Friday, June 1, 2012

Arkellin' it!

Arkells frontman Max Kerman and guitarist Mike DeAngelis swooped in to Zulu Records on West 4th this evening to play a half-hour set before heading off to their sold-out show at the Vogue.

The two-fifths of this year's Group of the Year Juno winners (not to mention 2010 Juno New Group of the Year honourees) held the modest gathering in thrall. Max charmed the audience with his witty, adept banter as the pair impressed with its tight yet flexible vocal harmonies and bright acoustic guitar interplay.

A few songs in, Mike and Max played their band's current CBC Radio 3 spin from last year's sophomore release, Michigan Left, entitled "Kiss Cam":


They wrapped the set with the last single from their 2008 debut full length, Jackson Square. While playing "John Lennon", Max broke in on numerous occasions to explain the song's various inspirations. The result is humorously epic:


It is rare that a short-rostered acoustic performance can translate a band's live show so well. So it demonstrates just how the Arkells' constant touring has honed a confidence that electrifies the room - despite the lack of electricity.

It's easy to see why the Junos saw fit to recognize Arkells. Twice.

Nicely done, boys. Nicely done.

And as if that wasn't enough, the Arkells' Daytrotter session was just posted yesterday. You're welcome.

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