The Bites bring the attitude on their self-titled album.
Written by Erika Szumel
Los Angeles rock and roll band The Bites released their second album, self-titled The Bites, on September 18, 2026. Staying true to their roots, this album brings the fun back to rock n’ roll with everything you want in rock music—an electric guitar and catchy riffs, solid chord progressions, a steady backbeat, and high-energy vocals.
Right out of the gate, the first track, Whenever You’re Ready, starts with an exciting beat and slowly builds up to the chorus. During this track, lead singer Jordan Tyler remarks about a guy dating a girl, and how that guy is not the right one for her: “I bet you're tired of cryin', honey / But he's got the house and the cars and the money”. The energy builds as the trackarrives at the simple, catchy chorus:“I’ll be waiting here, whenever you’re ready.” It’s a great start to the album and showcases the band’s ability to share raw emotions in their music.
The band released the single, Aftertaste, on June 3.., It was the first of four singles that would be released before the album. This track, sixth on the record, is catchy, authentic, and anthemic—matched with a heavy, chuggy guitar riff and a big burst of attitude meant to be sung loud and proud at a stadium. It immediately begins with a guitar beat and the clear, crisp vocals of lead singer Tyler singing the chorus, “I wanna love her all night / But she got me wasted all day / Sweet on my lips like candy / But I’m just not crazy about the aftertaste.”
Waiting starts as a softer trackon the album, played with an acoustic guitar for the first minute. It’s a nice contrast to the high-energy of the other tracks, and it’s another track about yearning for the one you love. The lyrics state it clearly, “I’ve been waiting for you / And I’ll keep waiting / Because you and me we can’t be separated / I’ve been waiting for you / And I’ll keep waiting /Because I know you’re waiting for me too.” The energy picks up after the first minute, with an electric riff from guitarist Jono Richer, and the beat remains for the rest of the track.
The entire album, from start to finish, features 11 tracks, with a total run time of 37 minutes. While The Bites have put their own modern spin on the classic 80s rock sound, there are clear influences from rock bands from that era, such as Guns N’ Roses, Mötley Crüe, KISS, Aerosmith, and many other greats. By incorporating guitar solos, a sense of attitude, and catchy hooks, listening to this album feels nostalgic, but also refreshing.
For fans of:
Gene the Werewolf, Burly Whistlepig, This House We Built
