SPILL ALBUM REVIEW: ARKELLS – RALLY CRY

Arkells
Rally Cry
Universal Music

The newest release from nationally renowned Hamilton rockers Arkells sees them embracing their newfound fame in a big way. Piano-driven grooves dominate Rally Cry, giving the album a very humble sound that is full of heart. This is matched lyrically as well, as the songs reflect on youthful times past and the origins of Arkells’ passion. With the exception of a couple songs like “Hand Me Downs”, Rally Cry is very piano-driven and pop-based; presumably, this is to capitalize off the success of Arkells’ previous hits such as “Leather Jacket” and “My Heart’s Always Yours”. However, the sound of Rally Cry is not at all sterile or manufactured. Arkells manages to keep their record sounding accessible, while including several aspects in their music to keep the driving, tough-as-nails feel that long-time fans might be more keen to hearing. This includes but isn’t limited to the guitars, the horn section parts that absolutely dominate through the entire album, and finally, the pure booming power of Max Kerman’s vocals. All of these elements come together in an assertive record that is still full of personality and accessibility that shows that Arkells is a band that is here to stay.

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