I did not know a ton about The Arkells, or their lead singer Max Kerman before seeing them at Belleville’s Empire Rockfest in 2018.
We played their music here at Rock 107 and Mix 97. A lot.
What I had heard from anyone who saw them live was that they were one of the most entertaining acts you can see.
Boy, am I glad I took advice and saw them live.
Not only is the band incredibly entertaining, there is a feeling of joy and happiness at their show that I have not felt often in my life.
You do not need to be well versed in their music to take part in that joy.
Quinte News chatted with Max Kerman ahead of their return to Rockfest later this month.
Audio PlayerAudio Player“One of the most satisfying things I hear is people who come to an Arkells show, who were maybe dragged by a friend, who don’t really know any of the songs, and they leave going – that was the best show I’ve seen all year. That is always the goal.”
“One of the reasons why there continues to be youthful enthusiasm for our band, within the band, is because after every show we’re asking ourselves what worked, what didn’t work, what’s feeling a little dusty, what needs to be freshened up?”
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On Friday in Belleville and on Sunday in Wellington, Kerman will also be making public appearances, signing copies of his first book “Try Hard.”
Audio Player“If there’s one thing I’m good at, it’s soliciting advice. I have no problem with asking anybody and everybody for their opinion, or for help. I read a bunch of books about writing and I got a chance to work with an editor at Penguin Random House, who was incredibly helpful. I have some friends that are writers who gave me suggestions.”
Kerman says the band is also currently working on a new album they intend to drop in the fall or spring of next year.
He says it is incredible they have been putting out music for 17 years.
Audio Player“Really hard to predict the success of something. The context around the artist is always changing. It’s a lot different being a 22-year-old putting out a new album in 2008, than being a 38-year-old putting out their 10th album in 2025 or 2026.”
His full interview with Quinte News is below.
Audio PlayerCLICK HERE to buy tickets for The Arkells, Lights, and the Jake Clemons Band
CLICK HERE to buy tickets for David Wilcox, Trooper, and Luscious.
