Arkells Win Four Hamilton Music Awards

Like the Prometheus, the mythological Greek character, or R. Kelly, who still returns to the 'hood to get his hair braided, the Arkells are prodigal sons. Well, at least to Hamilton, Ont.

In 2009, they dominated radio airwaves and toured the country in support of last year's Jackson Square, an album named after a central Hamilton mall. They've returned to their old stomping grounds as decorated road warriors to conclude the year, picking up four 2009 Hamilton Music Awards in the process.

Jackson Square was chosen as the city's record of the year, and it also took the title of the city's top alternative/indie release. Arkells singer Max Kerman was chosen as vocalist of the year, while the band collectively took home a Hammy for their songwriting credits, too.

Kerman's grateful for the city — who largely nourished the band's growth from McMaster mess halls to the red carpet.

"Our name comes from Arkell Street in Westdale and our record's named after Jackson Square at the centre of the city, " he told the Hamilton Spectator. "So we're all real proud to be able to call this our home."

The record of the year honour was presented to the band by Hamilton mayor Fred Eisenberger and former Canadian Idol winner Brian Melo.

Alexisonfire were also big winners. Old Crows/Young Cardinals took home the people's choice or record of the year award, and the band were also named the year's top emo/screamo act.

John Ellison, the Hamilton-area musician who wrote "Some Kind Of Wonderful" was given with a lifetime achievement award. Luke Doucet was christened the city's guitar hero, while the Junior Boys Begone Dull Care was Hamilton's top electronic release.

Here is a selected list of Hammy winners (the full list is available here):

ArcelorMittal Dofasco Lifetime Achievement Award: John Ellison
Record Of The Year: Arkells — Jackson Square
Hamilton Spectator New Artist/Group Of The Year: Pumps
Alternative/Indie Record Of The Year: Arkells — Jackson Square
Rock Recording Of The Year: Perennials — Aliensphere
Emo/Screamo Recording Of The Year: Alexisonfire — Old Crows/Young Cardinals
Pop/Rock Recording Of The Year: Marcio Novelli — Break Me
Rap / Hip Hop Recording Of The Year: Lee Reed — Introductory Offer
Electronic Recording Of The Year: Junior Boys — Begone Dull Care
Songwriter Of The Year: Arkells — Jackson Square
Canadian Recording Of The Year By Peoples Choice: Alexisonfire — Old Crows/Young Cardinals