Brandon Alexander Fried, drummer of the band  The Neighbourhood was fired on November, 27 after being called out for groping singer Maria Zardoya. The Neighbourhood is known for its multiple hit songs, including “Sweater Weather” which hit platinum in the alternative category, putting the California-born band on the map and receiving national recognition. Their cross-pollinated blend of heavy synths, drums, and bass guitar creates an atmospheric experience in music for millions.

The band is made up of vocalist Jesse Rutherford, guitarists Jeremy Freedman and Zach Abels, bassist Mikey Margott, and drummer Brandon Alexander Fried all combine their individual strengths into something beautiful. 

On November 26, the lead singer from The Marias, Maria Zardoya came forward saying she was groped by their drummer, Brandon Fried, at a party. Zardoya tagged Fried and the band on Instagram, writing, “Find a new drummer, this guy is a creep,” then going on to say, “it was one of the most uncomfortable things I’ve ever experienced. I felt the invasion of my space, privacy, and body.”

This accusation was later confirmed a few minutes later as Fried admitted, and somewhat apologized to Zardoya and the band for his actions, writing on Instagram, “My actions were inexcusable but this is not who I am, but the reflection of a person I am under the influence.”

The band responded to Zardoya a short time later on Twitter,  “We are grateful to María for coming forward. We have zero tolerance for any kind of inappropriate behavior towards women,” they tweeted. “As a result of Brandon’s actions, he will no longer be a member of The Neighbourhood.

Since then, the band has been completely silent and Brandon’s name has been erased from their wiki and has been put in the past member’s category. Brandon Fried has also been removed from their Instagram.