Since bursting onto the scene in 2018 with their debut single 'I Want You', Irish rock band Inhaler has shown no signs of slowing down, maintaining a relentless touring schedule alongside a steady stream of new music.
Fresh off the release of their third studio album, 'Open Wide', earlier this year, Inhaler return to Australian shores next week for their second tour down under.Their first visit last August – supporting their sophomore album 2023's 'Cuts & Bruises' – saw sold-out shows and an ever-growing fanbase.
This time, they're back with even more to prove. Ahead of their Australian dates, frontman Elijah Hewson and drummer Ryan McMahon talk about the band's journey, their creative evolution, and what fans can expect from their upcoming shows.
For new Australian fans just discovering the energetic sound of this rising Irish rock band, the group has a playful way of introducing themselves – think dating profile, but for music.
"We don't discriminate against any music types. We're very – I think we're very eccentric in our music types, and we've known each other for a long time, and we're here for a good time," Elijah shares, offering a glimpse into the band's eclectic style and laid-back camaraderie.
As the band reflects on their previous Australian tour, it's clear the wild energy of the local crowds left a lasting impression. "I think that exactly – like it was, yeah, just rowdiness," Elijah says, summing up the chaotic charm of the experience.
Looking ahead to their return, the band is not only excited to perform but also to soak in some local culture – marsupials included. "Besides the gigs, we are very excited for the gigs, but we also want to go see some kangaroos, somehow," Elijah says with a laugh.
Ryan chimes in with a more reflective take on touring far from home. "I think, like, you know, sometimes when we're in like [a] territory like that, you know, somewhere that's just so far away from home, just even getting out and just walking the streets and just like, you know, feeling the energy of the new place, like a land that's so far away," he says.
With their infectious energy and open-minded approach to music, it's no wonder the band is building momentum – and anticipation is high for what's sure to be another memorable tour across Australia.
As 'Open Wide' continues to resonate with audiences, the band has found that life on the road is reshaping the way their music lives and breathes onstage. "It's hard to remember what the recordings sound like, because they just become these different things live," Elijah says.
"It's nice to be able to stand behind a lot of, really, a lot of tunes that we put a lot of hard work into and that we're proud of."
That evolution doesn't just apply to their music's sound. When it comes to curating their live set list, the band is embracing the opportunity to dig deep into their catalogue and honour long-time listeners.
"We can afford to stick some deeper cuts into the set here and there, to give a nod to fans who have been there from day one," Ryan says.
While connecting with fans has always been a cornerstone of the band's ethos, the physical toll of life on the road has made it a bit more difficult to engage face-to-face after shows.
"I think recently, we've always used to love meeting everybody after the show, but it's gotten a little more difficult in recent years, because the sets are getting longer. We're a bit more wrecked after," Elijah admits with a grin.
Still, whether through extended set lists or the evolving energy of their live performances, the band is committed to giving fans an experience that feels both personal and ever-changing.
- written by Alisha Sawyer
Inhaler 2025 Tour Dates
Tue 3 Jun - Astor Theatre (Perth)Thu 5 Jun - The Tivoli (Brisbane)
Fri 6 Jun - Enmore Theatre (Sydney)
Mon 9 Jun - Forum Melbourne* sold out
Tue 10 Jun - Forum Melbourne* new show
