Arts & Culture

Photo Courtesy arkellsmusic.com

Joe Biz - Arkells Celebrate 20 Years

Published 2:12 PDT, Thu May 21, 2026

Joe Biz

Arkells Celebrate 20 Years

Formed twenty years ago, Arkells have grown from campus favourites into one of Canada’s most celebrated modern rock bands.

Known for their anthemic sound, energetic live shows and deeply Canadian identity, the group has spent nearly two decades building a reputation as both chart-toppers and tireless road warriors.

The band’s original lineup came together through the local Hamilton music scene, with frontman Max Kerman joined by guitarist Mike DeAngelis, bassist Nick Dika, keyboardist Anthony Carone and drummer Tim Oxford.

Drawing influence from classic rock, soul and indie music, Arkells quickly earned attention for songs that blended arena-ready hooks with sharply observed lyrics about politics, relationships and everyday life. Their breakthrough arrived with the 2008 album Jackson Square, named after the downtown Hamilton, Ontario landmark near where the band formed. The much-heralded record introduced audiences to the group’s signature style: big choruses, emotionally direct songwriting and a sense of hometown pride that would become integral to their Canadian identity.

Also, an important factor was established – that being the identification of the emerging band. They are known as ‘Arkells’, not ‘The Arkells’. “Using ‘the Arkells’ in a sentence is totally fine,” admits lead singer Max Kerman, who offers the caveat, “but on advertising material it means the promoter has not done his homework; hasn’t looked at the contract.”

Since their breakout in 2006, tracks like Oh, the Boss Is Coming! helped the band gain national radio play and laid the groundwork for a steady rise across Canada’s music landscape.

Over the years, Arkells evolved from a promising indie act into one of the country’s most dependable and beloved live attractions. Albums including Michigan Left, High Noon, and Morning Report expanded their audience and demonstrated the band’s ability to move comfortably be- tween rock, pop, and soul influences with- out losing their core sound. Songs such as Leather Jacket, Ride, and Knocking at the Door became staples on both Canadian radio and music festivals nationwide.

A major part of Arkells’ story is their relationship with live audiences. To that end, the band built its following through relentless touring, playing everything from small clubs to major festivals be- fore eventually headlining arenas and outdoor events across the country. Their concerts developed a reputation for high energy and crowd participation, helping turn casual listeners into loyal fans.

Even as streaming transformed the music industry, Arkells continued to thrive by emphasizing community and connection. That connection has also extended beyond music. Throughout their career, the band has been out- spoken about civic engagement, mental health awareness and supporting local communities. Max Kerman has become known as one of Canada’s most thoughtful and articulate music frontmen, often speaking publicly about culture, sports and politics along- side the band’s work.

Critically and commercially, Arkells have enjoyed sustained success at the Juno Awards, Canada’s highest-profile music honours. The band has collected multiple Junos over the years, including recognition for Group of the Year and Rock Album of the Year. Their consistent presence at the awards ceremony has reflected both their popularity and speaks to their staying power in an industry where trends can shift quickly.

Few Canadian rock bands of their generation have matched their ability to remain relevant while continuing to grow their audience. The group’s appeal lies partly in how distinctly Canadian they feel without limiting themselves to a national audience. Their music references hometowns, hockey arenas and shared cultural experiences, utilizing themes such as resilience, friendship, ambition and belonging to Canada. That balance has allowed them to carve out their unique place in our country’s musical identity.

Now, 20 years after first coming together in Hamilton, Ontario, Arkells remain one of Canada’s defining rock bands. They have navigated myriad changes in the music business, evolving tastes and the challenges of longevity while maintaining a close connection with their fanbase.

Through it all, they have stayed committed to the same qualities that launched them in the beginning: honest songwriting, passionate performances and a belief in the power of community. And while life around them may have changed over the years, they have not.

“The first record came out in 2008, so we’re now nine records in but I still feel 23 years old,” says Max Kerman. “Maybe it’s because I’m stunted in my development as we started right after university. “We played through- out university and then got signed just as we were finishing. “But despite being twenty years in, I still feel we have that youthful spirit”.