When we saw Canada’s wonderful 7-piece southern soul, roots ‘n’ rock band BYWATER CALL performing live in concert, we thought their emancipated groove-rock ‘n’ blues romps were, ‘crammed with excitement [and] vivaciously impactful..’
Vocalist Meghan Parnell and guitarist Dave Barnes (who sounds and even looks like Derek Trucks) lead this band of multi-talented rock ‘n’ roll practitioners. The seven-piece outfit has been nominated for numerous Blues Awards, including recognition for Meghan’s vocals.
“Sunshine,” their live album, drops on August 22, 2025, and is launched with a dynamic cover of “Love the One You’re With.” (stream here >>)
Meghan’s vocals attain almost sacred levels of commitment and devotion…
Raw Ramp
The live album is named after their song “Sunshine” which is a vibrant, funky ‘n’ soulful, electric blues number, that comes super-packed with lively instrumentation and is topped-off with Meghan’s perfectly strained vocals. With its mix of irregular rhythms, supple basslines, and the most joyous guitar you’ve ever heard… its a song that would make anyone’s day!
“[The] song’s a great representation of our live show and the chemistry between all the band members,” says singer Meghan Parnell.
“You really get to hear the power of the vocal and then the craftsmanship of the instrumentalists as I step away from the mic and really let them do their thing. No live version of this song is the same. Every time we perform it, it’s a journey.”
“Bring Me Down” is almost sacred, using soft blues guitar and the merest hint of organ. As the song progresses, Meghan’s vocals attain almost sacred levels of commitment and devotion.
‘Sign of Peace’ co-written with Joe Ernewein features an abundance of magical rhythms and some truly amazing instrumental artistry! It’s a song about genuine forgiveness. The number features John Kervin’s incredible key work and lots of jolly tambourine! The piece sounds like the Gabe Dixon Band, but with keys, though vocally the piece reminds us of the best of Etta James and even, yes, Janis Joplin.
This album is full of truth, beauty, radiance, and virtuosity. Outstanding!
See the band play live UK dates this autumn (on tour with Dan Patlansky) see poster below.
Pre-order the Bywater Call Sunshine – live in 2024 album here : https://continentalrecordservices.bandcamp.com/album/sunshine-live-2024
Words: © Neil Mach
Main photo: © Denis Carpentier
RAW RAMP 