ARKELLS ANNOUNCE NEW ALBUM BETWEEN US OUT APRIL 17

Key Takeaways

• New album "Between Us" drops April 17, 2026
• Produced by Grammy winner John Congleton in Los Angeles
• Lead single "Next Summer" released with performance video
• Features collaborations with GROUPLOVE, Poolside, Portugal. The Man
• Pre‑order includes limited grass‑green vinyl signed edition

Summary

Arkells, nine‑time Juno winners, announced their new album *Between Us* for an April 17, 2026 release via Universal Music Canada and Virgin Music Group. The record was produced in Los Angeles by Grammy‑winner John Congleton and showcases a more atmospheric, hook‑driven sound. Lead single “Next Summer” debuted alongside an illusory performance video and a winter‑time pop‑up at Toronto’s Big Chill ice‑cream shop. The 11‑track album features collaborations with GROUPLOVE, Poolside and Portugal. The Man, and is available for pre‑order on vinyl, CD and a signed grass‑green vinyl edition.

Pulse Analysis

Canadian rock outfit Arkells, fresh off a string of Juno victories, is poised to broaden its sonic palette with the upcoming album *Between Us*, slated for April 17, 2026. The record was crafted in Los Angeles under the guidance of Grammy‑winning producer John Congleton, whose work with St. Vincent and Death Cab for Cutie hints at a more atmospheric, hook‑driven direction. By pairing their trademark anthemic choruses with Congleton’s polished production, Arkells aim to capture both longtime fans and a broader indie‑rock audience, signaling a strategic evolution in their catalogue.

The campaign kicked off with the release of “Next Summer,” a breezy single that blends The Killers‑style urgency with Gaslight Anthem‑type sing‑along flair. Frontman Max Kerman frames the track as a meditation on future uncertainty, a theme reinforced by an illusory performance video that debuted alongside a pop‑up concert at Toronto’s Big Chill ice‑cream shop. Early‑access fans received a private preview, turning a winter night into a summer‑themed experience. Guest appearances from Portugal. The Man, GROUPLOVE and Poolside on other album cuts further diversify the record’s palette, widening its cross‑genre appeal.

Pre‑order options include a limited grass‑green vinyl edition signed by the band, a nod to collectors and the group’s hometown roots in Hamilton. By aligning with Universal Music Canada and Virgin Music Group, Arkells secure robust distribution across physical and streaming platforms, positioning *Between Us* for strong chart debuts in both Canada and the U.S. The strategic rollout—single releases, visual content, and experiential marketing—mirrors industry best practices for mid‑career acts seeking renewed relevance. If the album’s blend of radio‑friendly hooks and collaborative experimentation resonates, Arkells could translate critical acclaim into higher streaming numbers and expanded tour opportunities.