The Neighbourhood

Lyrics

[Intro]
If things were different, we were young
Skinny dipping, having fun, I remember
Back in 1991, when the story first begun, I remember (I remember)

[Verse 1]
All of these shelves, holding the things I've done
I knew myself before I knew anyone (I did, I did)
And 'cause we all chew gum, we all have fun with water guns
La-da-da-da-da-da, da-da-dum-dum-dum
Then we all grew up, shit got tough, shit just wasn't simple enough, no

[Chorus]
And whenever the sun came out, we played
(We didn't want to get older, we didn't want to get older)
We would run on the block all night and day
(We didn't want to get older)

[Verse 2]
What a mistake saying the way I felt
I'd say my main influence is myself
And 'cause I started young, I learned a ton, I didn't run
La-da-da-da-da-da-da
I was scared as fuck and out of touch, and I was still testing my luck, oh

[Chorus]
And whenever the sun came out, we played
(We didn't want to get older, we didn't want to get older)
We would run on the block all night and day
(We didn't want to get older, we didn't want to get older)
And whenever the sun came out, we played
(We didn't want to get older, we didn't want to get older)
I left myself in the alleyway
[Outro]
If things were different, we were young
Skinny dipping, having fun, I remember
(I left myself in the alleyway)
All I wanted would become everything I ever loved, I remember
(I left myself in the alleyway)

Hey there music lovers! Today, I want to talk about a fantastic song called "Alleyways" by the talented band, The Neighbourhood. This track holds a special place on their debut album "I Love You." and has a really interesting backstory behind its creation. So sit back, relax, and let's dive into the world of "Alleyways."

About Alleyways

"Alleyways" holds a distinct position as the 6th track on The Neighbourhood's debut album, "I Love You." Released in 2013, this song showcases the band's signature style, combining dreamy melodies with introspective lyrics. Lead singer Jesse Rutherford has openly discussed the inspiration behind the song, sharing that it reflects his relationship with a childhood friend who now serves as the band's manager. It's refreshing to see The Neighbourhood's commitment to transparency, as they take the opportunity to reveal the true meaning behind the track.

Throughout "Alleyways," The Neighbourhood's unique blend of alternative rock, indie pop, and R&B influences truly shines. The song opens with a captivating guitar riff that instantly grabs your attention. The ethereal atmosphere created by the band's haunting musicality draws you in even further, making it impossible to resist being immersed in the sonic journey of "Alleyways."

Jesse Rutherford's vocals are both captivating and raw, perfectly conveying the emotions tied to the lyrics. As the song progresses, Rutherford's voice seamlessly intertwines with the haunting instrumentals, creating a mesmerizing experience that truly engages the listener. It's clear that The Neighbourhood put in a tremendous amount of thought and effort into every aspect of this track.

Thematically, "Alleyways" delves into the complexities of friendship, nostalgia, and personal growth. Jesse Rutherford's personal connection to the lyrics adds an extra layer of authenticity to the song. It invites the listener to reflect on their own relationships and the changes that can occur as people grow older. The Neighbourhood's ability to capture these emotions leaves a lasting impact on the audience.

Lyrically, "Alleyways" is a poetic masterpiece. Lines such as "You've changed, I’ve changed, but you're still the same" and "We've got our parents' hearts, but we've got our parents' brains" reveal a profound sense of introspection. The Neighbourhood's ability to explore such deep themes while maintaining a catchy and accessible sound is truly remarkable.

When listening to "Alleyways," it becomes clear that The Neighbourhood possesses a unique musical vision. They effortlessly blend genres, creating a sonic palette that defies traditional categorization. This artistic approach allows them to stand out from the crowd and carve their own path within the music industry.

With its captivating melodies, introspective lyrics, and raw emotional power, "Alleyways" is a song that will undoubtedly resonate with listeners on a deep level. It serves as a testament to the immense talent and creative vision of The Neighbourhood, solidifying their status as a band to watch.

In a world often dominated by surface-level pop music, The Neighbourhood remains unafraid to delve into more complex themes and create music that challenges conventional norms. "Alleyways" is a shining example of their commitment to authenticity and their ability to create music that sparks genuine emotion within the listener.

So the next time you find yourself craving a musical journey that transcends genres and delves into the depths of human emotion, give "Alleyways" by The Neighbourhood a listen. Trust me, you won't be disappointed!

• Release Date: April 22, 2013
• Artist: The Neighbourhood