Album of The Week: Chip Chrome & The Mono-Tones

Everything is Chrome

On September 25th, 2020 The Neighborhood released their strongest album yet. In my opinion, it stands in close ranks to their 2015 album “Wiped Out!” Entitled “Chip Chrome & The Mono-Tones” this album comes with a lot of rebranding from the band itself, by identifying "Chip Chrome", also known as Jesse Rutherford, as their front man. The prominence of chrome in the album title and latest aesthetic of the band pokes at the idea of the futuristic society we long to have — constant technological upgrades and dreams of flying cars. The Neighborhood has always provided its listeners with the slow alternative pop sounds of southern California, and does so exceptionally well with this album. Specifically, the songs “Tobacco Sunburst” and “Middle of Somewhere” really give off that SoCal feeling, who knows though, I’ve never actually been there. “Hell or High Water” stuck out to me while listening because it gave off a tropical beach sound, one that you might hear while watching an episode of “SpongeBob.” The variance from song to song proves just how far from mono-tone this release is. Yet at the same time, every song fits perfectly within the concept they were going for. If you take anything away from their new album it should be “Pretty Boy” and “Devil’s Advocate” saved to your playlists. Both songs were released as singles and they are definitely the strongest on the album from my perspective. “Even if the sky’s on fire, I got you here it’s alright.” “Pretty Boy” echos this same notion throughout in a slow beautiful manner — the world may end but at least I have you. If you want an upbeat song then “Lost in Translation” would be a good listen, filled with high energy choruses that make you want to dance and be angry at whoever is leading you on. All in all, The Neighborhood’s newest release definitely exceeded my expectations. If you are looking for something to throw on while driving or relaxing outside, look no further, Chip Chrome has arrived.