Since the release of their debut single ‘Your House,’ Inhaler has introduced us to this new world of groove and spirit. ‘Your House’ comes as a complete shock to the likes of ‘Dublin in Ecstasy,’ experimenting with gospel vocals, accompanied by a strong melodic piano. This essence of obsession captured in Elijah’s lyrics is relatable to all, and paired with strong vocals and upbeat rhythm, it early captures the essence of Open Wide.
The album opens with ‘Eddie in the Darkness,’ with an edgy yet uplifting beginning. It shifts to ‘Billy (Yeah Yeah Yeah)’, a bouncy tune catering to many elements of pop. ‘A Question of You’ follows, with the same energy. The album progresses into different sounds, with ‘Even Though’ providing more of a sharp tone and distinct baseline, ‘The Charms’ providing a more country acoustic sound, and ‘Little Things’ with the ominous, sharp guitar. On the surface it could be perceived as a lot of these tracks from Open Wide having little distinction, but on a focused listen there is so much substance to every song.
One to talk about from Open Wide is definitely ‘All I Got Is You’. With production help from the infamous Kid Harpoon, this track gives a nostalgic Harry’s House feeling, aligning with their recent support for his show at Slane Castle. Many Inhaler fans have criticised their adoption of Harry Styles' funky pop sounds, not agreeing with the straying from their traditional indie-rock sound.
Inhaler’s feel-good album Open Wide has been released to circulate with enough time for festival season, with them playing the likes of Neighbourhood Weekender and TRNSMT, these vibrant tunes will definitely receive some reception over the summer.