COVER
Good Neighbours
Redefining Optimism
By Sophie Cino
Publishing date: Jan 09, 2025
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Good Neighbours, the indie-pop duo from London, has been making waves with their blend of upbeat melodies and reflective lyrics. What began as two friends writing songs in adjacent studios has evolved into one of the most talked-about acts in the UK music scene. With sold-out shows, a growing international fanbase, and recognition as Brit nominees, their rise feels both surreal and well-deserved. When I sat down to chat with Oli and Scott in Toronto this winter, it’s clear their journey is just beginning—and they’re taking it all in stride.
The duo, whose name reflects the quirky start of their collaboration, found each other through mutual friends in London’s tight-knit music community. “London’s music scene is small—everyone knows everyone,” Oli explains. “Our friends kept saying we should write together, so we finally did. We could hear each other’s songs through the walls, and eventually, we decided to collaborate properly. That’s how Good Neighbours was born.”
Their music is often described as “optimistic indie pop,” a description they’ve embraced wholeheartedly. “It’s not too down in the dumps,” they joke. But beneath their bright sound lies a deeper narrative of navigating life’s challenges. Scott explains that “The lyrics often touch on the struggles of paying rent or living off cheap meal deals, but we pair that with music that feels hopeful. It’s about finding joy in the chaos.”
Good Neighbours, the indie-pop duo from London, has been making waves with their blend of upbeat melodies and reflective lyrics. What began as two friends writing songs in adjacent studios has evolved into one of the most talked-about acts in the UK music scene. With sold-out shows, a growing international fanbase, and recognition as Brit nominees, their rise feels both surreal and well-deserved. When I sat down to chat with Oli and Scott in Toronto this winter, it’s clear their journey is just beginning—and they’re taking it all in stride.
The duo, whose name reflects the quirky start of their collaboration, found each other through mutual friends in London’s tight-knit music community. “London’s music scene is small—everyone knows everyone,” Oli explains. “Our friends kept saying we should write together, so we finally did. We could hear each other’s songs through the walls, and eventually, we decided to collaborate properly. That’s how Good Neighbours was born.”
Their music is often described as “optimistic indie pop,” a description they’ve embraced wholeheartedly. “It’s not too down in the dumps,” they joke. But beneath their bright sound lies a deeper narrative of navigating life’s challenges. Scott explains that “The lyrics often touch on the struggles of paying rent or living off cheap meal deals, but we pair that with music that feels hopeful. It’s about finding joy in the chaos.”
Their breakout year has been a whirlwind of milestones, including supporting major acts like Benson Boone in Paris, where they performed in front of 10,000 fans. “Everyone had their lighters out—it was unreal,” Oli recalled. They’ve also made their U.S. television debut on Jimmy Kimmel Live!—an experience they describe as “discombobulating but iconic.”
From the start, Good Neighbours’ creative process has been deeply influenced by their love of film. “We’d have A24 movies playing on mute while writing,” Oli reveals. “It helped us give context to the randomness of creating something from nothing. Soundtracking a film is one of our biggest dreams.”
This cinematic approach has shaped their music, which feels both intimate and expansive. Their songs are layered with instrumentation and storytelling, striking a balance between vulnerability and exuberance.
When asked what sets them apart, the duo laughs. “We’re the world’s tallest band!” With both members standing over six feet four, they’re not exaggerating. “It’s not the most profound thing, but hey, it’s unique!”
Beyond their playful banter, their influences run deep. Early on, they found inspiration in their favorite films and the freedom of creating without expectations. “This project started as something just for us,” they say. “That authenticity is what resonates with people now.”
As they prepare to join Bastille on tour, the duo is excited to embrace life on the road. “We’ve never had a tour bus before,” Scott shared. “Driving through America, stopping at random service stations—it’s going to be an adventure. Plus, seeing Bastille live every night is a dream come true.”
They’re also hard at work on new music, promising to bring their evolving sound to even bigger audiences. “We want to take our music around the world and connect with as many people as possible,” they say.
Reflecting on their journey, they offer simple but powerful advice: “Follow your gut and make music for yourself, not for others. Don’t wait for the right moment because it doesn’t exist. Some of our best decisions were made on impulse.”
For Good Neighbors, the road ahead is full of promise. As they continue to write songs that capture the complexities of life while radiating optimism, one thing is clear: they’re here to stay, and they’re ready to make their mark. New music is definitely on the horizon, you won’t want to miss it.
