What makes Try Honesty by Billy Talent notable?

'Try Honesty' was pivotal in propelling Billy Talent into mainstream recognition, peaking at number one on the Canadian Albums Chart. The album's lead single also received significant radio play, contributing to the band's influence on the post-hardcore and alternative rock movements in the early 2000s. Released on September 1, 2003, 'Try Honesty' marked Billy Talent's debut album, introducing their sound to a wider audience after the band's formation in 1993. This album established them as a significant force in the Canadian punk rock scene, particularly following their successful EP release in 2001.

How many songs are on Try Honesty?

Try Honesty has 3 tracks, running approximately 9 minutes.

Try Honesty

Billy Talent · 2003

9 min · 3 tracks · alternative rock

A raw fusion of punk energy and melodic hooks that captures youthful angst and defiance.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Try Honesty — As the title track, this song encapsulates the album's themes of rebellion and self-reflection while showcasing the band's energetic instrumentation and vocal delivery.
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When I Was a Little Girl — This track provides a poignant look back at childhood innocence contrasted with adult challenges, highlighting the band's lyrical depth amidst catchy melodies.
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Beachballs — This demo version hints at the band's creative process, providing fans insight into their evolution and retaining a rawness that complements the polished tracks.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

50 /100

Foothills

Higher than 23% of albums we've rated

The EP showcases strong energy and solid songwriting, establishing a distinct sound for the band.

What we noticed

The title track features a dynamic shift in intensity, starting with a subdued verse that explodes into a powerful chorus.
Each song maintains a consistent tempo, with energetic guitar riffs driving the melodies throughout.
The EP closes with 'Beachballs', which introduces a lighter, more playful tone compared to the preceding tracks.

Composition 25% of the score: 6/10
Craft 20% of the score: 7/10
Durability 25% of the score: 5/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 7/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 6/10

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.