With multiple JUNO Awards and over 15 years of making music, Arkells have cemented their status as Canadian rock royalty. From their early days in Hamilton, Ontario, to sold-out shows and critically acclaimed albums, Max Kerman, Mike DeAngelis, Nick Dika, Tim Oxford, and Anthony Carone have built an enduring legacy.

Kingston Live wanted to chat with Arkells before their show at Slush Puppie Place on October 24 (web link) exploring their deep rooted Kingston connection, remarkable journey, creative process, and the secrets behind their impactful showmanship.

Q: You’re coming to Slush Puppie Place in Kingston on your Big Feelings tour Oct 24, What makes Kingston a “must-stop” on your tours? Do you have any fun stories about Kingston?

A: We've been coming to Kingston since the very beginning of our career. The first show was at Clark Hall Pub. Years later, we had a beer with Paul Langlois at the Red Brick Pub, which inspired our song Relentless. Last year we played Queens Frosh and it was one of the most insane shows we've ever played. Why wouldn't we come back?

Q: From Jackson Square to Big Feelings, you’ve increased the showmanship and fanfare 10 fold, constantly evolving, what else do you have up your sleeves? What can fans expect as you continuously grow as a band?

A: We're just going to shows and taking notes, and trying to get better. Inspiration can come from so many different places. I just saw Childish Gambino perform, and there were so many memorable moments during the show. I was just taking it all in, and wondering "can Arkells do something like that?"

Q: Joel Plaskett, who’s playing November 26 at the Grand Theatre in Kingston (web link), speaks very highly of you! How does his work and charming personality inspire you?

A: His songs are all classics, to me. Even when I'm strumming my acoustic guitar on stage and swivelling my hips, I think, "This is the way Joel moves when he plays 'Happen Now'." We wrote "Something's Gotta Give" and realized it was a Joel rip-off, so we figured we should invite the man himself to play guitar and sing a verse. His new record is lovely.

Q: You’ve cameo’d in appearances with some pretty heavy hitters on stage and in collaboration with, what musical heroes have you worked with that would strike you as “Bucket List”?

A: Joel, Tegan and Sara, Lights. Wes from the Lumineers. The most surprising was getting on stage with Nickelback and doing "Hero". That was a huge song for me in grade 10.

Q: Now I know I’ve been blown away by your performances, but what can people who haven't yet experienced Arkells live expect from your show?

A: We like to think 2 hours feels like 20 minutes at an Arkells show. We expect you to sing, dance, and even have a cry. Bring the ones you love to the show. Posted: Sep 18, 2024