★★★
Afraid Of Heightsis the fifth studio album from Canadian punk band Billy Talent, and the first album they’ve released in the absence of original drummer Aaron Solowoniuk, who has been forced to take a lengthy break from music due to health concerns.
That said, Alexisonfire’s Jordan Hastings is the one holding the sticks on this album, and he doesn’t miss a beat.
Despite missing a founding member, Billy Talent have had no trouble channelling their almost trademark political angst into yet another album full of catchy, angry punk rock. Opening track ‘Big Red Gun’ gives a frustrated assessment of America’s current firearm issues, while ‘This Is Our War’ calls for a fully fledged political revolution. ‘Louder Than The DJ’ laments the over-commercialisation of the music industry and the way culture has been saturated by formulaic pop garbage.
Billy Talent use every track to make a statement, and their anger can be felt throughout: this isn’t an album for someone who wants to be left with positive vibes about the world.
If you wanted Billy Talent to move into more experimental ground, you’re going to be disappointed, but if you love their brand of punk, then you’re in for a treat.
Billy Talent’sAfraid Of Heightsis out now on Warner.
