Why did The Neighbourhood go on a hiatus? Details explored as band announces "next chapter"

Why did The Neighbourhood go on a hiatus? (Image via YouTube)
Why did The Neighbourhood go on a hiatus? (Image via YouTube)

On August 30, 2025, The Neighbourhood posted that they are moving into a “next chapter.” That short message followed more than three years of relative inactivity and came after a stretch of personal strain, a public controversy, and some quiet studio sessions.

The band’s return has reignited interest in what caused their break and how they arrived at this moment. The Neighbourhood first stepped back from touring and promotion in late 2021 and early 2022, saying they needed time away from the road and media. During that pause, members pursued solo projects and dealt with private matters.

In late 2022, the group faced a serious allegation involving their drummer, which led to him leaving the band for a time. Since then, the members have signalled intermittent creative work, and by late 2024, they were recording together again. Their August 2025 note suggests a settled band lineup and plans to share new material, though full details have not been released.


The Neighbourhood band paused to focus on health and life changes

Why did The Neighbourhood go on a hiatus? (Image via YouTube)
Why did The Neighbourhood go on a hiatus? (Image via YouTube)

The band announced an open-ended break as tensions and life changes built up. Members had personal issues to manage, including relationships and family matters, and they said stepping away would let them address those concerns. The break meant fewer live shows and more time off social media for some members.


The drummer was removed after an allegation and sought help

Why did The Neighbourhood go on a hiatus? (Image via YouTube)
Why did The Neighbourhood go on a hiatus? (Image via YouTube)

In late 2022, María Zardoya of The Marías accused drummer Brandon Fried of inappropriate behaviour. The Neighbourhood said he would no longer be part of the group at that time.

Fried later admitted the incident and apologised, acknowledging problems linked to substance use. The situation led to a public reckoning and a focus on recovery for him.


Quiet studio work kept the possibility of a return alive

Why did The Neighbourhood go on a hiatus? (Image via YouTube)
Why did The Neighbourhood go on a hiatus? (Image via YouTube)

Even while the band remained mostly out of public view, signs showed they had not stopped creating. Members released solo records and shared occasional studio updates.

Fans tracked small clues on social media and message boards, and reports of studio sessions in late 2024 suggested that creative collaboration had resumed before any public announcement.


The “next chapter” message shows they feel ready to move forward together

Why did Neighbourhood go on a hiatus? (Image via YouTube)
Why did Neighbourhood go on a hiatus? (Image via YouTube)

The brief statement the band shared in late August 2025 named the group as reunited and included a mention of Fried returning to the lineup. The band thanked people who had spoken up and those who supported recovery efforts, and said they were proud of the progress made. That phrasing points to a desire to balance accountability with renewed collaboration.


The Neighbourhood’s break began with a choice to step away from touring and publicity so members could deal with private matters. A serious allegation against the drummer made the situation more complex, leading to his temporary removal and personal focus on recovery.

Over time, solo projects and quiet studio sessions kept the creative spark alive. The recent announcement signals that the band feels ready to present new material and move forward as a group. Fans are now waiting for concrete dates or releases, as the band transitions from a period of pause into renewed activity.

Edited by Ritika Pal