Author: Billy Talent

Brand: WACR2

Release Date: 2006-06-27

Details: Amazon.ca Although this "young" band has been together for years, the four musicians collectively known as "Billy Talent" have watched their lives change dramatically since the 2003 release of their successful self-titled debut. The group's videos dominated Much Music while their songs remained on the charts long enough to reach double-platinum status in Canada. On a personal level, two members have gotten married, one had a baby, and drummer Aaron Solowoniuk has admitted in a letter to fans that he has Multiple Sclerosis. As far as their musical changes are concerned, the most immediate difference on ll is that frontman Ben Kowalewicz sings considerably more melodically than ever before. The CD's first single, "Devil in a Midnight Mass"--a lyrically deft, desperate number about one child's sexual abuse by a Priest--comes to a spine-chilling conclusion, further heightened by Kowalewicz's screams. Three more songs pass, however, before the singer once again lets out his trademark outcry, effectively reinforcing "Worker Bees'" anti-war lyrics. On the instrumental front, guitarist Ian D'Sa continues his metal-infused guitar riffs, though the band's mellower songs ("Surrender," "Pins and Needles") could easily sneak onto pop radio. Longtime fans will find plenty of familiar elements; producer Gavin Brown has returned, once again focusing on Billy Talent's heavily-staccato'd style, but amping it up significantly, especially on standout tracks "Sympathy" and "Covered in Cowardice." All in all, ll is a great showcase of their thrash-meets-melody style, guaranteeing to not disappoint their devoted fan base. --Denise Sheppard

UPC: 075678394157

EAN: 0075678394157

Languages: English

Binding: Audio CD

Item Condition: UsedVeryGood