Nine-time JUNO Award winners Arkells are back with a surprise new single, “Handshake Thugs,” marking their first new music since the release of their latest album, Between Us, earlier this spring.
The politically charged track takes aim at those in positions of power who create division while protecting their own interests. Arriving on November 3, 2026, to coincide with U.S. midterm Election Day, “Handshake Thugs” continues the themes of connection, accountability, and modern life explored throughout Between Us.
Arkells Handshake Thugs: A Powerful Message About Inequality
Featuring the No. 1 singles “Next Summer” and “Money,” Between Us explores the noise of modern life and the search for meaning in an increasingly divided world.
Earlier this year, Arkells teamed up with Poolside for the hypnotic, synth-heavy single “What’s On Your Mind,” showcasing the band’s dance-inspired sound ahead of Between Us. Revisit Canadian Beats’ coverage of “What’s On Your Mind” featuring Poolside for more on the collaboration.
“Handshake Thugs” carries those ideas forward with a direct message about inequality, leadership, and the people who hold power.
Arkells wrote the song in early September before heading into the studio a few weeks later with producer Gus van Go. Eager to bring the track to audiences, the band immediately introduced it into their live performances during their fall UK tour.
Frontman Max Kerman explains the inspiration behind the release:
“We tend to think of thugs as people who steal, cause havoc, and make our lives less safe. But these are largely imagined boogie men. The real thugs sit at the top, make deals for themselves, and eat first, before everyone else. Handshake Thugs is a song for the 99%, inspired by the 1%.”
The release adds another chapter to Arkells’ ongoing musical evolution, blending their signature energy with pointed social commentary.
Arkells Bring Their Between Us City Takeover Tour Across Canada
As Arkells continue their 2026 global touring cycle, the Hamilton-based band is returning to Canada for another series of intimate Between Us City Takeover performances.
The unique concert format brings the band to three different local venues over three nights in each city, giving fans the opportunity to experience Arkells in smaller, more personal settings.
Following sold-out City Takeovers in Toronto, Vancouver, Calgary, and Edmonton, the tour continues through Saskatoon, Winnipeg, and Ottawa this November.
The band will then close out 2026 with their holiday Sleigh the Night performances in Niagara Falls and St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador.
Arkells are no strangers to delivering unforgettable live performances. In June 2025, the band brought their infectious energy to Edmonton for the NHL Festival at the Finals, performing ahead of Game 1 of the Stanley Cup Final. Revisit the night through Canadian Beats’ coverage of Arkells at the NHL Festival at the Finals, featuring photos by Rich Moreland.
Arkells 2026 Canadian Tour Dates
Between Us City Takeover Dates
- November 5 – Saskatoon, SK – Amigos Cantina (SOLD OUT)
- November 6 – Saskatoon, SK – Capitol Music Club (SOLD OUT)
- November 7 – Saskatoon, SK – Coors Event Centre (SOLD OUT)
- November 10 – Winnipeg, MB – Side Stage (SOLD OUT)
- November 11 – Winnipeg, MB – The Park Theatre (SOLD OUT)
- November 12 – Winnipeg, MB – Burton Cummings Theatre
- November 25 – Ottawa, ON – The 27 Club (SOLD OUT)
- November 26 – Ottawa, ON – The Bronson Centre (SOLD OUT)
- November 27 – Ottawa, ON – HISTORY Ottawa (SOLD OUT)
Sleigh the Night Holiday Shows
- December 17 – Niagara Falls, ON – OLG Stage at Fallsview Casino
- December 18 – St. John’s, NL – JAG Soundhouse (SOLD OUT)
- December 19 – St. John’s, NL – JAG Soundhouse (SOLD OUT)
About Canadian Rock Band Arkells
Known for their electrifying live performances and genre-blending sound, Arkells have become one of Canada’s most celebrated rock bands.
With nine JUNO Awards and a record-setting history in the Group of the Year category, the band has built a reputation for bringing audiences together through music.
Their reach extends far beyond Canadian radio, with appearances at major festivals including Coachella and Bonnaroo, alongside music featured in sports broadcasts, video games, and other corners of popular culture.
Their latest album, Between Us, was produced by John Congleton, whose credits include St. Vincent, Death Cab for Cutie, and Wallows. Across 11 tracks, Arkells continue exploring new musical territory while maintaining the emotional connection and infectious energy that have defined their career.
With “Handshake Thugs” now available and more Canadian shows ahead, Arkells are showing no signs of slowing down.
