25/04/11
I read that you were very stressed and losing sleep about the new album, has the stress gone now its all done and dusted?The stress never leaves it just moves else where and manifests in other ways but I am happy that the record is finally out!
Why call it Billy Talent III? Do you not believe in album names or is there a reason behind it?No reason, it’s just out third album!
Do you think / hope that this album, with it's harder, more grungy edge, will make people take you more seriously and take you out of the pop-punk genre?I never thought we were in the pop punk genre and I think anyone that has seen us play knows we’re not a pop punk band but that’s funny.
The grungier edge must have been helped a little by Pearl Jam producer Brendan O'Brien, the producer of Billy Talent III, and he was quote unquote your 'dream producer'. Did he live up to expectations?He did… it was a pleasure to work with him and I think we all learned a lot…the record sounds amazing.
What do you think he brought to the album that you havent had before?Experience… he knew sonically what we wanted and got it for us.
I read that you made him a fake directors chair with his name on and he wasn't amused. Did you manage to make him laugh or was it all business?I made him laugh! He actually made me laugh a lot… he’s a great story teller and has plenty to choose from…
You say that it was early nineties music and bands that influenced you - do you think that current bands who aren't as old and havent been around as long are missing something?No that’s the circle of music… every band and every generation passes something on so new bands are still getting influenced by that whole movement without even knowing it! Ps... we’re not that old!
Are there any new bands that you think are worth listening to at the moment?Brand New… Hayden… Alexisonfire
You've been on tour across the globe this year and one of your last spots in the uk is our home town of Norwich, what can we expect?Well actually we’re just getting started! Just finishing a US tour right now and then over to the UK… we love it there. Expect Norwich to never be the same again!
The day after your Norwich gig is halloween and you have a day off. Anything special planned?I think we’re all gonna get dressed up as the cast of Fame and dance the night away.
What would you be doing at home for halloween?Handing out candy… I always buy way to much and give bucket loads to kids!
Lenore
Billy Talent come to the UEA on Friday 30th October. For tickets, go to www.ueaticketbookings.co.uk or call 01603 508050.