Try Honesty (EP) is the debut extended play (EP) by Canadian alternative‑rock band Billy Talent. It was originally self‑released in 2001 and later re‑issued on 1 September 2003. The EP marks the group’s first release under the name “Billy Talent” after previously performing as “Pezz.”
Background and production
The recordings were made at The Music Gym in Burlington, Ontario, and were engineered and mixed by Justin Koop in collaboration with the band members themselves【Alchetron】. The original release was a self‑produced effort, while the later re‑release featured slightly altered artwork and additional pressing details【Alchetron】.
Release history
| Date | Format | Label | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2001 | CD‑R (independent) | Self‑released | Original pressing, limited run |
| 1 September 2003 | CD (re‑release) | Self‑released | Revised cover art (red background with band photo) and wider distribution【Alchetron】 |
Artwork
The first edition of the EP displays black‑and‑white lettering on an all‑green background. The 2003 re‑release replaces this with a red background featuring a photograph of the band【Alchetron】.
Track listing
Original 2001 version (as listed on Genius)
- “Try Honesty” (2001 Demo) – 4:14
- “How It Goes” (2001 Demo) – 4:16
- “Cut the Curtains” (2001 Demo) – 3:57
- “Beach Balls” – 3:50
Re‑release 2003 version (as reported by Alchetron)
- “Try Honesty” – 4:14
- “Living in the Shadows” – 4:15
(Track ordering differs between the two pressings; both versions are documented in independent sources.)
Personnel
- Benjamin Kowalewicz – lead vocals
- Ian D’Sá – guitar
- Jon Gallant – bass
- Aaron Solowoniuk – drums
Additional credits include engineering by Justin Koop and production by the band themselves.
Reception and legacy
The EP is considered a rare collector’s item, occasionally fetching high prices on secondary markets such as eBay【Alchetron】. Though limited in commercial impact at the time of its original release, the EP garnered the attention of producer Gavin Brown, who later helped Billy Talent secure a major‑label contract and achieve mainstream success【Alchetron】. A music video for the title track received modest airplay on the cable channel Fuse in late 2003【Alchetron】.
Significance
Try Honesty served as a pivotal early recording that demonstrated Billy Talent’s songwriting and performance style, laying groundwork for their breakthrough single “Try Honesty” (re‑recorded for their 2003 self‑titled debut album) and subsequent rise in the early‑2000s alternative‑rock scene.
References
- Alchetron, “Try Honesty (EP) – The Free Social Encyclopedia,” 2026.
- Genius, “Billy Talent – Try Honesty EP Tracklist,” accessed 2026.
- Various discography listings (MusicBrainz, Discogs) confirming release dates and recording location.