Arkells Light up Bluewater Borderfest

Bluewater Borderfest embarked on it’s second year with 3 nights of stellar entertainment in Sarnia’s Centennial Park. Thursday’s country lineup featuring Corey James Mitchell Band, Drew Jacobs and Headliner Drake White which drew a crowd of about 1,250 to the festival grounds. Friday night’s classic rock night saw the crowds grow to 2,600 with The Guess Who and Honeymoon Suite taking the stage. Closing out the festivals very successful 3 day run was the new rock night featuring Dear Rouge, Matt Mays and Headliners the Arkells. Saturday night had the largest crowd of the weekend with 3,649 in attendance.

I was lucky enough to catch the rock night and the much anticipated return of the Matt Mays and Arkells line up we saw hit London Ontario just last year.

Matt Mays took the stage and damn did he ever sound good and really set the tone for the rest of the night to unfold. Matt delivered a full set of favourites in the most incredible fashion, showcasing songs such as Cocaine Cowgirl, Take it on Faith and my personal favourite City of Lakes.

Next up was the main event. And let me tell you this Juno award winning band is no stranger to putting on one hell of an entertaining show. I am always so blown away each and every time I see the Arkells because not only does the talent just ooze from this band but their passion and love for music and what they do shines through every time they take the stage. We all know Max’s 3 rules. 1. We sing 2. We dance and 3. We look after each other. Even only being in the photo pit for 3 songs I’ve had these 3 rules imbedded in my mind and let me tell you it is seriously difficult to sing, dance and take photos but I sure as hell did it and did it with one giant smile on my face. It’s honestly impossible to not enjoy every moment of watching this band on stage. From Max’s dance moves, to Anthony rocking out on the keys, to the no-denominational gospel choir aka the crowd killin’ harmonies in the front row, to pulling up a guest guitarist from the crowd. What’s not to love. Go see this band. You wont be disappointed.

Can’t wait to see what the folks at Bluewater Borderfest have in-store for year 3, I absolutely loved seeing this festival grow since last year. I have no doubt that each year will only get bigger, better and brighter! Well done folks! Another great festival on the books for 2018. See you in 2019.