Song Stories: Inhaler: It Won't Always Be Like This

Inhaler released their debut album in July 2021, it's title track not only acted as the records debut single but was also a defining statement for the band. 'It Won't Always Be Like This' had originally been written about a break up, but when the band re-recorded the song for their debut album of the same name. It was a show of defiance, the introduction to a world that was coming out of a lockdown. 
The song also set the tone for the album that followed, full of defiance, optimism and plenty of guitars. With this record the band proved themselves as one of the most important new guitar bands in Britain.

From the moment the song kicks in, its driving bassline, shimmering guitars, and soaring vocals immediately capture attention. Inhaler’s sound draws inspiration from indie and post-punk revival acts such as The Killers, U2, and The Strokes, yet they bring a fresh and modern approach that feels uniquely their own. Frontman Elijah Hewson, son of U2’s Bono, delivers the lyrics with a raw passion that adds depth to the track’s message. 

The song’s lyrics carry a sense of longing and optimism, reflecting themes of change, growth, and perseverance. Lines like "It won’t always be like this" serve as both a personal reassurance and a universal mantra, particularly resonant given the context of its release during the COVID-19 pandemic. It became an anthem for those yearning for better days, offering a glimmer of hope amidst uncertainty.

Additionally, the lyrics explore themes of youthful restlessness and the desire for escape, themes that resonate with a generation coming of age in an uncertain world. The repeated chorus acts as a mantra of sorts, reinforcing the message that tough times are temporary and that perseverance pays off. 

The song does not reinvent the wheel, but it doesn't need to. It was perfect for the band, and was also perfect for the time. Inhaler appealed to a generation of young people, who had tried to navigate their way through social distancing, lockdowns, tier systems, whilst also managing relationships, friendships, work, education, trying to have a social life etc. This song reminded them that better days would still come back. 

The song has become a mainstay in the bands live show, featuring as the centerpiece of the bands setlist. For many Inhaler fans it was their first introduction to the band, the song was also picked up by numerous musicians who would take the Dublin band on tour. Noel Gallagher was a fan and picked the band to support him in Manchester, Blossoms took them on tour, and in later years they have supported Arctic Monkeys. 

It was the perfect debut single, it encapsulates everything that makes Inhaler great. Brilliant instrumentation, youthful sprit, and huge chrouses. The band have adapted this sound on the two subsequent albums 'Cuts & Bruises' and 'Open Wide' but it was 'It Won't Always Be Like This' that caused people to take notice of them. 

Thank you for reading
Jack