Following their EP ‘Hard,’ alternative band The Neighbourhood returns with a new, incredibly groovy single, “Scary Love.”

Alternative band The Neighbourhood returned in 2017 with an intriguing EP, simply titled Hard.  Following the five-track effort, the band releases a new single, entitled “Scary Love.” Notably, even if love is scary, the music itself isn’t. This is by far one of the grooviest songs that the band has released.  Following a brief, mysterious intro (all of four seconds), the inescapable beat takes over. Clearly, “Scary Love” sounds more like a pop song, even if it’s in the alternative sense.  There’s driving synths and the electronic palette is clear from the jump.

The vocals are mixed in the background on the verses as opposed to the forefront.  Calling them commanding would be quite the overstatement.  The effects-laden pipes of Jesse Rutherford seem to be the M.O.  The vocals are certainly playful, and ole boy seems to be about that play.

“Even better when you first wake up / Than anybody else I’ve fucked / Baby, I got good luck with you / I didn’t know we’d get so far.”

Following two verse worth of these ‘back-mixed’ vocals, they return on the bridge.  On the chorus, Rutherford is front and center, which is fitting to the more overt, confident sound of the chorus.  Rutherford sings:

“Your love is scaring me / No one has cared for me / As much as you do / Ooo, yeah, I need you here.”

Final Thoughts

Okay, okay.  Jesse Rutherford and The Neighbourhood aren’t exactly the most poetic beings ever, evidenced by “Scary Love.” But, the band makes their point on the hella groovy, infectious single.  This is definitely and enjoyable song, even if it’s not ‘the second coming.’ The vibe is real, and vibe is everything… these days at least.

The Neighbourhood • Scary Love – Single • Columbia • Release: 12.5.17

Photo Credit: Columbia