Album Review: Inhaler - 'It Won’t Always Be Like This'

Debut album, yes. Unseasoned, absolutely not. Inhaler’s It Won’t Always Be Like This has a distinctive style that sets the Dublin natives apart from other bands. Despite its members’ young age, these artists have the potential other more experienced bands could only ever aspire to have. That, and their willingness to put themselves out there with the whole shebang suggests they are off to a good start.

However, stating the obvious (and somewhat harsh) truths, it is clear Bono’s son’s band has been heavily influenced by U2’s classic sounds. It could be taken as a compliment, considering the magnitude of the legendary rockers, but it is probably something frontman Elijah Hewson isn’t quite so keen on hearing time and time again. The apple truly never falls far from the tree, but it is up to Inhaler to prove they don’t veer too close to becoming a U2 copycat.

The undeniable highlight, A Night on the Floor, sits right in the middle of the track list and is impossible to ignore thanks to its ability to stand out from other more homogenous songs. Quoting BBC Radio 1’s Jack Saunders: “This song is going to make babies.” Some sensual vocals paired with psychedelic riffs, switch the mood of the album, if only ephemerally.

One of their most popular songs to date, Cheer Up Baby, boasts more than 2 million streams on Spotify but fails to impress the way the rest of the songs do. It’s not bottom of the barrel, just slightly monotonous and underwhelming despite featuring a super catchy chorus.

Inhaler has the potential to become huge if they continue to connect great quality music with a steady public presence. And if stay well away from Bono.

Words by Melanie Kaidan

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