GREG REESE
Arts Editor

Arnold “Arnie” Van Lambalgen II has played drums in Junior Pantherz since their inception. They began playing a straight-up, east-coast-inspired version of indie rock and have been a staple of the local music scene since they began. Most recently, they have played CFCR’s FM-Phasis fest — the first show in quite some time for the Pantherz.

The Sheaf interviewed Arnie about the foundational influence of Thrush Hermit (Joel Plaskett’s first big success) on Arnie’s love of music and on the Junior Pantherz.

The Sheaf: When and where did you first encounter Thrush Hermit?
Arnold Van Lambalgen II: I first stumbled across the band in ’95 watching MuchMusic. (Yes, they played music videos once.) My love for Canadian indie rock was at an all-time high and the band immediately and effectively satisfied my desire for great rock ‘n’ roll.

Sheaf: What is it about their particular sound that interests you?
Arnie: I loved that they weren’t afraid to mix it up. One minute they were blistering loud, the next whisper quiet. Having three unique voices in the band also stood out; it always felt like I was listening to three amazing bands in one. It still does.

Joel Plaskett, being handsome.

Sheaf: How has Joel Plaskett’s direction in music changed in your mind, or has it?
Arnie: Absolutely. There’s no question his sound has evolved and matured. But in the same breath, he’s taking more risks as a songwriter now. You have to respect him for that. I am really proud of his accomplishments.

Sheaf: So the direction is a positive one?
Arnie: To me, it’s positive. Even if some of his ideas have fallen flat to some ears, he hasn’t compromised himself musically in over 16 years of performing. Sure, he had a song in a Zellers commercial a few years back but, as a result, I discovered that they sell really good salt and vinegar chips. A win-win situation for everyone involved.

At the end of the day, his voice is still incredible and his shows sell out left and right. If you close your eyes, you can still feel the spirit of the Hermit deep inside.

Sheaf: Has Junior Pantherz been influenced by Thrush Hermit?
Arnie: Let me put it this way: without them, Terry Mattson (vocals and guitar in Junior Pantherz) and I probably wouldn’t have picked up instruments and been inspired to play music of our own. We even played four Hermit covers in our first show. We will be forever in debt.

When a band comes along and changes your life, it’s comparable to a religious experience. I hope everyone can feel like that at some point in their life.

Sheaf: I have heard them described as Canadian in sound. Do you think that is the case?
Arnie: Many of the Hermit’s songs spit out geographical shout-outs, mainly based on adventures while growing up together and the many memorable tours the band accomplished and, ultimately, survived. Plaskett has thoroughly documented his love for the prairies and Saskatchewan as well. I suggest he makes good on plans to move here one day.

Sheaf: What other bands fit in the same genre or scene as Thrush Hermit?
Arnie: A few bands that flew alongside the Hermit were Sloan, The Inbreds, Local Rabbits and The Super Friendz. They would often tour together, so if you were fans of these bands, it would feel like a super tour every time. More bang for your college buck.

At that time, Halifax (the Hermit’s home base) spawned so many great bands that it was actually dubbed the next Seattle. How amazing would that have been to be in the middle of that scene?

Arnie of the Junior Pantherz

Sheaf: Did you ever get a chance to see them play as a band?
Arnie: With a little help using false age-verification tools, I was extremely fortunate to see them at Louis’, which proved to be their last tour ever. The room looked meek. Sadly, only 40 people showed up to see them. Clayton Park was just released and they played their hearts out. Halfway through the set, they dedicated a song to me. Who cares if they thought my name was Ronnie? I was fresh-faced and flattered. That night also sparked a great friendship with Plaskett that still stands strong to this day.

Sheaf: Has Canadian rock music been affected by Thrush Hermit?
Arnie: Without a doubt. While the Hermit weren’t exactly household names, they will always serve as a band that Canadian indie rock aficionados often reference and respect. Everyone should own a copy of Clayton Park at some point. It is a good reference for what a proper record should sound like — both in quality of songs and the way it was captured. It’s just that good.

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photo: Sophie Harrington & Gravy T