Billy Talent - Billy Talent II

What sets Toronto’s Billy Talent apart from so many screamo-punk pretenders is the band’s issue-oriented songs and singer Ben Kowalewicz’ surprisingly melodic throat-shredding roar. The group’s second album, co-produced by Gavin Brown and guitarist Ian D’Sa, bristles with explosive energy and raging conviction. From the opening salvo “Devil in Midnight Mass” and the fiery “Red Flag” to the searing “Covered in Cowardice” and the closing “Burn the Evidence,” there’s no room for wimpy apathy.

June 27