Intoxicated (Hinder song)

The song was written in 2014 during the band's search for a new vocalist following the departure of founding singer Austin John Winkler in November 2013,^[6] "Intoxicated" was composed by drummer Cody Hanson, country artist Ryan Hurd, Joey Hyde, and Marshal Dutton, who later became the band's new lead vocalist in January 2015.^[7]

It was recorded and produced at Back-Longue Productions in Oklahoma City by Hanson and Dutton.^[8] The band stated that they aimed to capture a more aggressive, driving rock sound while retaining their melodic foundations. Dutton, who had been co-writing and producing with Hinder since 2009, recorded the song's demo vocals, which ultimately led to him joining the group full-time. He replaced Nolan Neal, who had briefly been selected as vocalist for the first single, Hit the Ground.^[9][10]

In an August 2015 interview with CBS News, lead vocalist Marshal Dutton revealed that "Intoxicated" was written unusually quickly during the recording sessions, stating, "We came out with a killer rock riff... We didn’t even spend an hour on it." Dutton noted that the band preferred to let the song develop spontaneously rather than over-analyzing the arrangement, resulting in a track that felt raw and instinctive.^[11]

As part of promotion for When the Smoke Clears, Hinder premiered the track during an interview on the nationally syndicated rock radio show Sixx Sense with Nikki Sixx on May 4, 2015, which aired on over 130 active rock stations across the United States.^[12][13]

The single was released digitally on May 5, 2015, one week ahead of the album's release on May 12. It was also distributed to rock radio in mid-May 2015.^[14][15]

During the single's lyric video premiere on Loudwire, drummer Cody Hanson commented:

"We're really excited to partner up with Loudwire to bring you the unveiling of our new single 'Intoxicated'. The song is a heavier side to Hinder, yet still melodic, and we can't wait for fans to hear us perform it live on our upcoming tour."

Loudwire described the track as "a driving cut with gritty guitar work and heavy drumming that push the song forward while Dutton belts lyrics about a poisonous relationship."^[16][17][18]

Critical response to “Intoxicated” was mixed. Sputnik Music described the track as “a watered-down version of the already generic formula the band has relied on for its albums,” criticizing the continued lyrical themes of drinking and toxic relationships.^[19]

By contrast, Eddie Gato of Moshpits and Movies praised the single as “a heavier side to Hinder, yet still melodic,” calling it “a definite heavy hitter” and noting similarities to Alice in Chains and Mötley Crüe.^[20]

Tom Haugen of New Noise Magazine stated that “Intoxicated” resonated with the band's blue-collar audience, noting that "songs with titles like 'Intoxicated' appeal to working-class listeners who connect with the emotional weight of the lyrics and guitar riffs."^[21]

Todd Jolicoeur from 100 Percent Rock gave a positive review, writing: "'Intoxicated' kicks the energy and attitude up a notch while staying true to the Hinder sound. The vocals are darker and heavier than usual, giving the track a kick that ups the rock quotient."^[22]

Some critics were less receptive to Dutton's vocals, noting that his tone differed from the distinctive delivery of former frontman Austin John Winkler.^[23][24]

Personnel credits adapted from AllMusic.^[25]

• Marshal Dutton – lead vocals, producer, songwriter
• Cody Hanson – drums, backing vocals, producer, songwriter
• Joe "Blower" Garvey – lead guitar, backing vocals
• Mark King – rhythm guitar, backing vocals
• Mike Rodden – bass guitar, backing vocals
• Ryan Hurd – songwriter
• Joey Hyde – songwriter