Disco Loadout (Volume 1)": A Groovy Ride Through Time with Arkells

Disco Loadout is officially here, time to strap on your dancing shoes and immerse yourself in the infectious beats and electrifying covers brought to life by none other than Arkells. If you've ever found yourself swaying to the rhythm of their live performances, then you're already well acquainted with their knack for infusing new life into beloved classics. As someone who's witnessed the Hamilton boys take the stage three times, soon to be four, and even had the pleasure of meeting the lead singer - yep Mr max Kerman himself! I can attest that Arkells never fails to deliver a musical experience that's both exhilarating and unforgettable.

With "Disco Loadout," Arkells has curated a treasure trove of classics spanning genres and generations. The 11-song tracklist reads like a who's who of music royalty, featuring iconic hits from Robyn, the Jackson 5, Hall & Oates, Harry Styles, Peter Gabriel, Dolly Parton, Whitney Houston, Bruce Springsteen, Huey Lewis and the News, and ABBA. And this isn't their first rodeo with covers; they've flexed their musical muscles with Motown classics on a previous 7" single release

The concept behind Disco Loadout is as intriguing as it is relatable. A "disco loadout" is a term that resonates deeply within the music industry—a humbling act where a band finds themselves hastily packing up their gear after an early show to make way for a later performance, typically by a cover band catering to the crowd's familiar favorites. Arkells, being no strangers to performing covers, have taken this concept and transformed it into a celebration of musical diversity and homage to the songs that have left an indelible mark on them.

Track by Track Journey

1: Dancing On My Own - Kicking off the album with a burst of energy, Arkells breathes new life into Robyn's classic hit. "Dancing On My Own" becomes an instant favorite, with its infectious rhythm and heartfelt vocals transporting listeners to the dance floor.

2: I Want You Back:

Max's rendition of the Jackson 5's timeless anthem is nothing short of electrifying. The band's unique spin injects a fresh wave of enthusiasm into this already iconic track, making it an absolute standout.

3: You Make My Dreams:

Hall & Oates' masterpiece gets the Arkells treatment, turning it into a euphoric dance anthem. With its irresistible groove and infectious melody, "You Make My Dreams" becomes a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

4: As It Was:

A familiar tune for those who've caught Arkells live, "As It Was" maintains its charm on this album. The band's dynamic performance adds new layers of depth to this already captivating track.

5: Sledgehammer:

now this is where Mike DeAngelis takes the spotlight with his powerhouse vocals on Peter Gabriel's "Sledgehammer". This rendition is a testament to the band's versatility, as they effortlessly tackle the song's intricate layers with finesse.

06: Gimme! Gimme! Gimme!:

A staple of their live performances, Arkells' cover of ABBA's classic is a disco-infused delight. The infectious energy and vibrant instrumentation make it impossible not to hit the dance floor.

07: 9 to 5:

Dolly Parton's anthem gets an Arkells treatment with sheer brilliance. "9 to 5" becomes a high-octane celebration of empowerment, showcasing the band's knack for breathing new life into timeless classics.

08: I Wanna Dance With Somebody:

Whitney Houston's chart-topper gets a dazzling makeover courtesy of Arkells. The band's infectious enthusiasm and soaring vocals make this rendition an absolute joy to listen to.

09: Dancing in the Dark:

A surprise addition to the lineup, Arkells tackles Bruce Springsteen's classic with gusto. "Dancing in the Dark" becomes a poignant tribute, brimming with raw emotion and infectious energy.

10: The Power Of Love:

Another highlight of the album, Arkells' rendition of Huey Lewis and the News' hit is an absolute triumph. The band's infectious energy and dynamic performance elevate this track to new heights of euphoria.

11: Dancing Queen:

Closing out the album with a bang, Arkells delivers a stunning rendition of ABBA's "Dancing Queen". With its infectious groove and shimmering melodies, this track is guaranteed to leave listeners craving more.

Conclusion:

As the final notes of "Dancing Queen" fade into the ether, one thing becomes abundantly clear: Arkells not only pay homage to the artists who have inspired them but also carve out their own space within the musical landscape. As the album art hints at the possibility of future volumes, one can't help but eagerly anticipate what other gems Arkells have in store. But for now, let's bask in the groove of Volume 1, savoring each track as a testament to the enduring power of music to uplift, inspire, and unite.