The Arkells are hoping their new deal with Dine Alone Records lifts them to the same kind of multiplatinum success achieved by labelmates Alexisonfire.

Signing with Dine Alone can be like hitting the jackpot for an independent Hamilton band such as the Arkells.

Dine Alone provides the network and resources necessary to make it in the Canadian big leagues -- marketing campaigns, television spots, radio play and prime performance slots.

Dine Alone's claim to fame is elevating Alexisonfire from a St. Catharines garage band to MuchMusic stardom. Since then, the Toronto-based label has kept its ears to the indie ground, picking up other rising stars such as Bedouin Soundclash, City and Colour, and Attack In Black.

"There are few Canadian independent labels that could provide us with the resources we get from Dine Alone," says Arkells lead vocalist Max Kerman. "They've been very supportive."

The band's first full-length album with Dine Alone isn't expected until the fall, but the deal is already paying off. The Arkells have been interviewed and performed on MTV Live.

The Dine Alone signing has also forced some changes, especially in the band name. The five-piece band, who met at McMaster University, started their career in 2006 under the moniker Charlemagne. They had known that an established band had the name, but didn't think much would come of it. As the deal came through, they decided it was time to develop a unique name. The Arkells were born.

The band has rereleased its EP, Deadlines, on the label, having previously distributed it independently. It is now for sale through the Dine Alone website. The first single -- Oh, The Boss Is Coming! -- has been put into rotation on Toronto radio station The Edge 102.1. The Arkells have also been promised a spot on the side stage July 12 at the radio station's annual music celebration, Edgefest.

The next step for the Arkells is a western tour with Juno nominees Saint Alvia Cartel.

Before heading out West, the Arkells will perform a hometown gig at Pepper Jack Cafe tonight.

Showtime

Special to The Hamilton Spectator

What: The Arkells, with Museum Pieces and Hotkid

When: Tonight, doors open at 9 p.m.

Where: Pepper Jack Cafe, 38 King William St.

Cost: $8 at the door