Arkells Pay Joyous Tribute to Joel Plaskett with “Since 1980” Cover on Surprise Album Songs From The Gang

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For more than 30 years, Joel Plaskett has carved out a singular space in Canadian music—equal parts melody maker, indie-rock elder, and community builder. Whether touring coast to coast or working out of his beloved Fang Recording Studio in Dartmouth, Nova Scotia, Plaskett has fostered a sense of collaboration and creativity that’s deeply personal to the people who’ve worked with him—or simply grown up listening to his music.

To celebrate Plaskett’s 50th birthday on April 18th, more than 20 artists came together to create a surprise double album titled Songs From The Gang, pulling from across his massive catalog to reinterpret his songs with affection, energy, and originality. The project was organized entirely behind his back—an undercover love project orchestrated by longtime manager Sheri Jones and a tight-knit crew of collaborators, friends, and fans who wanted to give back to an artist who’s given so much.

Among the many heartfelt contributions is a standout track by Hamilton’s own Arkells. Their high-octane version of “Since 1980,” originally from Plaskett’s 2003 release Truthfully Truthfully, is a fitting burst of nostalgia and admiration from a band that’s long worn its musical influences proudly. But for Arkells, this wasn’t just a song they picked—it’s a song that’s become part of their personal history.

“Joel came into our lives in 2003 when we heard Truthfully Truthfully,” the band shared. “Over the years we have so many memories of screaming ‘since nineteen eighty’ whenever we see him perform live. Covering the song took no rehearsal at all. It’s in our bones.”

Their version stays true to the original’s scrappy charm while infusing it with the anthemic energy Arkells are known for. It’s bold, it’s joyful, and it perfectly captures that shared feeling so many fans have had at a Plaskett show—those moments when you’re shouting lyrics with friends, fully in the moment, connected by sound.

Songs From The Gang isn’t just a tribute album—it’s a collaborative celebration of friendship, connection, and the impact of music that feels like it was written for real people, in real places. The covers range from faithful reinterpretations to inventive reimaginings, each track offering a window into how Plaskett’s work has touched different artists over the years. There’s a spirit of play and gratitude throughout, not only for the songs themselves but for the stories, shows, and shared experiences they’ve created.

The reveal was just as thoughtful as the album itself. On the evening of April 9th, Plaskett arrived at Ditch Records in Victoria, BC, thinking he was simply meeting up with Sheri Jones before dinner. What he didn’t know was that a display of the freshly pressed vinyl was waiting for him—his entire discography reimagined and reflected back at him by friends from across the country and beyond.

Later that evening, the celebrations continued at Burning Rainbow Studio, where a small group of friends gathered for an intimate first listen. For Plaskett, it was an overwhelming and emotional moment. In a quiet video shared afterward, he reflected on the experience: “I was really moved by it — listening to all the great versions of the tunes. Thanks so much to everyone who contributed.”

Out now via turtlemusik, Songs From The Gang spans genres, generations, and geography. It’s as much a document of Canadian music as it is a birthday card in stereo. Artists poured themselves into this project not out of obligation, but out of affection for a songwriter whose work has always felt generous—songs built on honesty, heart, and the desire to connect.

Arkells’ version of “Since 1980” is more than a cover. It’s a celebration of musical kinship, the kind of gesture that doesn’t require explanation to anyone who’s ever belted out that chorus in a crowded venue. It’s about shared history, staying power, and the kind of songs that get under your skin and never leave.

And for Joel Plaskett, it’s one hell of a birthday gift.