Make no mistake, Child Bite has the energy of the loudest and rowdiest of punk bands and the vocal absurdity of mewithoutYou (in a less well implemented manner) or Of Montreal. But somehow it just comes off as contrived. While both of the previously mentioned bands thrive off of their inventive lyrics, Child Bite’s are… well, childish. I realize that those particular comparisons may be unfair, however on Gold Thriller, Child Bite does make up for certain musical shortcomings with their enthusiasm.

The pounding bass of “I Like Friends” will get you grooving and maybe even dancing a little, as will “Don’t Do What Your Body Tells You To Do” but it’s then that the band’s obvious earnestness begins to break down. “Gudavia” is possibly the most annoying instrumental track released this year, with a SEGA-era video-game synth loop that will make you drive your head through the wall if you don’t click the next button fast enough. “Ape Along” has a decent pop-punk riff with just enough defiance to hold the listener’s attention.

“Muscle Chalet” brings back the pounding bass of the album’s first track with classic rock organ. The shout-vocals are more effective here with dark humor as the Shawn Knight yells “how long can one live/ on a diet of fruit and dark chocolate”. The song is entertaining as long as you maintain the perspective that the band is being humorous on purpose. One can’t be too sure, however. 

(Originally posted in Regen Mag)

 Check out Child Bite on myspace: www.myspace.com/childbite