Oh Billy Talent…

This Canadian ball of energy has had quite a run of albums so far in their career. Known for their hyperactivity and sharp-as-a-tack rhythm section, these guys continue to live up to their reputation with Dead Silence, their 4th studio offering.

Slated for release on September 7th, Dead Silence takes cues from their previous record (2009’s Billy Talent III) by toning down some of the hyper-punk energy in favor of more head-bobbing grooves. As usual, the melodies are strong and the guitar riffs are abnormally perfect… with 14 tracks to wrap your head around.

Some stand-outs: “Runnin’ Across the Tracks” (choppy, groovy, yelling, and crazy fast backup vocals), “Crooked Minds” (easily a new favorite BT song, infectious groove, heavy guitars), and “Man Alive!” (almost starts like “Walking on Sunshine” by Katrina & the Waves, sporadic guitar, another head-bobber, with a fast-paced shouty chorus).

Have a listen to the first single, “Viking Death March” here on their Soundcloud page:

Bottom line: Billy Talent fans are about to be thrilled. Don’t even bother listening to song clips, just go buy it next week. The last third of the record slows down and becomes a little more epic/anthemic than rockin’ (which is a welcome pace change), but the rest of Dead Silence will satisfy your yearning for the last 3 years, regardless which side of BT you prefer.

Rating: 8.5/10