Hollywood group The Bites, consisting of vocalist Jordan Tyler, guitarist Jono Richer, bassist Zack Currier, and drummer Mark Hylander, is back. Their fourth studio album is a self-titled album that emphasizes their signature sound with everything that makes 80s rock music so iconic. If you love that classic 80s rock sound with tongue-in-cheek lyrics, then this album is for you.
We start off the album with “Whenever You’re Ready.” Sonically, I can imagine a whole 80's-themed movie of an angsty protagonist getting ready for school, rushing to get out of the house, and eventually skateboarding their way to class. The guitar solo gives the song such a classic rock touch that really sets the tone for who this band is and what this album contains.
Next, we have “Hold On,” which provides a very important message of empowerment and perseverance. With the lyric "walking the line of making or breaking,” it speaks to the struggles and strength that are found not only in music but in life as well. If you’re in any kind of rut creatively, emotionally, or spiritually, this is a song you’re going to want to check out.
Speaking of lyrics, "Lips" has some silly, cutesy, fun lyrics. Much different from the previous song. However, who doesn’t love to spell out “K-I-S-S-I-N-G” to a track with a steady beat and similar vibe to Def Leppard? I’ve never been to a The Bites show, but I can see how this song live could be really interactive and fun.
Moving into a heavier sound, “Dancing with the Devil” provides a heavier guitar riff that starts out slow with a gradual build. “Go big or go home, somebody save my soul,” the entire song stays true to the spiritual theme of what it feels like to take a ride on the wild side (peep the clever Mötley Crüe reference).
The next track, “Pretty Pistol,” is calling out anyone who loves the “rockstar girlfriend aesthetic.” The song is confident: “got a drop dead angel, and she knows it." It's fun and sexy, and I could totally see it being a part of the Coyote Ugly soundtrack. I would love to meet whoever inspired this song because I know they’re a badass.
Switching gears here just a little bit lyrically with “Aftertaste.” We come to this point of the album, and we get an "it's not you, it’s me" breakup song. Just an idea: if you want to break up with someone, try sending this song! (Please don’t do that; this is a joke. I’m not responsible for whatever happens).
“Shake Your Thing” gives us this anthemic chanting in the beginning of the song and in the chorus. The song itself radiates a swagger that fits perfectly into the 80s rock star style. The ad “Your boots were made for more than walking" also adds to the confidence this band projects, which proves these guys are rock stars.
The album continues with “Carry You Home.” Something worth noting about this song and the rest of the songs on this album: this band loves love. They’re literally saying, "let's get into some trouble, and I will make sure you get home safely,” with the lines, “if you’re trying to get in trouble. You and I better start drinking doubles… Don’t worry, mama, I can carry you home.”
Similar energy is presented in “Playing the Fool,” the lyric, “you’ve got me playing the fool. Trying to get some loving from you.” These guys are not afraid to show off a softer side of themselves that are willing to do whatever it takes for love and romance.
A shift occurs on the song “Waiting.” This entire album has had a pretty consistent energy and tempo to it. The acoustic start to the song shows off some versatility of the band’s sound. Don’t worry, though; if you didn’t want to slow things down, just wait till the chorus strikes. It’ll speed up for anyone who's not a fan of sappy love songs.
The album concludes with “Tattoo?” An intimate and sexy vibe to leave us with. “I want you to show me your tattoo.” Who knew tattoos could get some people going! This song was a great choice for this band to close out on. I feel like everyone in the band really had a chance to have their moment to shine along with an epic ending.
This band and album do anything but shy away from the fact that they’re heavily influenced by 80s rock. There’s a confidence this band carries in their lyricism and sound that translates really well in this album. Even if you don’t love 80s rock or have never heard any, this could be a great place to start. Got to give some credit to The Bites for bringing back an iconic sound into this new day and age.
