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Arkells is a Canadian rock band, formed in Hamilton, Ontario. In 2006, they signed with Dine Alone Records,[1] and have since signed with Universal Music Canada.[2] They have released nine albums: Jackson Square (2008), Michigan Left (2011), High Noon (2014), Morning Report (2016), Rally Cry (2018), Blink Once (2021), Blink Twice (2022), Laundry Pile (2023) and Disco Loadout, Volume 1 (2024). The band has been nominated for over 15 Juno Awards; winning Rock Album of the Year for High Noon and Rally Cry, and six times for Group of the Year.[3]

Key Information

History

[edit]

Formation and Jackson Square (2006–2010)

[edit]

During their first few live shows the band called themselves Charlemagne but changed their name when another band of the same name threatened to sue them. The band is named after Arkell Street in the Westdale neighbourhood of Hamilton,[4] near McMaster University, where they lived and would practice their music. All five original band members attended McMaster where lead singer Max Kerman graduated with an honours BA in political science. Kerman met guitarist Mike DeAngelis at a McMaster Welcome Week event where they discovered they had an identical taste in music.[5]

Arkells' debut album Jackson Square was released 28 October 2008 on Dine Alone Records.[6] In late 2008, Arkells toured Canada as opening act for Matt Mays & El Torpedo.[7] Later that year, on November 22, they performed the halftime show at the Vanier Cup in their hometown.[8]

Arkells performing at the Sound of Music Festival in Burlington, Ontario in 2010

In early 2009 they toured with Waking Eyes across Canada.[9] Arkells were featured on Aux.tv's Alt Sessions where they performed their full EP.[10] In October, 2009, Arkells won a favourite new artist CASBY Award (short for Canadian Artists Selected by You) from Toronto radio station 102.1 The Edge at a ceremony and concert at Toronto's Kool Haus.[11] The band also performed at the event.[11] In April 2010, the band won the Juno Award for New Group of the Year,[12][13] and on May 15, 2010, were picked to open for Them Crooked Vultures at the Air Canada Centre in Toronto.[14]

Michigan Left and High Noon (2011–2015)

[edit]

In 2011, the band wrote and recorded their second album Michigan Left, which was released on October 18 of that year. The first single, "Whistleblower", was released on July 5, 2011. The band also released a second song, "Kiss Cam", in July. On 6 October 2011 it was announced that Dan Griffin would be leaving the band to go back to school.[15] He was replaced by Anthony Carone.[15] In 2012, Arkells won the 2012 Juno Award for Group of the Year.[16]

On April 7, 2014, Arkells released the first track, "Never Thought That This Would Happen", from their third album, which was produced by Tony Hoffer (Beck, The Kooks, M83). One month later, on May 13, the band released the album's first single "Come to Light", and confirmed the title of the record would be High Noon. The record was released on Dine Alone/Universal Records, August 5, 2014.[17]

The band toured extensively, including tours in the United States with Lights, Tokyo Police Club, The Postelles, X Ambassadors, and Lydia; European touring with Billy Talent, Augustines, British Sea Power, and Anti-Flag as well as Canadian touring with Metric, the Tragically Hip, Hollerado, and Sam Roberts. At the Juno Awards of 2015, the group won the Juno Award for Group of the Year and the Juno Award for Rock Album of the Year. High Noon was also long listed for the Polaris prize in 2015.[18] On October 23, 2015, the band released a new EP, "Study Music", which they self-produced and released on Universal Music Canada/Dine Alone Records.

Morning Report and Rally Cry (2016–2020)

[edit]
Arkells performing in Maquoketa, Iowa in 2016

Arkells began teasing new material from their forthcoming album on tour in the spring of 2016. The fourth album, Morning Report, was released on August 5, 2016.[19] The first single, "Private School", debuted on May 6, 2016, and charted at number 1 that summer.[citation needed] The video features cameos from Lights, Dave Monks of Tokyo Police Club and Steve Jocz (formerly of Sum 41), who also directed the video.[20]

At the Juno Awards of 2017, Arkells were nominated for Juno Award for Group of the Year and the Juno Award for Rock Album of the Year.[21] They performed their viral hit "Drake's Dad" live on the television broadcast.[22] They released a new single on April 7, 2017, entitled "Knocking at the Door".[23] The track shot to number 1 on the Canadian alt/rock charts, where it spent 14 weeks at #1.[24] It also became their first #1 Active Rock single. They performed the track live that summer on the 2017 NHL Awards in Las Vegas and the 2017 iHeartRadio MuchMusic Video Awards in Toronto. In the summer of 2017, the band toured the festival circuit, playing Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival,[25] Osheaga Festival,[26] and Sasquatch! Music Festival.[27] Later in the year, the track cracked the US ALT chart, peaking at #39.[citation needed]

DeAngelis (left) and Kerman (right) performing in Edmonton, Alberta in 2018

In February 2018, the band was invited to South Korea to perform for the Canadian Olympic team during the 2018 Winter Olympics.[28] In June 2018, the band played at Tim Hortons Field in their hometown of Hamilton for a crowd of 24,000 people. It was the largest crowd for an outdoor show in Hamilton since Pink Floyd drew 50,000 to Ivor Wynne Stadium in 1975.[29][30] On August 15, 2018, the band announced that their fifth studio album, Rally Cry, would be released on October 19, 2018.[31] On June 23, 2018, Arkells hosted a major hometown concert, dubbed "The Rally", at Tim Hortons Field in Hamilton, Ontario. The concert was paired with several events across the city including a market outside the stadium, a bike ride to the show, and featured Ellevator, Bishop Briggs, and Cold War Kids.[32] Arkells released their fifth studio album, Rally Cry, on October 19, 2018, accompanied by a Canadian tour featuring Lord Huron as the opening act. The tour featured the Arkells' largest arena show yet, at the Scotiabank Arena in Toronto on February 16, 2019.

On February 25, 2020, the band released the new single and video "Years in the Making".[33] On July 30, they released the single "Quitting You", and announced the release of Campfire Chords, a full-length album featuring acoustic versions of earlier songs, on August 20.[34] Each member recorded his part at home during the COVID-19 quarantine and sent it to Carone, who then edited, mixed and produced the pieces into complete songs.

[edit]

On March 25, 2021, the band released the new single and video "You Can Get It", featuring guest vocals by K.Flay.[35] The single was featured in the trailer of the video game Forza Horizon 5, as well as in one of the in-game radio stations.[36] The single “All Roads” was later released. Both of these singles were included on the band's sixth studio album Blink Once, which was released on September 22, 2021.[37] On December 12, 2021, the band performed at the halftime show of the 108th Grey Cup at Tim Horton's Field in Hamilton.[38]

On June 23, 2022, the band announced that their studio album Blink Twice will be released on September 23. The album features collaborations with Cold War Kids, Aly and AJ, Tegan and Sara and Beatrice Martin.[39] After two years of postponements due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the band held the second edition of "The Rally" at Tim Hortons Field in Hamilton, Ontario on June 25, 2022. The show featured similar events to the first event in 2018, with a market, bike ride to the show, as well as the unveiling of a collaboration with several organizations to renovate a local basketball court as an effort to improve sport in the community.[40][41] The concert was their largest yet with 27,000 fans in attendance and featured openers Haviah Mighty, K.Flay, and Mt. Joy.[42]

Laundry Pile (2023–present)

[edit]

On September 21, 2023, the band released their eighth studio album (Campfire Chords excluded) Laundry Pile, featuring pre-released singles "Skin" and "Laundry Pile".[43] The album was written and recorded informally during fall of 2022, without the explicit intention of making an album.[43] The songs take on an acoustic form that stay true to each band member's raw musical identities, often with the first takes recorded making the final cut with little production.[44] To celebrate the release of the record, the band held two free pop-up shows at laundromats in Toronto and Hamilton, where they played individual tracks for small group audiences of fifteen people.[43] The band played the album at their "At Your Service" tour across the United States and Southern Ontario in fall of 2023.[45]

Song influences

[edit]

Arkells prominently feature political motivations in their music. This includes "Knocking at the Door," which was written about The Women's March on Washington.[46]

The band has also spoken about their diverse musical influences from Top 40 to Motown.[47]

Band members

[edit]

Current

[edit]
  • Max Kerman – lead vocals, rhythm guitar, keyboards (2006–present)
  • Mike DeAngelis – lead guitar, backing vocals (2006–present)
  • Nick Dika – bass, keyboards (2006–present)
  • Tim Oxford – drums, percussion (2006–present)
  • Anthony Carone – keyboards, rhythm guitar, mandolin, backing vocals (2011–present)

Former

[edit]
  • Dan Griffin – keyboards, rhythm guitar, backing vocals (2006–2011)

Touring

[edit]
  • Tom "Tommy Mo" Moffett – trumpet, backing vocals (2016–present)
  • Ernesto Barahona – trombone, backing vocals (2016–present)
  • Dennis "Dennis P" Passley – tenor saxophone, backing vocals (2016–present)
  • Yvonne "Yvo Boom" Moir – baritone saxophone, backing vocals (2016–present)
  • Ammoye Evans – backing vocals (2016–present)
  • Natasha Henry – backing vocals (2016–present)
  • Shezelle Weekes – backing vocals (2016–present)
  • Maya Killtron – backing vocals, fiddle (2020–present)

Timeline

[edit]

Discography

[edit]

Albums

[edit]
Year Title Chart positions Certifications Label
CAN
[48]
2008 Jackson Square — Dine Alone Records
2011 Michigan Left 5 Universal Music Canada[50]
2014 High Noon 3 Universal Music Canada / Dine Alone Records
2016 Morning Report 3 Universal Music Canada / Last Gang Records
2018 Rally Cry 12 Universal Music Canada / Last Gang Records
2020 Campfire Chords 35 Universal Music Canada
2021 Blink Once 43 Universal Music Canada
2022 Blink Twice[51][52] — Universal Music Canada/Virgin
2023 Laundry Pile — Universal Music Canada
2024 Disco Loadout, Volume I 73 Universal Music Canada

Extended plays

[edit]
Year Title Chart positions Label
CAN
[53]
2008 Deadlines[A] — Dine Alone Records[54]
Live Session (iTunes Exclusive) — Dine Alone Records[55]
2012 iTunes Live from Montreal — Universal Music Canada[56]
2015 Study Music (Songs from High Noon) 55 Universal Music Canada
2016 Arkells on Audiotree Live — Audiotree Music[57]
2019 Arkells on Audiotree Live (No. 2) — Audiotree Music[58]
2021 The Last Christmas (We Ever Spend Apart) — Arkells Music Label[59]
2022 Apple Music Home Session: Arkells — Arkells Music Label[60]

Singles

[edit]
Year Song Peak Chart Positions Certifications Album
CAN
[61] 		CAN
AC
[62] 		CAN
Alt
[63][64] 		CAN
CHR
[65] 		CAN
Rock
[66]
2008 "Oh, the Boss Is Coming!" — — 4 — 8 Jackson Square
2009 "Ballad of Hugo Chávez" — — 12 — 12
"Pullin' Punches" — — 14 — 32
2010 "John Lennon" — — 42 — 48
2011 "Whistleblower" — — 5 — 4 Michigan Left
"Michigan Left" — — 7 — 12
2012 "On Paper" — — 15 — 25
"Ticats are Hummin'" — — — — — Non-album single
2014 "Come to Light" 81 — 2 — 2 High Noon
"Never Thought That This Would Happen" — — — — 46
"Leather Jacket" 88 — 1 — 2
  • MC: 2× Platinum[49]
2015 "11:11" — — — — 12
2016 "Private School" — — 1 — 4 Morning Report
"Drake's Dad" — — — — —
"My Heart's Always Yours" — — 3 — 4
2017 "Knocking at the Door" —[B] 43 1 — 1
  • MC: 2× Platinum[49]
 Morning Report (Deluxe)
2018 "People's Champ" — — 2 — 3 Rally Cry
"Relentless" —[C] 38 — — 1
"Only for a Moment" — — — — —
2019 "Hand Me Downs" —[D] 33 — 34 3
2020 "Years in the Making"[69] — — — — 4 Blink Once
"Quitting You" — — — — 8 Campfire Chords
2021 "You Can Get It"
(featuring K.Flay) 		— — 1 — 5 Blink Once
"All Roads" — — — — —
2022 "Arm in Arm" — — 6 — 9
"Reckoning" — — 15 — 16 Blink Twice
"Past Life"
(featuring Cold War Kids) 		— — 1 — 4
"Dance With You"
(featuring Aly & AJ, Cœur de pirate) 		— — — — —
"Human Being"
(featuring Lights) 		— — — — —
"Teenage Tears"
(featuring Tegan and Sara)[70] 		— — — — —
"Floating Like" — — 19 — 34
2023 "Laundry Pile" — — — — — Laundry Pile
"Skin" — — 9 — 4
2024 "Big Feelings'" — — — — — Non-album single
2025 "Come On, Teacher'" — — — — — Songs from the Gang
"—" denotes a recording that did not chart or was not released in that territory.

Notes

[edit]
  1. ^ Digital re-issue
  2. ^ "Knocking at the Door" did not enter the Billboard Canadian Hot 100, but peaked at number 38 on the Canadian Digital Song Sales chart.[67]
  3. ^ "Relentless" did not enter the Billboard Canadian Hot 100, but peaked at number 47 on the Canadian All-format Airplay chart.[68]
  4. ^ "Hand Me Downs" did not enter the Billboard Canadian Hot 100, but peaked at number 35 on the Canadian All-format Airplay chart.[68]

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Arkells

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
Arkells is a Canadian alternative rock band formed in Hamilton, Ontario, in 2004. The group consists of Max Kerman on lead vocals and guitar, Mike DeAngelis on lead guitar and backing vocals, Nick Dika on bass and keyboards, Anthony Carone on keyboards and backing vocals, and Tim Oxford on drums. Renowned for their high-energy live performances and anthemic songwriting that fuses rock, indie, soul, and modern R&B influences, Arkells have established themselves as a staple of Canadian music with extensive touring across North America and appearances at major festivals such as Coachella and Bonnaroo. Since releasing their debut album Jackson Square in 2008, Arkells have issued seven studio albums, achieving multiple number-one debuts on the Canadian charts, four gold-certified records, and two gold-certified singles. The band has earned nine in total, including wins for Rock Album of the Year for (2015) and Rally Cry (2022), and holds the all-time record with six victories in the Group of the Year category (2012, 2015, 2019, 2021–2023). Their music, often drawing from personal and communal experiences in working-class Hamilton, resonates through radio play and has expanded their fanbase internationally, though they remain particularly dominant in .

Musical style and influences

Core musical elements

Arkells' core musical style fuses with elements of , indie, and R&B, emphasizing anthemic power and emotional intensity. This blend draws from the driving energy of alt-rock, the passionate delivery of vintage , and the melodic intimacy of traditions, resulting in songs that feature robust guitar riffs, layered keyboards, and rhythmic grooves often evoking working-class resilience. The band's standard instrumentation consists of lead vocals by Max Kerman, guitar by Mike DeAngelis, keyboards by Anthony Carone, bass by Nick Dika, and drums by Tim Oxford, providing a solid rock foundation augmented by occasional horns, choral backing, and gospel-inflected harmonies. Their sound is characterized by upbeat, propulsive rhythms and hook-driven choruses that prioritize accessibility and live performance dynamism, as seen in tracks blending urgency with soulful undertones. Melodically, Arkells favor memorable, verse-chorus structures with Kerman's versatile baritone vocals shifting from introspective verses to soaring, stadium-ready refrains, often incorporating pop-soul influences like for added polish and emotional depth. This approach yields a cohesive yet evolving palette, where core rock elements underpin explorations into Motown-inspired grooves and modern indie edges without abandoning high-energy, riff-based propulsion.

Key influences and evolution

The Arkells' sound is rooted in and soul traditions, with prominent influences from Canadian acts such as the , whose raw energy shaped early tracks like "The Boss Is Coming," and , exemplifying effective national rock songcraft. Frontman Max has highlighted familial exposure to classic rock, including his father's collection of vinyl records from the late , which instilled a foundation in melodic songwriting and pop structures. Broader inspirations encompass Motown's rhythmic drive, Bruce Springsteen's narrative-driven anthems, and the ethos emphasizing personal storytelling, as Kerman has described the core of their catalog deriving from this tradition. Over their career, the band's style has evolved from garage-infused toward a more polished fusion of alt-rock, , R&B, and pop elements, reflecting progressive experimentation while retaining high-energy live performance as a constant. Their 2011 album featured upbeat, jangly guitar-driven pop-rock, drawing directly from recent pop listens cited by , marking a shift from rawer university-era demos toward accessible, radio-friendly hooks. By (2014), produced by , they incorporated brighter inflections and broader indie appeal, aligning with their growing festival presence. Subsequent releases further diversified their palette: Morning Report (2016) leaned into soulful, horn-accented grooves, while Rally Cry (2018) amplified anthemic, socially conscious rock with fringed, performative flair signaling maturation in presentation. The 2021 album Blink Once explicitly integrated hip-hop production techniques and pop references, including nods to Kanye West's structural innovations and Adele's emotional dynamics, demonstrating a willingness to transcend rock boundaries amid lineup stability and touring demands. This progression underscores a causal trajectory from Hamilton's local indie scene—where members met as freshmen in 2006—to arena-scale adaptability, prioritizing lyrical resilience and communal uplift without diluting their core rhythmic propulsion.

History

Formation and early releases (2006–2010)

The Arkells, a Canadian rock band, originated in , where core members met as freshmen at in 2006. Lead vocalist and songwriter Max Kerman connected with guitarist Mike DeAngelis on the first day of classes, prompting them to recruit bassist Nick Dika shortly thereafter; the lineup was completed by drummer Tim Oxford and keyboardist Anthony Carone, all of whom attended . Initially performing under the name , the group drew inspiration from the industrial neighborhood of Jackson Square in Hamilton, which later influenced their debut album title. The band self-released their debut , Deadlines, in 2007, featuring tracks that showcased their energetic sound rooted in influences like and . This EP was reissued the following year by the independent label , marking their entry into professional distribution. In 2008, Arkells released their first full-length studio album, Jackson Square, also via Dine Alone, which included singles like "Johnston's Taxi" and received positive reception for its raw, horn-infused anthems reflecting working-class themes. From 2006 to 2010, the band focused on local gigs in Hamilton and , honing their live performance style amid university life, with Kerman balancing studies in . These early efforts built a following through consistent touring in small venues, laying the foundation for broader Canadian recognition without major label backing.

Breakthrough period (2011–2015)

The Arkells achieved wider recognition with their second studio album, Michigan Left, released on October 18, 2011, via Universal Music Canada. The album featured singles such as "Whistleblower" and the title track "Michigan Left," which helped establish their presence on Canadian radio and live circuits. This release propelled the band to win the Group of the Year award at the 2012 Juno Awards, reflecting growing domestic popularity. During this period, the band expanded their touring footprint, including performances across and into the , such as a show in , in 2013. They shared stages with established acts like and Metric, honing their energetic live reputation that became a hallmark of their appeal. The culmination of this breakthrough came with their third album, High Noon, released in August 2014. It debuted at number 3 on the Canadian Nielsen SoundScan chart and number 1 on iTunes , later achieving gold certification. At the 2015 Juno Awards held in , the band secured wins for Rock Album of the Year and Group of the Year for High Noon. These accolades and commercial milestones solidified the Arkells' status as a leading Canadian rock act by 2015.

Consolidation and experimentation (2016–2020)

The Arkells released their fourth studio album, Morning Report, on August 5, 2016, through Universal Music Canada. The record debuted at number three on the Canadian Albums chart and included singles such as "Private School," "Knocking at the Door," and "My Heart's Always Yours." Critics noted a shift toward a lighter, more tuneful style compared to the band's earlier, grittier output, emphasizing accessible melodies and emotional . This album consolidated the group's commercial momentum following their breakthrough era, with extensive touring across that reinforced their reputation for high-energy arena performances. Building on this foundation, the band explored new sonic territories with their fifth album, Rally Cry, released on October 19, 2018, via indie label Last Gang Records. The album entered the Canadian Albums chart at number 12 and featured singles including "People's Champ" and "Only for a Moment," blending piano-driven grooves with soul and R&B influences alongside signature rock anthems. Produced by Eric Ratz, Rally Cry earned the band the Juno Award for Rock Album of the Year in 2019, while Ratz received the Jack Richardson Producer of the Year award for his contributions. This period reflected experimentation in production and genre fusion, as the Arkells incorporated more humble, reflective lyrical themes and rhythmic experimentation, diverging slightly from pure rock toward hybrid pop-soul arrangements. Throughout 2016–2020, the Arkells maintained rigorous touring schedules, headlining arenas and festivals in and expanding into the U.S. market, which supported steady fanbase growth despite the onset of the curtailing live shows by late 2020. Their consistent chart performance and award wins during this span affirmed their status as a leading Canadian rock act, with Rally Cry's U.S. debut marking a key step in international consolidation.

Recent developments (2021–present)

In September 2021, Arkells released their sixth studio album, Blink Once, via Universal Music Canada, featuring tracks such as "You Can Get It" with and "All Roads," the latter earning a Juno Award for Rock Single of the Year. The album, initially recorded before the , emphasized themes of resilience and connection. That June, the band secured their fourth Juno Award for Group of the Year, highlighting their sustained commercial and critical standing in Canadian rock. The following year saw the release of Blink Twice in 2022, positioned as a guest-heavy companion to Blink Once with additional collaborations. In 2023, Arkells issued Laundry Pile on September 21, an intimate album exploring personal introspection and life's "messy parts," including the title track released earlier that May. By 2024, the band released Disco Loadout (Volume 1) on May 17, a covers album reflecting their influences, alongside the EP Nobody Gets Me Like You Do (Love Songs Collection). Touring resumed vigorously post-pandemic, with the BIG FEELINGS tour supporting recent material and festival appearances. As of that year, Arkells had accumulated nine Juno Awards overall. Looking ahead, they scheduled "The Rally" stadium event for June 21, 2025, at Hamilton Stadium and their inaugural holiday concert, "Sleigh The Night," on December 18, 2025, at OLG Stage in Niagara Falls.

Band members

Current members

The current members of Arkells are (lead vocals, rhythm guitar, keyboards, since 2006), Mike DeAngelis (lead guitar, backing vocals, since 2006), Nick Dika (bass, since 2006), (drums, since 2006), and Anthony Carone (keyboards, guitar, since 2011). , DeAngelis, Dika, and formed the band while students at in . Carone replaced original keyboardist Dan Griffin in 2011. This lineup has remained stable through the band's releases and tours up to 2025.

Former and touring members

Dan Griffin served as the band's keyboardist and occasional guitarist from its formation in 2006 until his departure on October 6, 2011, to pursue legal studies at the . His exit was announced amid the band's rising success following their debut album Jackson Square, with Griffin temporarily stepping away for education but ultimately not returning to the core lineup; he was permanently replaced by Anthony Carone. No other changes to the core five-member lineup have occurred since. For live performances, particularly since the mid-2010s, Arkells have employed a touring horn section known as the Northern Soul Horns to enhance their brass-heavy arrangements. This group includes Tom Moffett on trumpet and backing vocals, Ernesto Barahona on trombone and backing vocals, Dennis Passley on saxophone and backing vocals, and Yvonne Moir on backing vocals, with credits appearing in live recordings and tour documentation starting around 2017. These members provide additional energy for arena and festival shows but are not part of the studio recording ensemble. The horn section's integration reflects the band's evolution toward fuller live productions, supporting albums like Morning Report without altering the primary songwriting or recording credits.

Timeline of lineup changes

The Arkells' lineup has remained largely consistent since its formation in the mid-2000s, with the core and intact throughout the band's career. The group originated with Max Kerman on lead vocals and guitar, Mike DeAngelis on guitar, Nick Dika on bass, Tim Oxford on drums, and Dan Griffin on guitar and keyboards. In 2011, founding member Dan Griffin departed to complete a at the , with the band announcing the change as temporary but installing a permanent replacement in Anthony Carone, who joined on keyboards and guitar. Griffin contributed to the band's first two albums but shifted focus to a solo career following his exit. Carone's integration coincided with the release of the 2014 album , marking his debut recording with the group. No further permanent departures or additions have occurred, maintaining the six-piece configuration of Kerman, DeAngelis, Dika, , and Carone, supplemented by touring personnel as needed for live performances. This stability has supported the band's evolution across multiple studio releases and extensive touring.

Discography

Studio albums

The Arkells have released nine studio albums as of 2024, evolving from roots to broader alternative and pop influences while maintaining a focus on energetic, horn-driven compositions. Their discography reflects consistent output, with early releases on independent labels transitioning to major distribution through Universal Music Canada for subsequent works.
Album titleRelease dateLabel
Jackson Square, 2008
Michigan Left, 2011Universal Music Canada
High NoonFebruary 4, 2014Universal Music Canada
Morning ReportJuly 15, 2016Universal Music Canada
Rally CryFebruary 15, 2019Universal Music Canada
Blink OnceMarch 12, 2021Universal Music Canada
Blink TwiceMay 6, 2022Universal Music Canada
Laundry PileSeptember 21, 2023Universal Music Canada
Disco Loadout Volume 1May 17, 2024Universal Music Canada
The debut album Jackson Square marked the band's full-length entry, produced independently and featuring 12 tracks that established their live-wire sound inspired by Hamilton's urban landscape. Michigan Left, produced by Dan Griffin, expanded their reach with polished production and singles that gained Canadian radio play. Later albums like Blink Once and Blink Twice represent a paired release strategy during the COVID-19 period, emphasizing resilience themes with remote collaboration elements. Laundry Pile and Disco Loadout Volume 1 continue this trajectory, incorporating more electronic and introspective elements amid touring hiatuses. All post-2011 releases were handled by Universal Music Canada, facilitating wider distribution and physical formats like vinyl reissues.

Extended plays and singles

Arkells released their debut , Deadlines, on April 22, 2008, featuring tracks such as "Oh, the Boss Is Coming!" and "Tragic Flaw," which showcased the band's early raw rock sound prior to their full-length debut. This EP was independently produced and distributed through initial label partnerships. Subsequent EPs included the iTunes-exclusive Live Session EP on June 16, 2009, capturing live renditions intended to build fan engagement during their formative touring phase. In 2012, Good Love (The Pioneer B Sides) emerged as a collection of B-sides and alternate takes, expanding on themes from prior work. The acoustic-focused Study Music EP followed in 2015, reinterpreting five tracks from the album in stripped-down arrangements to offer fans intimate versions amid a busy touring schedule. The New Age EP arrived in 2016, providing additional material aligned with the experimental edge of Morning Report. More recently, Nobody Gets Me Like You Do (Love Songs Collection) was issued on February 10, 2024, compiling romantic-themed tracks. In 2024, Disco Loadout Volume 1 was released on May 17, featuring live and remixed content from ongoing performances.
Extended PlayRelease DateNotes
DeadlinesApril 22, 2008Debut EP with original tracks
Live Session EPJune 16, 2009iTunes live recordings
Good Love (The Pioneer B Sides)2012B-sides collection
Study Music2015Acoustic versions from
The New Age2016Thematic extension of album era
Nobody Gets Me Like You Do (Love Songs Collection)February 10, 2024Curated love songs
Disco Loadout Volume 1May 17, 2024Live/ selections
The band has also produced a prolific array of singles, often as album lead-ins or standalone releases to maintain momentum between full projects. Early singles like "Johnston" preceded Jackson Square in 2008, while "11:11" from gained traction in 2014. "," released May 6, 2016, served as the harbinger for Morning Report. Later examples include "You Can Get It" featuring in early 2021 ahead of Blink Once, "Past Life" in 2023, and "Laundry Pile" on September 21, 2023, tied to the album of the same name. Recent singles encompass "Big Feelings" in 2024 and "Come On, Teacher" in 2025, reflecting ongoing output. These singles frequently charted in , underscoring the band's consistent radio and streaming presence.

Chart performance and certifications

The Arkells' studio albums have primarily charted on the Billboard Canadian Albums chart, reflecting their strong domestic fanbase in , with peaks generally in the top ten for major releases following their debut. No significant charting occurred on the for their albums based on available data. Certifications from indicate sales exceeding 40,000 units for gold status and 80,000 for platinum, primarily for earlier releases.
AlbumRelease yearPeak position (Billboard Canadian Albums)Certification (Music Canada)
Jackson Square2008Not charted in top sources
Michigan Left20115
High Noon20143
Morning Report20163
Rally Cry201812None reported
High Noon achieved platinum status in July 2019, surpassing its initial gold certification awarded in September 2015 after sales exceeded 40,000 units. Singles have seen limited entry on the Billboard Canadian Hot 100, with most success on digital sales charts; for instance, "Knocking at the Door" from Rally Cry earned platinum certification but did not enter the Hot 100, peaking at number 38 on the Canadian Digital Song Sales chart. Other notable certified singles include "11:11" (platinum) and "Leather Jacket" (double platinum), though specific Hot 100 peaks remain low or unreported in primary sources. No RIAA certifications were issued for US sales.

Reception and impact

Critical assessments

Arkells' early work, particularly the 2008 debut Jackson Square, received praise for its raw, energetic sound and relatable storytelling rooted in working-class themes, capturing the band's Hamilton origins with an authentic, unpolished edge. Subsequent albums faced criticism for shifting toward a more polished, synthetic production, which some reviewers and fans interpreted as a departure from the original "soul" and blue-collar grit, evoking accusations of mainstream dilution starting with (2011). Frontman Max Kerman has defended these evolutions as honest explorations of new influences, such as , prioritizing artistic growth over stylistic stasis, even at the risk of alienating early supporters. The 2014 album High Noon earned a Metacritic aggregate score of 74/100 from five reviews, with critics commending its increased sonic depth and ambitious scope aiming for arena-rock stature, though noting limitations in breaking broader international markets beyond Canada. Morning Report (2016) followed with a 69/100 Metascore from four reviews, lauded for vulnerable, introspective lyrics and raw emotional honesty under producers like Tony Hoffer, yet critiqued in one review for a lighter, pop-leaning style that softened the band's earlier rock intensity. Later releases like Rally Cry (2018) garnered positive assessments for blending piano-driven grooves with politically charged yet hopeful lyrics, maintaining an underdog spirit amid calls for solidarity, as noted in reviews highlighting its heart and subtle elements without overt anger. In contrast, Blink Once (2021) drew mixed responses, praised for bold, joyous pop-rock anthems tackling heavy themes but faulted for jauntier, radio-friendly arrangements that rendered it average and less distinctive compared to contemporaries. Overall, while Arkells consistently earn acclaim for Max Kerman's charismatic delivery and thematic accessibility, detractors argue the band's progression toward mainstream polish has traded indie authenticity for broader appeal, reflecting a tension between commercial success in and critical depth.

Commercial achievements and fanbase

The Arkells have attained notable commercial success within Canada, with their first four studio albums—Jackson Square (2008), Michigan Left (2011), High Noon (2014), and Morning Report (2016)—each certified Gold by Music Canada for shipments exceeding 40,000 units. High Noon specifically reached this threshold by August 2015, marking the band's initial album certification. Singles including "Leather Jacket" (2017) have also earned Gold certification, underscoring sustained demand for their material. Their achievements extend to touring metrics, with the band receiving Road Gold certification from in recognition of over 100,000 tickets sold in a single year as of 2019. Albums like Rally Cry (2018) debuted strongly on the Canadian Albums chart, contributing to their reputation as one of Canada's leading rock acts. Multiple Juno Award wins for Group of the Year—six times as of 2024—further affirm their market position, with the awards based on industry and fan voting reflecting commercial viability. The band's fanbase is predominantly Canadian, characterized by high engagement through sold-out arena tours and large-scale events, such as their hometown rally drawing 24,000 attendees at Tim Hortons Field in Hamilton. While building a smaller but growing presence in the United States, their core supporters exhibit loyalty via repeat attendance and community ties, bolstered by approximately 356,000 monthly listeners as of late 2023. This dedicated following has enabled consistent North American touring, though their prominence remains regionally concentrated compared to global rock peers.

Live performances and tours

The Arkells have built a reputation for delivering high-energy live performances, approaching each with the intensity of proving themselves to new audiences despite their established success. Their shows emphasize communal experiences, blending rock anthems with audience interaction to create memorable events. The band has headlined major international festivals, including Coachella and Bonnaroo, showcasing their evolving sound to diverse crowds. In 2013, they performed in Buffalo, New York, during an early U.S. tour stop that highlighted their growing cross-border appeal. Their international reach extended to Europe, with shows such as a 2013 performance in Berlin during a promotional tour. Domestically, the Rally Cry Tour in 2018 marked a milestone, as the Arkells headlined arenas and stadiums across for the first time, coinciding with the release of their Rally Cry and drawing sold-out crowds, including a notable show at Toronto's . They have also curated hometown events like The Rally at Tim Hortons Field in , first held on June 23, 2018, with subsequent editions in 2022 that broke attendance records while supporting local charities such as Indwell housing. Post-pandemic, the Arkells hosted the Arkells Long Weekend in August 2021, featuring three consecutive performances at Toronto's Budweiser Stage—their first major live shows in 16 months and the venue's reopening since 2019—capturing a triumphant return with recordings of tracks like "Years in the Making." Additional high-profile appearances include the halftime show on December 12, 2021, at Tim Hortons Field, and a performance for the Canadian Olympic team at the 2018 in PyeongChang, . These events underscore their role in Canadian cultural milestones, often integrating community engagement and charitable elements.

Public engagement and controversies

Political and social activism

The Arkells have incorporated social commentary into their songwriting, with frontman Max Kerman drawing inspiration from political awareness and activism to address themes of injustice and community solidarity. Tracks such as "People's Champ" (2018) feature lyrics critiquing power structures and have been interpreted as socially conscious anthems, while albums like Rally Cry (2018) emphasize collective action and political engagement. Beyond music, the band partners with the nonprofit PLUS1 to donate $1 per ticket sold during tours, raising over $250,000 by 2022 for organizations focused on health access for marginalized communities. Supported causes include , providing medical services in and ; , aiding LGBTQI refugees and asylum seekers; and local Hamilton initiatives like through Indwell. In 2018, the Arkells headlined "The Rally for Refuge" on June 23 at Tim Hortons Field in , generating funds for the Refuge Hamilton Centre for Newcomer Health and the Canadian Council for Refugees, with $1 per ticket donated. The event highlighted support for immigrants and refugees, with Kerman stating it aids their transition by pooling community resources. Their annual "The Rally" concert series, including the 2022 edition that set attendance records, directs proceeds to Hamilton-based , such as food banks and youth programs. The band has also advocated for environmental causes, joining Ontario's climate action petitions in 2018 and promoting reduced carbon footprints through cycling, public transit, and waste minimization during tours. During the COVID-19 pandemic, they raised $50,000 via a "Flatten The Curve" music class for the Food Banks of Canada and over $15,000 for Hamilton YMCA programs. These efforts earned them the 2022 Allan Slaight Music Impact Honour from Canada's Walk of Fame for community contributions.

Notable disputes and criticisms

In November 2021, the Arkells received a message from an individual named Ron Kells, who claimed the band's name infringed on his personal name and demanded they cease using it ahead of their halftime performance on December 12 in . The communication was written in all capital letters and included a misspelling of "Grey Cup" as "Gray Cup," prompting the band to publicly dismiss the claim as frivolous via , noting their name derives from Arkell Street in Hamilton and lacks any legal basis. Canadian trademark law does not protect personal names in this manner without registration, rendering the assertion non-viable. The band's 2011 album elicited criticism from segments of their fanbase for adopting a more polished production style, described by one prominent detractor as "wishy-washy" and deficient in the "" and raw blue-collar of their debut Jackson Square (2008). Frontman Max Kerman addressed these points in a 2016 interview, defending the evolution as a response to new influences like and a deliberate move toward broader appeal, while acknowledging the loss of some early supporters but emphasizing artistic growth over stylistic repetition. This shift was also faulted for overshadowing emerging Canadian acts, such as The Weeknd's that year, amid perceptions of commercialization. In June 2025, the hockey team lodged a complaint against the band for noise from a performance that allegedly disrupted players' nap time during the Stanley Cup Finals preparations, though the incident was resolved without escalation and highlighted in media as a lighthearted clash between rock and sports schedules.

References

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