Concert of the Week
Arkells, Multiple Venues, Vancouver — May 7-9
Get ready, Vancouver! The iconic Hamilton rock band Arkells is taking over your city for three unforgettable nights. From May 7 to 9, they’ll be performing in multiple venues, including The Penthouse, Hollywood Theatre, and Commodore Theatre. This city-wide takeover is in celebration of their latest album, Between Us, which frontman Max Kerman describes as “an ode to the sacred, human connection we share.” The album resonates deeply, capturing the essence of community and togetherness that the band strives to foster with their music.
In a unique twist to their concerts, Arkells will perform in venues they’ve either not played in over a decade or haven’t stepped foot in at all. This decision springs from their desire to connect with spaces that hold significance to the music community. “Playing these city takeovers allows us to introduce the new record, stretch across our entire catalogue, and create a different experience each night,” they shared on Instagram, hinting at an exciting mix of setlists and a potential treasure trove of deep cuts. Expect to hear fan favorites and maybe even that chart-topping Billboard hit, “Money,” featuring Portugal. The Man.
Following Vancouver, this energetic quintet will continue their journey with city-specific shows in Edmonton, Calgary, and Toronto, extending the celebration of their new release. Tickets are available here.
More Canadian Concerts of the Week
Karan Aujla, Scotiabank Arena, Toronto — May 9-10; Canada Life Centre, Winnipeg — May 13
On the rise in the music scene, Punjabi-Canadian superstar Karan Aujla is also making waves this week. Taking the stage at some of Canada’s premier arenas, Aujla has solidified his presence in the Punjabi music landscape with his latest album, P-Pop Culture. This record has achieved significant milestones—debuting at No. 3 on the Billboard Canadian Albums chart, it marks the highest position ever for a Punjabi-language album in Canadian history. The anticipation surrounding his performances is palpable, and fans can expect a high-energy experience. Tickets are available here.
Katie Tupper, The Mod Club, Toronto — May 7; Bar le Ritz PDB, Montreal — May 8
This week, Saskatoon’s own Katie Tupper is ready to charm audiences with her debut album, Greyhound. Her unique blend of neo-soul cuts through the noise of the everyday, and her smoky alto voice captivates listeners from the first note. While her music often delves into deeper themes, her on-stage demeanor is light-hearted and engaging, showcasing her authenticity as an artist. “Rehearsing for these shows has been a dream, and I’m really excited to bring you my best show yet,” she shared on Instagram. Tickets are available here.
Alicia Creti, The Drake Hotel Underground, Toronto — May 9
Alicia Creti is turning the music scene on its head with her soulful, R&B-infused vocals. A former finance student who took a gamble on her passion, Creti has garnered attention through her TikTok covers and now finds herself with a record deal under Atlantic Records/Warner Music Canada. Tackling themes of heartbreak and self-discovery, her rising star status is backed by an earnest connection to her audience. Prepare to be moved at her show! Tickets are available here.
Flea, The Opera House, Toronto — May 9; Théâtre Beanfield, Montreal — May 10
It’s not every day you get to see Flea, the legendary bassist of the Red Hot Chili Peppers, perform live with his jazz band. This week, he’s set to bring his eclectic sound to Southern Canada, performing songs from his debut solo record, Honora. His performance promises to be intriguing, as fans can expect a unique blend of jazz-infused melodies. With back-to-back sold-out shows on the horizon, this is a must-see for any music lover. Tickets are available here.
