Wheelbite explode in sound on high-octane Pop Punk EP, "Purify"
Pop-punk fans, rejoice! Wheelbite is back with their sophomore EP, “Purify,” and it’s a blast of nostalgia wrapped in crisp, modern production. If their debut, “Down Bad,” introduced them to the world, then “Purify” solidifies them as a band with staying power. Across six tracks clocking in at just around 16 minutes, the Downstate New York five-piece channels the raw energy and emotion that defined the early 2000s pop-punk scene, while adding their own modern flair. For anyone who still has “Enema of the State” and “Dookie” on repeat, this one’s for you.
From the moment the opening track “Cut Your Losses” kicks in, it’s clear that Wheelbite has sharpened their sound. The song bursts out of the gate with thundering drums and a roaring guitar riff that immediately sets the tone for the rest of the EP. It’s a no-holds-barred anthem about moving on, and it captures the essence of what makes pop-punk so beloved: angst, defiance, and just the right amount of catchy, sing-along hooks. The drumming stands out from the start, with rhythms that pound like a heartbeat, guiding the track’s intensity and driving the energy forward.
The standout feature of “Purify” is how Wheelbite manages to stay true to the genre’s roots while pushing their sound into the present day. You can hear echoes of blink-182, Sum 41, and early Green Day throughout, but there’s also a fresh edge that makes the EP feel current and exciting. The production is polished yet raw, allowing each instrument to shine without losing the grit that makes pop-punk feel authentic. The guitars are loud and proud, with riffs that are memorable and heavy, while the vocals are impassioned, striking a balance between vulnerability and power.
Another highlight of the EP is “8 Ball,” a track that epitomizes everything great about Wheelbite’s style. With driving guitars, a catchy chorus, and lyrics that hit like a punch to the gut, “8 Ball” is both anthemic and deeply relatable. It’s the kind of song that makes you want to scream the lyrics at the top of your lungs in your car, windows down, without a care in the world. The guitar work is particularly impressive, switching between chunky, distorted chords and melodic, lead riffs that add a layer of complexity to the song.
Lyrically, “Purify” captures the emotions of navigating relationships, personal struggles, and finding clarity amidst the chaos of life. There’s a sense of growth and maturity that shines through, showing that Wheelbite has not only refined their sound but also deepened their songwriting. While “Down Bad” felt like an introduction, “Purify” is more of a statement: a declaration that Wheelbite is here to stay, with something to say.
If there’s one thing Wheelbite has proven with “Purify,” it’s that they know how to take the best elements of pop-punk and make them their own. The six tracks on the EP offer a perfect mix of high-octane riffs, catchy melodies, and heartfelt lyrics, all delivered with a modern twist that keeps the genre feeling alive and relevant. For fans of the classic sound who are looking for something new to get excited about, Wheelbite is a band worth keeping an eye on.
It’s the perfect soundtrack for letting off some steam, whether you’re reliving your teen angst or just looking for something to rock out to on a Friday night. With its combination of nostalgia and innovation, this EP is bound to resonate with listeners who crave the raw, unfiltered energy that only great pop-punk can deliver. In our current world which seems to reflects on the “great” pop punk bands of the past, we’re just thrilled they’re taking it into the future. Go ahead and crank it up loud, follow along, and stay tuned for more by clicking those important links below.
Like what you read? Follow our social media and playlist for the latest in independent music: