Review Summary: Always hoped that this would happen
I have always favored artists that take a little extra time with their album release and make sure the content, although short and sweet, would all be quality and keep you coming back to them for the time you have to wait for the proceeding album(sigh). This is exactly the case in which I refer to with the Arkell’s “High Noon.” Following up their second LP, “Michigan Left” an album that boasted a fresh new sound that featured catchy hooks, energetic vocals, and emotional storytelling. “High Noon” seemed like the next logical step. This album is relentless in its power and spirit. It throws a listener into fun, energetic arena of 80’s influences, anthemic choruses, and tasteful instrumental work.
“Fake Money” unfortunately is one of the weakest songs on the album. It starts off sounding disorganized and sloppy. However right when you think it is a lackluster attempt at an opener. The title is uttered, “Ya it’s nothing but Fake Money” and the guitar line breathes life into the song and drives the song to an enjoyable experience. (3/5)
“Come to Light” opens with a bass line straight out of an "LCD Soundsystem" tune and chugs along in the background creating a great fun, catchy atmosphere. It delivers on all fronts. the verses utilize the driving bass line and vocalists Max Kerman’s “talk singing” I like to call it. The choruses are incredibly catchy and introduces one of the highlights of the album, Keyboardist Anthony Carone, who gives the chorus an extra punch. (5/5)
“Cynical Bastards” is one of the best on the album. Carone is really left to shine in this song, producing a catchy hook in the opening line following by a drop that packs a punch. Max Kerman’s “talk singing” makes a welcome return while Carone riffs around on the piano and keeps the verses lighthearted enough to allow an explosion of energy on the choruses, having you want to get up on your feet and sing along. (5/5)
“11:11” introduces a more laid back feel, which is welcomed after two high energy tunes. It begins with some simple picking guitars, subtle synths and xylophone, which sounds a little off but it works incredibly well. Then as the pre-chorus chimes in with its growing bass and kick drum and you know you are in for another head bobbing tune. It is one of the catchiest choruses on the album. It is fun, and will indefinitely leave you with a positive feeling. it is no wonder how it found radio success. (5/5)
“Never Though That This Would Happen” is an interesting song. At first listen it did not leave the impression you would hope an Arkell’s song to leave. However, after repeated listens I found myself enjoying it. It opens with an interesting synth line and it acts as the backbone for the entire song. adding in orchestral arrangements and guitar work mixed in with Max Kerman’s great vocals, it builds to a nice climax that allows a “careless” feeling. (4/5)
“Dirty Blonde” turns up the bpm and energy of the album once again opening with fast paced drums, guitar and synth you could hear out of a Duran Duran song. it keeps the tone uplifting and undoubtedly have you bobbing your head to the chorus. unsure whether this song bears a connection to the “Dirty Blonde” mentioned in the bridge of “11:11.” Regardless, it’s a great song to continue the album with. (4/5)
“What Are You Holding On To?” opens with a heavy guitar power chord and driving drums as if to pay homage to “The Black Keys” or “Jet.” it is followed by a very fun swing-blues sounding song with an Arkell’s flair. (4/5)
“Hey Kids!” is another song in which Carone shines once again. It shows off his ability in his introduction of structured piano chaos mixed in with Kerman’s vocals while going into one of the most unique pre-choruses on the album. A Motown influenced riff followed by rolling snares and a growing siren all while it crescendos into a simple but effective chorus. Fun song with bit of a live jam feel to it. (4/5)
“Leather Jacket” is the most successful song on this album. It is a brilliant song. It utilizes every strength of the group. It is epic anthem that delivers power and emotion to the listener. the guitar and drums enter with absolute presence and Kerman enters again with his “Talk singing” as if to tell a story. As soon as the pre-chorus hits you know you are in for a ride, the chorus quite possibly one of the greatest choruses I’ve ever heard. It includes soaring vocals, an infectious piano line that feels epic and leaves you wanting more. The added chorus in the last part of the song delivers on that front as well helping the song fly to even higher heights. (5/5)
“Crawling Through The Window” is a nice little break from all the pandemonium of the rest of the album. Although one of the weaker songs on the album, it felt welcome at the same time. Giving you a chill experience that takes you back to their Jackson Square sound. It’s a nice intermission at the end (3/5)
“Systematic” felt like the most experimental song of the album. Featuring use of echoing guitars, heavy orchestral use. It is not what you would call an excellent closer to the album however as a stand alone song it is great. it makes more use of the backup singers in the chorus and it adds a nice touch. (4/5)
If you are looking for some sort of profound, deep experience you are probably looking in the wrong spot. Arkell’s “High Noon” delivers as being a fun, energetic album that will make will have you exiting it with a positive feeling. It is not hard to see how this song has been one of the Arkell’s greatest commercial successes. Hoping for more like it in the future.
