Inhaler return with Open Wide; their new album; following the release of 2023’s Cuts and Bruises.
Release Date: 7th February 2025
Label: Polydor Records
Format: CD / Vinyl / Digital
OPEN WIDE
Open Wide is the long-awaited third album from Irish Rock sensations: Inhaler. Their debut album, It Won’t Always Be Like This, debuted at #1 on the Official Albums Chart in the UK and Ireland. Sophomore album, Cuts & Bruises, topped the Irish charts and placed at #2 in the UK’s Official Albums Chart. Since the success of their albums, Elijah, Robert, Josh, and Ryan have spent the past few years on the road on their tours and supporting the likes of Arctic Monkeys, Harry Styles and Kings of Leon.
The Dublin indie-rock band open the album with Eddie in the Darkness. Produced by Kid Harpoon (Harry Styles, Miley Cyrus), the track kicks the album off to an upbeat start while blending in fresh elements in the band’s sound, showcasing an evolution since their last release.
Inhaler have been teasing this song to fans since their American leg of the Cuts & Bruises tour in October 2024 and it sparked excitement online. The tuneful beat opens, seamlessly fusing Robert Keating on bass, along with Josh Jenkinson’s guitar playing and Ryan McMahon’s intricate drum playing to gradually build up to the chorus of the song. On top of that, Elijah’s vocals take centre stage on this track, capturing an emotional and passionate performance throughout.
A DISTINCT EVOLUTION
Open Wide shows a distinct evolution from Inhaler’s previous albums, introducing a more pop-infused direction to their sound. Nevertheless, the album is still undeniably one of Inhaler’s greatest works and is sure to be a fan-favourite for many years to come. It strikes a perfect balance between its lyricism and instrumental richness, blending a variety of genres to create a delightful listening experience.
Your House was released in October 2024, marking the band’s first single in almost two years. Opening with a strong drum beat driving into the intro, the song delves into the complexities of young love, featuring influences from 70s rock. The track effortlessly blends backing vocals from the House Gospel Choir with Elijah Hewson’s unique voice, creating a captivating and dynamic sound.
Saying, “Oh-oh, lovе
There ain’t a sharp enough knife
To cut me out of your life
I’m going to your house tonight”.’
DYNAMIC & UPBEAT
X-Ray brings the band’s early rock roots to the forefront with its raw riff while also experimenting with different genres. The chorus is reminiscent of music from Foals, with its dynamic and upbeat rhythm. The track showcases prominent instrumentals, specifically from Robert Keating on the bass, adding depth and energy to the overall sound.
Feels like heaven
Feels like heaven
Even if there’s not one
I will chain myself to your soul, oh.
Inhaler refuses to end on a solemn note and keeps the energy alive in the final song Little Things. The intro embraces a darker side to the band, then adds Eli’s voice in with a lower register, evocative of Bono’s voice. It serves as a suitable conclusion to Open Wide, bringing everything full circle with an outro that perfectly caps off the entire experience.
Little things, those little things
Nothing’s gonna change the way I feel about.
Inhaler will embark on their UK tour this month to promote the album. They will head to festivals this summer including NBHD Weekender and TRNSMT. They will also play their own hometown headline show at St. Anne’s Park in Dublin. You can view their tour dates here.
Listen to Your House taken from Open Wide, below.
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