Wanting to fit in is overrated, but that doesn't make it any less a rite of passage. In the new video for "Private School," from their upcoming album Morning Report, JUNO Award-winning band Arkells pull the sheet off the preening characters of the popular set. Frontman Max Kerman stumbles around a photoshoot with a bunch of kitted out private school kids, and gets some help from 'crew members' including fellow Canadian musicians Lights, Tokyo Police Club's Dave Monks, and Sum 41's Steve Jocz (who also directed this clip). It's like watching a behind-the-scenes glimpse at the making of Gossip Girl.
It all seems fun and games, but the idea from the song came from something much deeper. Kerman explains:
There's an old line I've always loved: He was born on third base and thought he hit a triple.
I would find myself at fancy events with impressive people who were quite obviously born into a very good situation. During our conversations, they kept saying things to suggest they weren’t quite aware of the role their good luck and fortune played in getting them to these fancy events. There was a lot of comedy in their lack of self awareness.
I come from a long line of public school teachers and I’m a proud product of the public school system. If private school is an indication of status, I’m happy to take a warm hearted piss on it.
Morning Report is out on August 5.