Toronto’s Billy Talent, already riding two triple-platinum records, stands as a veteran presence in the rock scene. Guitarist Ian D’Sa and bassist Jon Gallant paused their busy schedule to reflect on their latest project and the road that keeps them sharp, as they discuss the album Billy Talent III and the life that surrounds it.
On Billy Talent III, the band explores a fresh sonic path. D’Sa notes that the record carries a distinct new feel. “It definitely has a new sound to it,” he explains. “It brings back some of our early 90s grunge influence. A lot of the songs are heavier in a rock way, not so much in a scream-y way.” The members describe the collection as a more overt embrace of both 70s rock and their grunge roots, a deliberate move toward a broader, more confident voice on the album.
Their current listening list reveals a blend of classic and contemporary favorites. Gallant names Wings, Paul McCartney, and Mother Mother as part of his present rotation. D’Sa chimes in about Mudhoney, noting he rediscovered the band through a mixed tape that includes a few of their tracks, a reminder that musical influences can surface long after first hearing them.
When it comes to tour essentials, Gallant highlights the indispensable role of personal gear. “An iPod is definitely a very important thing to have because it goes on the plane and it goes on the bus,” he says. “It’s like an escape from everything that’s going on around you; it gives you a bit of a break.” That little pocket of music becomes a portable refuge amid the nonstop pace of life on the road.
Free time on tour is a mix of rest and exploration. Gallant explains the routine of trying to sleep, followed by long walks lasting several hours. He jokes about getting momentarily lost, sometimes badly so, during travels. One Belgian detour stretched for hours, leaving him chasing a familiar hotel in a maze of streets. He notes that walking alongside D’Sa can feel like keeping up with a jogger, a playful nod to their different touring rhythms.
Their favorite cities to visit reflect a genuine love for European culture. D’Sa shares a soft spot for Paris and its rich atmosphere, while Gallant adds that the major European capitals are consistently impressive and inspiring for artists on the move.
Star-struck moments still surface on tour. Gallant recalls the day he met Dave Grohl, a moment that felt both thrilling and a touch overwhelming. Grohl came across as kind and down-to-earth, yet the encounter left him feeling like he was meeting someone important in his life, almost like meeting a girlfriend’s father for the first time. He admits he wanted to be on his toes and attentive in that moment.
Dream collaborators emerge in the conversation as well. D’Sa expresses a hopeful wish for a Soundgarden reunion and the chance to work with that legacy. Gallant imagines collaborations with classic rock legends who aren’t active on stage as much anymore, naming Led Zeppelin and The Black Diamonds as groups he would love to see resurface and perform again.
Thank you, Ian D’Sa and Jon Gallant!