Inhaler, We Have to Move On | Track Review 🎵

Dublin, Ireland alternative collective Inhaler delivers a fast-paced, energetic, and entertaining single with “We Have to Move On.”

Many contemporary musicians – bands and solo artists alike – love to incorporate elements of the past into their music.  Rising UK alternative collective Inhaler (Dublin, Ireland), are a prime example of being influenced by and incorporating the past, particularly the 70s and 80s. The band is comprised of four friends (Elijah Hewson, Robert Keating, Ryan McMahon, and Josh Jenkinson) who formed the band while in school. The song at hand, “We Have to Move On,” marks their first single of 2020, is quite enjoyable and entertaining. The band serves as songwriters collectively, while Antony Genn produces.  “We Have to Move On” is a pretty sweet offering from the Dubliners.

Musically, “We Have to Move On” successfully blends enthusiastic guitars, robust bass, bright synths, and a driving groove.  Safe to say, the ear candy is legit.  Beyond the excellence showcased instrumentally, the vocals by Elijah Hewson are also ‘on point.’  Hewson sounds incredibly assertive and commanding, providing listeners with an energetic, nuanced performance. Speaking of energy, overall, “We Have to Move On” is energetic from the jump. That said, the chorus is the most intense, engaged, and memorable section of the record.

“Like it’s your last night
Move on
In the last night
Oh, we stroll off
If you go outside
Move on
In the last light
Move on
Come on, uh.”

Even beyond the chorus, the lyrics are quite interesting overall. “When I’m on my knees / And feel a little spontaneous,” Hewson sings on the first verse, continuing, “Honey, I’ve lost the ring / But I want you to know it’s on purpose.” On the bridge, he seems to support ‘moving on,’ singing, “Oh, you have to move on now / Leave it all behind, you gotta stand down.” Worth noting, the bridge is pretty fun section in its right, with contrasting music further sweetening things.

Final Thoughts

If you haven’t taken the time to check out Inhaler, well, you should get on that. The Dublin collective have plenty to offer.  Even with their love of the classics, their music is pretty fresh.  Elijah Hewson is a compelling frontman, who definitely excels vocally on “We Have to Move On.” I wouldn’t go so far as to call this life changing, but, “We Have to Move On” is a nice record from a pretty nice band.

Inhaler • “We Have to Move On” • Universal Music • Release: 1.24.20

Photo Credit: Universal Music