Album: Shepherd, August 2024
Can’t Miss Tracks: Everybody Knows, Colours, Holler, For All We Know, Turn It Around
Canadian roots rock blues band Bywater Call is poised for greatness. With lead vocalist Meghan Parnell, and a lineup of world-class musicians who are also stellar songwriters, Dave Barnes (guitar), Bruce McCarthy (drums), Mike Meusel (bass), John Kervin (keys), Stephen Dyte (trumpet), and Julian Nalli (tenor sax), Bywater Call stands out as one of the most riveting acts today
Bywater Call delivers more than just roots music; their songwriting, the synergy of these talented musicians, and Parnell’s remarkable voice make Shepherd a must-listen album exploring themes of the human condition and resilience through a deeply soulful lens.
Their third studio album, Shepherd, is a breath of fresh air, delivering a modern, infectious groove that captivates from the very first note. Featuring ten original tracks infused with roots, rock, and blues—and complemented by a full horn section—Shepherd is an album that surprises and delights.
The album opens with “Everybody Knows,” which sets the tone with its Southern rock feel and showcases Parnell’s impressive vocal prowess. Her performance is not only technically excellent but also imbued with soulful intensity.
Shepherd spans a range of styles from rollicking roots rock to intimate ballads, some with a swampy vibe. “Colours” delves into a “hurricane love” that leaves one feeling shattered. Parnell’s voice here channels the emotional depth of Susan Tedeschi and Aretha Franklin, while retaining her unique flair. While Barnes’s guitar work and Kervin’s keyboards contribute to the song’s depth.
“Sweet Maria” is an upbeat, New Orleans-inspired track with gritty guitar work by Dave Barnes. The chorus, enriched with harmonies and handclaps, adds to its vibrant energy.
“Holler,” a foot-stomping track, wails with sinewy slide guitar and deep blues roots. Barnes’ haunting resonator guitar chops and the driving beat set the stage for Parnell’s commanding vocals, capturing the essence of delta blues.
“Roll” emerges as a standout track, narrating the struggles of three ordinary people and delivering a message of perseverance. With its rootsy core, resonator guitar, fiery slide work, and gospel-inspired build, it celebrates resilience with a slow groove that resonates deeply. “Roll,” the second single of 2024, begins with a divergent beat and evolves into a passionate soul anthem, utilizing the horn section and Barnes’ blazing guitar alongside Parnell’s soaring vocals.
“Turn It Around” blends Dixieland jazz, country, and roots rock, allowing Dyte and Nalli to shine. McCarthy’s driving beat and Barnes’ fills complement Parnell’s strong vocal delivery on this love-themed track.
The album closes with “Sign of Peace,” a New Orleans brass band tribute featuring Christian Overton on trombone and Jay Burr on tuba. Parnell’s vocals about the sign of peace are driven by Kervin’s honky-tonk keyboards, leading to an explosive finale.
Shepherd, available worldwide on August 9, 2024, is their third studio album and features ten original tracks that reflect the band’s unique take on various genres. Having performed nearly a hundred shows across Europe, the USA, and Canada in 2023, Bywater Call’s Southern rock sound draws comparisons to the Tedeschi Trucks Band, the Allman Brothers, and Delaney & Bonnie and Friends.
