Dublin’s Finest: Inhaler Push Boundaries with ‘Open Wide’

Irish alt-rock band Inhaler are expanding their musical territory with their latest offering, ‘Open Wide’.

The Dublin-based four-piece composed of frontman and guitarist Elijah Hewson, bassist Robert Keating, guitarist Josh Jenkinson and drummer Ryan McMahon, have already established a signature sound, rooted in anthemic guitar and hard-hitting alt-rock. ‘Open Wide’ sees the band testing the waters and gently pushing the boundaries on the style that has already cemented their success.

The album marks Inhaler’s third studio release, following the success of 2023‘s ‘Cuts and Bruises’, which rose to number one in the Irish and number two in the UK album charts. Despite being only three albums in, Inhaler have already gained an incredibly loyal fanbase, having spent their early years supporting a handful of artists on tour, including the likes of Arctic Monkeys, Sam Fender, and Harry Styles.

‘Open Wide’ kicks off with ‘Eddie in the Darkness’, an instant anthem driven by high-energy, pulsing bass and heavy guitar riffs in the chorus. It sets the tone for the rest of the album, making for a smart and impactful opener. This flows into ‘Billy (Yeah, Yeah, Yeah)’, a standout track released as a surprise single just days before the album’s debut. The cathartic bass, blended with electro-pop-leaning guitar will have you dancing and smiling to yourself immediately, ready to be chanting “Billy, Billy, Billy” to your heart’s content. Hewson beautifully delivers the lyrics which explore the feeling of being “all in” for someone, while realising just how precariously close you are to vulnerability.

Lead single, ‘Your House’, launched this new era with thumping and reverb filled bass that immediately commands attention. The contrast between the heavy rock elements and the delicate addition of a gospel choir in the chorus creating something ethereal yet powerful. While it carries a slightly more chilled-out vibe than the proceeding tracks, it maintains the album’s high energy and sharp wordplay. “Sold love for what it’s worth on the street”, and “There ain’t a sharp enough knife to cut me out of your life” paint a picture of obsessive love - or as Hewson told NME “chasing some sort of destructive force in your own life, essentially just wanting something that’s not good for you”.

‘A Question Of You’ features a particularly spicy guitar riff between the chorus and second verse, stunningly delivered by Jenkinson. A track that demands to be played live and enjoyed fully, it leans more pop than the rest of the album, but with some edgier elements like the inclusion of the gospel choir, to keep it within Inhaler’s style. ‘Even Though’ has a heavenly bridge, showcasing Hewson’s impressive vocal range and the effortless delivery of runs that sound as natural as breathing. It transitions seamlessly into ‘Again’, a tender intermission on the album that delivers a message of hope and resilience. Life is heavy and “tears at your sleeves sometimes”, but ultimately you dust yourself off and try again.

The album’s title track, ‘Open Wide’, starts with a juicy yet simple bassline, delicate percussion and a sprinkle of retro synth. One of the key singles that hinted at the band’s sonic evolution, it marks a confident step into new musical territory. Tracks like ‘All I Got Is You’, ‘Still Young’ and ‘The Charms’ push the album through the second half, culminating in ‘X-ray’ - a clear standout. Musically, the soundscape that is furthest away from the Inhaler you know and love already. Guitar that’s so rooted in classic 70’s rock that the “feels like heaven” line feels incredibly nostalgic.

'Concrete' has echoes of their previous work, with guitar riffs reminiscent of 2023’s 'Love Will Get You There'. Finally, 'Little Things' closes the album on a slightly different note, ultimately leaving you eager to circle back for a second listen.

With its anthemic rock elements, bold new textures, and infectious energy, ‘Open Wide’ remains unmistakably Inhaler while introducing fresh sonic layers—a sound the band credits to Kid Harpoon, who played a key role in production. This album doesn’t just ask to be heard live—it demands it.

Grace Taylor

@gracelizabetht

Image: Chuff Media

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