Studio album 3
Since the release of their debut and hitting the mainstream back in 1993, Billy Talent has become one of Canada’s biggest rock bands.
‘Billy Talent III’ is the band's third studio album, fourth if you include ‘Watoosh!’ and is a very addictive listen.
‘Watoosh!’ heard the band mixing a variety of genres from hip-hop to indie as well as ska, creating some very diverse songs. As they have progressed, their sound has become more defined. They have hit a point with this release, where alternative rock with some punk elements is dominant and a hard rock edge is noticeable with some fast drumming, heavy guitar and bass riffs.
As the band has progressed vocally, the voice of Ben Kowalewicz has become much more pleasurable to listen to. There is a Billie Joe Armstrong style with a little more…shout out passion. I like the way in which the vocals are shared on the verses as well as chorus. There is a raw main voice with backing vocals so connected to singing the same lines melodiously that it feels like you are surrounded by amity. A harmonious verse as well as chorus makes for a well-rounded tune and adds something a little different.
Billy Talent create an in-your-face album with ‘Billy Talent III’. There is not one song you wouldn’t want to be a part of. Some make you want to sway from side to side while others are more fist-in-the-air rock. One element that is widely used throughout this record is the sing along choruses you can’t help but want to scream at the top of your lungs, if only you knew the words. There isn’t one song to skip for any reason. You can actually get so into the music you don’t even release the time passing you by as you are so tuned in. This is going to be a colossal hit.
Billy Talent will be playing both the Leeds and Reading Festivals in August.