“Open Wide”: Inhaler’s Evolving Sound Blossoms Across Genres
Photo by Lewis Evans
Inhaler is back! And the vibes are good. The Dublin indie-rock band released their third studio album Open Wide, a new chapter of evolution and experimentation as they continue to mature and refine their sound.
Since the release of their debut album It Won't Always Be Like This in 2021, the band has toured the world numerous times, opening for artists such as Arctic Monkeys, Pearl Jam, Sam Fender, and Harry Styles. They have become known for their electric live performances and ability to get a crowd dancing. Their sophomore album Cuts and Bruises stayed true to their indie-rock anthem roots while showcasing a new and more vulnerable side to the band through tracks such as “Valentine” and “If You’re Gonna Break My Heart”. Following the building success of their first two albums, audiences are eager to see what direction they are headed.
Open Wide welcomes a different sound, feeling both nostalgic and refreshing. Produced by Grammy Award winning artist Kid Harpoon, this album builds upon Inhaler’s core indie-rock sound by playing around with vibrant and unique riffs, synths, and tempos. The band expressed how proud they were of this new sound stating, “We’ve finally gotten to a point on this album where we actually sound like the band that we want to sound like”. Their vulnerability and maturity translate through the work as they explore themes of love, parenthood , nostalgia, and youthful exploration. The record was released on February 7, 2025 and, after taking the weekend to really sit with the album, here’s everything you need to know:
Their lead single “Your House” begins with a strong rhythm and layered guitar which builds as it progresses. The dark opening notes are contrasted by a light and airy gospel choir throughout the chorus. The track is a perfect introduction to this new era with clear new wave influences, reminiscent of the Talking Heads. The release of this single left audiences eagerly waiting to see how this single would fit into the entire body of work.
The album opens with one of my personal favorites, “Eddie in the Darkness”, a moody and fun anthem that is a perfect bridge from their past work to a new era of experimentation and maturity. As the song progresses, we hear a dynamic chorus that explores themes of self-reflection and desire. This longing is manifested in their second verse “Ooh, I can be a wreck/ Sticking out the sand/ Living from the light/ In the palm of your hand”. The song has aspects of Inhaler’s usual anthemic nature while setting the scene for this new sound explored on the rest of the album.
Photo by Lewis Evans
What sets Open Wide apart from Inhaler’s other work is the way it leans into a more pop-rock, 80s sound. They described this move into pop music as “natural”, which clearly translates as you listen. The use of synths and shimmery guitars bring a playfulness to the record. “Billy (Yeah, Yeah, Yeah)” stands out as a fun pop-rock earworm with its catchy chorus and repetitive “yeah yeah yeah”. The funky bassline and catchy guitar riffs featured in “A Question of You” showcase these pop influences while still remaining true to Inhaler’s core rock values. Their ability to blend these genres in a way that is unique to them creates a feel-good vibe that makes listeners want to get up and dance.
Inhaler’s genre exploration does not stop with pop; the band dives into styles of psychedelic rock, post-punk revival, and alternative power ballads. “Again”, the sixth track on the album features a bright guitar riff and soft vocals. The calm and gentle melody acts as a pause from the record's upbeat nature and stands as a testament to the band’s versatility. The album also has a bit of country flare, yet another new exploration for Inhaler. The backing guitar in track nine, “Still Young” conveys a nostalgic rhythm reminiscent of a classic American bar scene. The eleventh track titled, “X-ray” stands out as a classic rock-and-roll number with a punchy guitar riff as it’s backbone. While different from their older tunes, this track fits right in with classics like “Cheer Up Baby” and “It Won't Always Be Like This,” sure to get their audiences energized.
Since the release of their debut album, Inhaler has continued to raise the bar and think outside the box. Their ability to experiment and express themselves in new ways is what keeps audiences coming back. Their core rock influences remain true throughout their discography but their willingness to take risks and blend genres is truly something special. Open Wide proves that Inhaler is not afraid to take risks and solidifies them as an indie rock powerhouse. Their ability to blend genres and convey strong messages is what draws audiences to them and I am extremely impressed with their ability to make these leaps while still remaining true to their core rock sound. This record is a perfect new addition to their catalog and I am so excited to see what’s in store for Inhaler!
