Billy Talent – Self-Titled

Ever since May I have been a fan of this four piece punk rock band from Toronto. They captured me by total surprised and hooked me in with their immensely powerful live show, their debut self-titled release did not let me down in anyway whatsoever.

Every song on this album is perfectly constructed to suit it’s need. There really is no bad track on it. The vocals by front man Benjamin Kowalewicz teeter on and surpass the point of screaming all the while keeping a melodic feel to it; it is a voice unlike any other found in the music market today. Benjamin is not alone as he is backed up by Ian D’sa (guitar) and Jon Gallant (bass) who both supply their vocal talents. From one song to another you will notice that there seem to be some vocal duals where the lead (Ben) is helped immensely by the background vocals; creating a kind of 3 dimensional feel.

Lyrically, Billy Talent has not taken a step back, but in fact a step forward. Heroin-addicted prostitutes, Multiple Sclerosis, and simply the trouble lies cause are just some of the subject matters the band sings about. It is a band that speaks their mind and emotions, not conforming to what the “public” wants to hear. As always, the lyrics tell a story, but they are nothing unless backed by powerful music. In this case, Billy Talent has the music to back the vocals. Intoxicating bass melodies are mixed in perfectly with the powerful guitar work by Ian. Both of which are backed up by the drumming skills of Aaron Solowoniuk. If the vocals don’t get implanted into your memory, the tune surely will.

The CD is definitely one of the top ten of the year in my book. But it is not for everyone. I do recommend it, but if you are afraid of something new, something that breaks the boundaries of punk and rock and and melts them together, then this is not for you. If you like original bands and songs, then this is a CD which will rarely leave your CD player.