.20

Photo Credit: Columbia