Mastering the Mood of "Void"
"Void" by The Neighbourhood is a track that defines the modern alternative/indie-pop vocal style. Found on their self-titled 2018 album, it moves away from high-power belting and focuses heavily on introspection, atmosphere, and timbre. Jesse Rutherford's performance is characterized by a laid-back delivery that sits comfortably in the baritone range but frequently jumps into a light, airy head voice.
To sing this well, you need to resist the urge to over-sing. The emotional weight of the song comes from the "emptiness" in the tone—a controlled breathiness that mimics the feeling of a void.
AI Coach Tip: Watch Your Diction
Rutherford often slurs words slightly for stylistic effect ("indie cursive"). However, our analysis shows that maintaining clear consonants on the downbeats improves your rhythm score without ruining the vibe.
Phase 1: The Verses (Low & Conversational)
The song starts in F# Minor. The verses are sung in a lower register (around C#3 to F#3). This is very comfortable for Baritones but can be tricky for Tenors who lack power in their lower extension.
The Trap: Because it's low, singers often let their pitch sag or go flat. Keep your soft palate raised even on low notes to keep the pitch sharp and resonant.
Phase 2: The Chorus (The Emotional Hook)
The chorus lifts the energy slightly but remains moody. "I wonder how I got by this week" requires a seamless mix. You aren't yelling; you are complaining melodically.
- Breath Control: The phrases are long and legato. Ensure you take a deep diaphragmatic breath before the chorus hits.
- Tone Color: Keep the sound "dark" (think of yawning) rather than "bright" (thinking of smiling) to match the original track's somber aesthetic.
Phase 3: The Bridge & Outro
As the song progresses towards the end, the instrumentation swells, and the vocals become more layered. This is where you might employ falsetto or a lighter head voice for the background ad-libs ("Oohs" and "Ahhs"). Ideally, you want a contrast between the grounded chest voice of the main lyrics and the floating quality of the backing vocals.
If you struggle with the higher notes in the ad-libs, try using a "cry" vocal quality to thin out your chest voice and ease the transition upward.
Frequently Asked Questions
The main vocal melody tops out around A4 in a mixed voice, but there are falsetto harmonies and ad-libs that reach higher into the 5th octave.
It is moderately difficult. While the range isn't extreme, maintaining the specific atmospheric tone and pitch accuracy in the lower verses can be tricky for beginners.
Yes, but the verses might feel a bit low. Focus on vocal fry or a relaxed chest voice for the lows. The chorus sits in a sweet spot for most Tenors.
