High Noon cover

High Noon

Arkells · 2014

41 min · 11 tracks · alternative rock

A vibrant mix of indie rock energy and lyrical introspection, showcasing the band's eclectic roots and catchy hooks.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Come to Light — This track stands out for its anthemic chorus and uplifting message, encapsulating the album's overall themes of hope and resilience.
  • →
    Cynical Bastards — With sharp lyrics addressing social disillusionment, this song showcases the band's ability to blend catchy melodies with meaningful commentary.
  • →
    Hey Kids! — This energetic track captures youthful exuberance, making it a quintessential anthem for embracing life's adventures and challenges.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

50 /100
Foothills
Higher than 23% of albums we've rated

The album blends energetic indie rock with introspective lyrics, though it doesn't fully stand out in its genre.

What we noticed

  • The first three tracks establish a high-energy tempo, while the fourth track introduces a more reflective tone with its slower pace.
  • Several songs feature layered vocal harmonies that create a rich texture, particularly in the choruses.
Composition 25% of the score
6/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
7/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
6/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
6/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
5/10

running order, pacing, length

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • catchy hooks for sing-alongs
  • lyrical introspection with energy
  • short tracks for quick enjoyment
  • vibrant background for socializing
  • playful irreverence throughout

Maybe skip if you

  • slow, lengthy listening sessions
  • deeply introspective and somber themes

Where this album fits

Career context
Released on January 1, 2014, 'High Noon' marked Arkells' third studio album, following their breakthrough record 'Michigan Left' in 2011. At this point in their career, the band was solidifying their reputation in the Canadian music scene, building on previous successes while expanding their sound.
Stylistic neighbors
The Strumbellas· Said the Whale· Hey Rosetta!

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 Fake Money 3:31
  • 2 Come to Light 3:33
  • 3 Cynical Bastards 3:37
  • 4 11:11 3:40
  • 5 Never Thought That This Would Happen 4:50
  • 6 Dirty Blonde 3:33
  • 7 What Are You Holding On To? 3:40
  • 8 Hey Kids! 3:24
  • 9 Leather Jacket 3:56
  • 10 Crawling Through the Window 3:48
  • 11 Systematic 3:51

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata