6/10

Over the last decade or so, the indie-rock scene has found itself in a bit of a nostalgia trap. While the genre dominated the charts and radio stations in the noughties, many fans have been less than keen to invite newcomers to the fold, opting to keep those stalwart names in the limelight rather than focusing on the next generation breaking through. But while many new names have fallen asunder from this, Irish outfit Inhaler have managed to keep a constant buzz about them these last few years and now look to cement that legacy with their long-awaited debut album 'It Won't Always Be Like This', a record that brings together the best of their work so far.

It seems incredible to think that these guys are only on their first full-length, given that they have been knocking out high-profile offerings as far back as 2018. But despite the slow approach to an LP, they have been frantically knocking out blistering singles these last few years, most of which make their way onto this new collection. From the start, 'It Won't Always Be Like This' makes for a sort of recap of their work to date. While a handful of their charting offerings didn't make the cut, their first full-length is a strong and solid release that manages to create some sort of narrative around their material so far.

While it may not have the same instantly enticing excitement that they have managed to produce in the past, 'It Won't Always Be Like This' still makes for a confident introduction to their sound. They have already achieved a strong cult following over the last few years, and it feels like their best is still yet to come.