INDIE/POP-ROCK

Open Wide
By Inhaler

Written in Dublin in between long stretches of touring, Open Wide is a bold, 13-track stepping stone out of Irish band Inhaler’s comfort zone. This unique album, recorded with producer Kid, draws inspiration from early ‘70s rock and 2000s’ alternative elements.

The album opens with guitar heavy anthem, Eddie In The Darkness, which was played prior to its official 2025 release on the band’s North American tour in 2024. The following track, Billy (Yeah Yeah Yeah), was released two days before the album. The build-up to the chorus, coupled with the steady thrum of the beat, makes it one of the catchiest songs on the album.

Lead single Your House, second single Open Wide and fan favourite A Question of You all include the House Gospel Choir, bringing a new sonic depth to the album, truly emphasising the ‘70s rock elements in each track.

The tone of the album changes in The Charms and all the way through the final four tracks to Little Things, feeling heavier as the thematic yearning turns more desperate than in previous ones. The last track ends much like the first begins: with a guitar-heavy instrumental that stays true to the core essence of Open Wide.

POP

So Close To What
By Tate McRae

So Close To What is Canadian singer Tate McRae’s third studio album, which the singer first teased in the lead single It’s ok I’m ok music video. The album includes three pre-released tracks: 2 hands, It’s ok I’m ok and Sports car. Each track achieved major success, making use of sassy lyrics, breathy backing vocals and suspenseful build-ups to catchy choruses.

The album opens with Miss possessive, a jealous girlfriend anthem over a mischievous and fast paced beat. The third track, bloodonmyhands, features Flo Milli, adding a perfectly timed rap break that elevates the feel of the track.

Dear god was teased briefly on Tate’s TikTok and the repetitive earworm did not disappoint, maintaining the cheeky nature of the album. Fan favourite I know love features The Kid Laroi and adopts a calmer tone that ties in the last three tracks of the album. Nostalgia, which was inspired by a conversation with the singer’s father, closes the album on a sombre note, as Tate reflects on how overthinking can lead to lost experiences.

So Close To What juggles varying themes of emotional intensity, from love to jealousy and even nostalgia, making for an exciting listen after the highly anticipated release.