NEED TO KNOW
The Neighbourhood has announced their return.
On Friday, Aug. 29, they shared a now-expired Instagram Story announcing that the rock band — including drummer Brandon Fried — reunited in November 2024 after going on hiatus in 2021.
“In November 2021, after 10 years together, The Neighbourhood went on an indefinite hiatus,” The Neighbourhood wrote, per Rolling Stone. “As we entered our early 30s, we were faced with life outside of the band for the first time in our adult lives. Breakups, family struggles, and personal challenges.”
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They noted that in November 2022, “it became evident that Brandon’s struggles with substance abuse needed immediate attention, and we agreed it was best for him to step away and focus on his recovery.”
That month, Fried, 34, was fired from The Neighbourhood after Zardoya accused him of groping her at a bar, according to Variety.
“I was at a bar last night, and I was groped under the table by Brandon Fried, the drummer of the Neighbourhood. It was one of the most uncomfortable things I’ve ever experienced. I felt an invasion of my space, privacy and body,” the lead singer of The Marías wrote on the band’s Instagram account, adding, “Ya’ll need a new drummer, this guy is a complete creep.”
Per Variety, a few hours following Zardoya’s post, The Neighbourhood responded to the allegations on their social media accounts.
“We are grateful to María for coming forward. We have zero tolerance for any kind of inappropriate behavior towards women. As a result of Brandon’s actions, he will no longer be a member of the Neighbourhood,” they said at the time.
Per Variety, Fried also issued his own apology on his personal Instagram account.
“I am so terribly sorry to María. My actions were inexcusable and intolerable. They are not reflective of who I am as a person, but clearly a reflection of who I become while under the influence,” he wrote at the time.
Fried continued: “It is evident that I must address my problems with alcohol and substance abuse, which I am now seeking help for. I want to apologize to women who have been victims of any behavior that has left them feeling uncomfortable or violated. I am so sorry to the Neighbourhood and our fans for letting them down.”
In The Neighbourhood’s most recent social media post addressing their comeback, the band shared gratitude for “those who spoke up” about Fried’s issues.
“Your courage helped us get our friend the support he needed,” the band added.
The “Sweater Weather” band added that they are “proud of Brandon, the changes he has made and the progress he continues to make in his life.”
“Being in each other’s lives for over 20 years, when one of us is going through something, it impacts all of us,” they wrote.
The Neighbourhood then revealed that all five of the band members “reunited in the studio” in November 2024.
“Thank you to everyone who kept the music alive while we were away,” the band wrote. “We couldn’t feel more honored to do what we do and can’t wait to share this next chapter with you.”
Reps for The Neighbourhood have not yet responded to PEOPLE’s requests for comment. Reps for The Marías declined to comment.
