Max Kerman, the charismatic lead singer of Arkells, shares insights on their journey to becoming a household name in Canada. He discusses their recent album 'Laundry Pile' and the unexpected generational impact of their music. Kerman humorously touches on creative processes behind their music videos, emphasizes authenticity in today's digital landscape, and reflects on the unpredictability of live performances, including their unforgettable Grey Cup halftime show. Fans can look forward to their tour and deeper emotional connections through their music.
The Arkells have successfully evolved their music and brand, recently winning their sixth Juno award and appealing across generations in Canada.
Their creative process for the album 'Laundry Pile' involved hands-on collaboration with core members, enhancing authenticity and musical exploration.
By engaging with sports and media, the Arkells expand their audience reach, utilizing diverse platforms to connect with new fans beyond traditional music channels.
Deep dives
Running with Purpose
The experience of running serves as a profound metaphor for facing challenges, especially exemplified by Anne, who embraces running to raise awareness for cancer research despite battling stage four cancer herself. Through participating in events like the Boston Marathon, she aims to inspire others to thrive in life while navigating illness. She highlights the impact of supporting charitable organizations like the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, which provides critical resources for cancer patients. Ultimately, her journey symbolizes resilience and the power of community support in the face of adversity.
The Arkells' Continued Success
The Arkells, a prominent Canadian band, have successfully transitioned from past achievements to current accomplishments, releasing new music like their album 'Laundry Pile' while continuing to grow their fanbase across North America. Their ability to maintain relevance is underscored by their touring schedule and the launch of new songs that resonate with both long-time listeners and newer audiences. Additionally, their journey illustrates the complexities faced by Canadian artists in breaking into the U.S. market, often competing against both local and international acts. By focusing on authenticity and their connection with fans, they are redefining what it means to be successful in the contemporary music landscape.
Engaging Audiences Through Diverse Platforms
The Arkells leverage multiple avenues beyond traditional channels to reach a wider audience, including their involvement with sports, television, and social media. By participating in high-profile events and collaborations, they enhance their visibility and connect with diverse demographics beyond music fans. This approach highlights how artists can expand their reach and cultivate new fan bases through creative partnerships and community engagement. Ultimately, the band's strategy demonstrates the importance of embracing various platforms to share their music and message effectively.
Studio Collaboration and Artistic Growth
The band emphasizes the value of collaboration in their creative process, particularly during the recording of their new album, 'Laundry Pile.' By returning to a more hands-on approach with their core members and producing the album together, they've tapped into a deeper sense of creativity and authenticity. Working with talented individuals, like producer Derek Hoffman, adds new dimensions to their music, allowing them to explore different styles and develop their sound further. This collaborative spirit fosters an environment where ideas can flourish, leading to fresh artistic endeavors.
Overcoming Challenges in Live Performances
The Arkells reflect on the complexities of live performances, especially during COVID-19, as they navigated restrictions and the pressure to deliver exceptional shows. Their memorable halftime performance at the Grey Cup showcased their ability to adapt and creatively engage an audience in a unique setting. They tackled challenges, such as technical difficulties and rehearsals, to ensure an unforgettable experience for viewers. This resilience in the face of obstacles illustrates the band's commitment to entertaining fans while maintaining a strong focus on quality and connection.
Episode 341 – Max Kerman of Arkells is back baby! Since the last time on the show, this multi-platinum selling band has gotten even bigger (including a record 6th Group of the Year Juno award) and has become a household name across Canada. We discuss being in a band that is crossing generations, their process writing and producing records, and their many appearances in the Canadian sports scene, especially their performance at the CFL Grey Cup halftime show in 2021. Their new album, “Laundry Pile” is out now, go check it out and catch them on tour in the US and Canada this fall!
