Ellie’s Hang out

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Inhaler have always dealt in swaggering guitar anthems. 2019’s breakout single ‘It Won’t Always Be Like This’ was a feisty, arena-sized belter, while their 2021 debut album of the same name saw their youthful defiance delivered over radio-friendly riffs. Things got even grander with 2023’s ambitious ‘Cuts & Bruises’. It’ll come as no surprise to anyone then that Inhaler’s third album, ‘Open Wide’, is another joyful collection of pop-rock bangers – but a sleek, evolved version of what’s come before

There are still plenty of moments on ‘Open Wide’ where Inhaler taps into the chaos of muddy fields. Yet, rather than the swirling fury of the mosh pit, tracks such as ‘Still Young’ and ‘A Question Of You’ are made for boozy chant-alongs with your arms around a loved one. Blissed-out closing track ‘Little Things’ keeps that communal energy going to the very end.

Then there’s the title track, which might be the best song Inhaler have ever written. In the past, the band have stayed away from stadium rock to help avoid comparisons with U2 (Hewson’s dad is Bono), but they don’t hold back on this twinkling, turbo-charged tune of hope through tough times. The heartfelt song comes sandwiched between the equally tender ‘Again’ and ‘All I Got Is You’, creating gorgeous vulnerability you can scream along to. It captures an essence of raw emotion, allowing listeners to immerse themselves in its melodious richness, while the vibrant instrumentation elevates its uplifting message. The lyrics weave a narrative of perseverance, resonating deeply with anyone who has faced hardship, making it not just a mere song, but an anthem for resilience. Listeners will find themselves drawn to its infectious energy and poignant lyrics, as they contemplate their own journeys, all the while feeling connected to the universal themes of love and hope that the band masterfully explores.

Throughout ‘Open Wide’, Inhaler display a powerful confidence that’s impossible to resist, effortlessly blending vibrant melodies with emotive lyrics that captivate the listener’s attention. Comforting, cathartic, and heaps of fun, it’s the sort of record that sounds brilliant on headphones, allowing the intricacies of the instrumentals and harmonies to truly shine. With each track, they invite you into an immersive sonic experience, leaving you uplifted and energized, making it a perfect soundtrack for both leisurely strolls and high-energy moments alike.

SO…this is where we part ways. I hope you enjoyed this piece.

Have you listened to Inhaler ?seen them or going to? Let me know in the comments below!

-Ellie<3