Inhaler cover

Inhaler

Foals · 2012

4 min · 1 track · alternative rock

A whirlwind of angular guitars and propulsive rhythms, blending art rock and dance-punk into a euphoric sonic experience.

Top tracks — play these first

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    Inhaler — The title track establishes the album's intense energy with swirling guitars and driving beats, encapsulating Foals' signature blend of math rock intricacies and danceable rhythms.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

58 /100
Treeline
Higher than 49% of albums we've rated

The single showcases energetic instrumentation and strong hooks, marking a notable evolution in the band's sound.

What we noticed

  • The track features a driving beat that maintains a high energy level throughout its duration.
  • Angular guitar riffs are layered over a steady bass line, creating a dynamic and textured sound.
  • The song's structure includes multiple build-ups and climaxes, with an explosive chorus that contrasts with quieter verses.
Composition 25% of the score
7/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
8/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
6/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
7/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
5/10

running order, pacing, length

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Where this album fits

In the catalog
Breakthrough — Solidified Foals' presence in the alternative rock scene with significant chart success.
Themes
dance-punk energy· angular guitar landscapes
Career context
Inhaler marks Foals' return following their acclaimed second album Total Life Forever. Released in 2012, this single showcased the band's evolution towards a more accessible sound while retaining their complex musicality, setting the stage for their subsequent commercial success.

Moments worth listening for

Where the writing does something specific.

  • Inhaler

    The chorus captures a sense of urgency as it repeatedly implores listeners to breathe deeply amidst chaotic imagery.

    This repetition creates a hypnotic effect that mirrors the struggle between exhilaration and anxiety, enhancing the thematic depth of the song.

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 Inhaler 4:52

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata