By Scott Roos
Photos by Tracy Creighton (Copperblue Photography and Design)
On Halloween night, Saskatoon came alive with the vibrant energy of the Juno award winning Arkells, who brought their unique brand of rock and roll to the SaskTel Centre, supported by the sunny sounds of Poolside. This concert was more than just a night of music; it was a celebration of community, creativity, and connection, highlighted by the engaging interactions between the band and their audience.
Opening the night was Poolside, a band known for their catchy “daytime disco” sound. Their music seamlessly blends elements of pop and electronic, making it impossible not to feel uplifted. As they took the stage, dressed as Ghostbusters, they set a playful tone for the evening.
Their set began with a series of dreamy tracks that had the crowd swaying and tapping their feet. Despite likely not being familiar with the specific titles, the infectious rhythms and melodies were enough to draw everyone in. Saxophonist Casey Butler, decked out as the Stay-Puft Marshmallow Man, delivered a few stunning sax solos—a highlight that left the crowd cheering.
A standout moment came when they performed a beautifully reimagined cover of Neil Young’s “Harvest Moon.” This tribute to their “favourite Canadian” resonated deeply with the audience, showcasing Poolside’s ability to transform a classic into something fresh and vibrant. They closed their set with their unique rendition of the "Ghostbusters" theme song, ensuring that the audience was not only entertained but also ready for the night ahead.
As the lights dimmed and the crowd's excitement reached a fever pitch, Arkells took the stage. The energy intensified as Arkells launched into their first song, showcasing their signature blend of rock, pop, and anthemic choruses. The Northern Soul Horns joined them on stage, adding a brass-heavy sound that elevated the performance to new heights. The seamless integration of the horns into the set created a dynamic and visually captivating experience, as the stage felt alive with movement and sound.
Dressed in whimsical Parisian costumes—think mimes, waiters, and chefs—the band playfully acknowledged their location by referencing Saskatoon as the “Paris of the Prairies.” The crowd's immediate rebuttal, declaring a resounding “not really,” only fueled the banter between the band and the audience, setting the tone for a night rich in interaction.
The Arkells have always been known for their connection with fans, and this concert was no exception. When the tour began, they'd set up a toll-free request line, allowing fans to call in their song requests prior to each show. One of the most memorable segments of the night occurred when lead vocalist Max Kerman and guitarist Mike DeAngelis moved to the back of the room, to a small payphone set up on a low stage near the soundboard, for an acoustic performance surrounded by the crowd.
They started with a bit of “Leather Jacket,” inviting a fan dressed as a payphone to join them on stage. The fan held a speech bubble quoting the lyrics, “Hang tight, I can drive you home” on one side, and “Who the fuck uses a payphone” on the other, eliciting laughter and cheers from the crowd. This playful exchange perfectly encapsulated the spirit of the night, where music, humor, and community intertwined seamlessly. Next, they performed “On Paper” for a fan dressed as looseleaf, adding to the lighthearted atmosphere.
One particularly touching request came from Kristina, who expressed that “Past Life” had become her anthem after relocating to Saskatoon from the war in Ukraine. Kristina joined them on the small stage, singing alongside the band, tears in her eyes as the crowd rallied behind her in support. This emotional moment highlighted the deep connections formed through music, leaving a lasting impression on everyone present.
Kerman handed over his ‘Emily in Paris’ camera to a member of the audience, inviting them to document the evening, a move that fostered a sense of intimacy and shared experience. This moment exemplified Arkells' approach to concerts—creating a space where fans feel like they are part of something bigger.
The concert reached its peak during “Dance With You,” where Kerman announced that they were about to kick off “the Halloween dance party of the century.” He encouraged the crowd to lift each other onto their shoulders, creating a wave of excitement that swept through the venue as he carried a fan's sign around the floor and sang to a baby dressed as Nemo.
As a surprise twist, Arkells performed a cover of Dolly Parton's "9 to 5," playfully referencing the question, “WWYD—what would Dolly do?” This lighthearted moment resonated with the audience, who embraced the unexpected addition to the setlist.
The encore began with a renewed sense of energy, as Kerman encouraged the audience, “I like how you guys were jumping around". His playful challenge to the audience to get rowdy only heightened the excitement as the band dove into their final songs. The crowd sang along with abandon, fully immersed in the experience.
Throughout the evening, Arkells demonstrated their knack for making every fan feel special, with local references, community engagement, and heartfelt interactions. The band’s ability to connect with their audience went beyond the music, creating an atmosphere where everyone felt valued.
As the concert came to a close, it was evident that the night was more than just a performance; it was a celebration of togetherness, joy, and shared experiences. The combination of Poolside's relaxed vibe and Arkells' electrifying energy left a lasting impression, making for a memorable Halloween night in Saskatoon. Fans left the venue with smiles on their faces, knowing they had been part of something truly special—an experience that would resonate long after the music stopped playing.
