The Neighbourhood has reunited three years after firing its drummer, Brandon Fried.
The rock band disclosed their news in a now-removed Instagram Story on Friday, August 29, as reported by Rolling Stone, announcing their return will involve Fried in spite of allegations that he groped The Marías’ lead singer, María Zardoya, in 2022.
The Neighbourhood, including vocal talent Jesse Rutherford, guitarists Jeremy Freedman and Zach Abels, alongside bassist Mikey Margott, referenced the accusations in their return announcement, revealing that Fried has since dedicated himself to “his recovery.”
“In November 2021, following ten years of collaboration, The Neighbourhood embarked on an indefinite break,” the group detailed, per the publication. “Reaching our early 30s, we found ourselves confronting adult lives beyond the band for the first time. Relationship splits, familial issues, and individual hurdles.”
They noted that by November 2022, “it was clear that Brandon’s battles with substance misuse required urgent care, leading us to agree he should withdraw to concentrate on his recovery.”
The creators of “Sweater Weather” conveyed their appreciation for those who came forward about Fried’s problems, saying, “Your bravery was instrumental in securing our friend the assistance he needed.”
The Neighbourhood reiterated their ongoing support for their bandmate, expressing that they are “proud of Brandon, the transformations he has achieved, and the progress he consistently pursues 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,” the post continued.
Zardoya accused the drummer of unsolicited lewd behavior nearly three years ago.
“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 Marías’ lead singer wrote on her band’s Instagram account in November 2022.
She then advised The Neighbourhood, “Ya’ll need a new drummer, this guy is a complete creep.”
Hours later, the group responded to her accusations and revealed Fried’s exit.
“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.
The drummer also addressed Zardoya’s allegations 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,” Fried wrote.
“It is evident that I must address my problems with alcohol and substance abuse, which I am now seeking help for,” he continued. “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 their recent Instagram post, The Neighborhood revealed all five band members “reunited in the studio” in November 2024.
“Thank you to everyone who kept the music alive while we were away,” they concluded in their comeback announcement. “We couldn’t feel more honored to do what we do and can’t wait to share this next chapter with you.”
The Marías’ rep was not immediately available for comment.
