Billy Talent didn’t disappoint with BillyTalent II and it’s that simple. The album comes at listeners like the Indy 500; full of energy and full of noise. The vocals bark in our face, but aren’t obnoxious and musically Billy Talent know where to put the right hooks at the right times.
Right out of the box II opens with the in-your-face “Devil in a Midnight Mass” with thick bass lines and a strong melody. Track two, “Red Flag” is extremely energetic and if it doesn’t get you moving check for a heartbeat. “Pins and Needles” balances the album by being on the mellow side, while “Where is the Line” is simply an enjoyable song. Other noteworthy songs are “Sympathy” for it’s addictive bass guitar licks and “Surrender” because it borders arena rock capabilities.
If Billy Talent doesn’t turn heads with Billy Talent II then there is something wrong with our world. Outside of the music aspect of this album, the illustrations in the liner notes correspond with the song titles and meanings making me happy that I’ve still held out on the Ipod craze. Billy Talent II is one of the best records of the summer and I give it a 10 (out of 10).
Suggested Listening: “Red Flag,” “Where is the Line?,” “Sympathy” and “Fallen Leaves”
By: Adam Karol – Senior Editor / Founder
