Brunswick natives Neighbourhood Youth are today excited to share their new single ‘Hugo’; the first taste of their 2017 repertoire. The single was recorded and mixed by Greg Rietwyk at Aviary Studios, and was mastered by Dave Walker at Stepford Studios.
Having written the lyrics to the track, bassist Sam Nathan explains “Hugo tells the story of an old man reminiscing about the war, and his feelings and regrets from that experience. It also touches on how humans don’t learn from their past mistakes.”
Comprised of John Philip (vocals/guitar), Sam Nathan (bass), Liam Jenkins (guitar), and Jesse Dimond (drums), Neighbourhood Youth have built up an impressive resume over their five years as a band. After forming in early 2012, the indie rockers wasted no time in churning out their debut EP and heading over to the UK to play alongside the likes of Mac DeMarco, Unknown Mortal Orchestra, and King Krule at The Great Escape Festival in 2013. Since then, the band have appeared at a plethora of Australian festivals, including Beyond The Valley, Paradise Festival, St Kilda Festival, and Melbourne Music Week.
Throughout 2014, the band took a break from the live scene to knuckle down and hone a new sound, led with more grunt and passion than before. Almost a year later, a rejuvenated Neighbourhood Youth returned to the Melbourne music scene with pounding rhythms, cascading guitar lines and bellowing, emotion-packed lyrics. Their sophomore EP released in 2016 showcased a completely different side to the band, influenced by a whole new set of experiences and inspirations.
Last year, Neighbourhood Youth sold out The Workers Club for the launch for their sophomore EP, and toured nationally with The Pretty Littles, adding to their already impressive list of support slots including British India, The Belligerents, Moses Gunn Collective, and Tiny Little Houses. This year they’re gearing up for their debut album due early next year, which promises to deliver more of the band’s driving indie rock to listeners.