5/10

While it has been over a decade since Billy Talent first enjoyed the dizzying heights of their explosive fame, the band have since gone on to release some less appreciated works, ending in a greatest hits compilation in 2014. And while a 'Best Of' usually signifies the end of a band's career, the Canadian outfit have returned with their fifth full-length 'Afraid Of Heights', something that sees them going through a small reinvention.

Fans of the band's first two albums will remember this group as a fast and energetic band, with a preference for notable guitar riffs. This record however sees them opt for a more traditional rock sound with less of that signature Billy Talent flare. While tracks like 'Ghost Ship Of Cannibal Rats' do see that familiar edge, the majority of this release has little identity with the band themselves and could have come from any mediocre rock band of the last ten years.

In all, 'Afraid Of Heights' is an extremely safe release with not much to say. It seems that the band have got to the point where taking risks no longer pays off and they are simply looking to add to their already very popular repertoire. A so-so record at best.