By Wayne Baggs
Billy Talent rolled into Toronto’s RBC Amphitheatre on July 18, 2026, and if there was any doubt they can still put on one of the best live rock shows in the country, it disappeared about two songs in. The place was packed, the crowd was fired up before the band even walked on stage, and from there it was full speed ahead.
Benjamin Kowalewicz was everywhere, running across the stage, getting the crowd singing, and making sure there wasn’t a dull moment all night. Ian D’Sa, Jonathan Gallant, and drummer Aléjandro Serritiello were locked in from start to finish, with Billy Talent sounding as tight and powerful as ever. They didn’t overcomplicate anything—they just came out and played hard.
The set mixed plenty of the songs everyone wanted to hear with some newer material, and the fans were into every minute of it. It didn’t matter if you were down at the front or farther back on the lawn, everyone seemed to know every word. There were mosh pits, fists in the air, and thousands of voices singing along. That’s what a Billy Talent show is all about.
One of the night’s most memorable moments came when longtime drummer Aaron Solowoniuk, who has been living with multiple sclerosis, came on stage to embrace his bandmates during the celebration of the anniversary of their landmark debut album. It was a genuine, heartfelt moment that drew one of the biggest cheers of the night and reminded everyone that Billy Talent has always been about more than just the music.
From a photographer’s point of view, the lighting looked great and made for some fun shots without taking anything away from the performance. It was one of those nights where the band gave you lots to work with because they never stood still.
A big thank you goes to Ian D’Sa for helping me out with a photo pass. It’s always appreciated and gave me the opportunity to capture another outstanding Canadian band doing what they do best. Billy Talent didn’t try to reinvent themselves—they simply came out, played their hearts out, and reminded everyone why, more than 20 years later, they’re still one of the best live rock bands Canada has ever produced.
BKonthescene 