ARKELLS Won’t Take “Hand Me Downs” From FRANK TURNER

Arkells have just released their video of “Hand Me Downs”, ahead of their Euro/UK tour, which kicks off tonight in Cologne.

This spring, the band broke from recording their new release Rally Cry, to head to the UK for a month-long tour with Frank Turner, knowing that they had to return and finish the album. “Every night we got to watch Frank Turner and The Sleeping Souls create these collective moments of unity with the crowds” reflects frontman Max Kerman. “These sing-a-longs at these shows are kind of stunning – so much joy, so much heart. At the time I was listening to a lot of Joe Strummer, and became somewhat obsessed with the song Johnny Appleseed. The alchemy of watching Frank every night; and listening to Joe helped inform the beginnings of Hand Me Downs.We recorded a quick acoustic demo, and then as soon as we got home we hit the studio.”

Frank’s contribution came when the band had him come by the studio when he was touring through Toronto in September. “It only made sense to cut another version with him singing. He’s a gamer, of course: he came in a little hungover, but ready to run takes. I love this version of the tune. His sense of work ethic and commitment to the craft has been a guiding light for me. Stoked to play this one live. It opens the record, but I think it’ll close the set.”

Tour Dates:

11/16 – Cologne – Luxor
11/17 – Berlin – BiNuu
11/18 – Hamburg – Knust
11/21 – Bristol – The Fleece
11/22 – Manchester – Club Academy
11/23 – London – Heaven
11/25 – Glasgow – King Tuts
11/27 – Leeds – Belgrave Music Hall
11/28 – Birmingham – Hare & Hounds
11/29 – Brighton – Green Door Store