It is starting to become a tradition, Bywater Call opening their U.K. tour with a secret gig at The Tuesday Night Music Club in Coulsdon. This show had sold out many weeks previously with no publicity or announcement. Bywater Call are destined for much larger venues, but they are not alone in loving the intimate atmosphere at this club.
Words: Paul Long | Images: Tony Cole
They truly are a band; although one is immediately bewitched by the incredible vocal talent of singer Meghan Parnell, you are soon drawn in to the mesmeric guitar of Dave Barnes and how every member is a crucial part of the groove and soul of Bywater Call, so I will name-check Bruce McCarthy on drums, Mike Meusel (bass), keyboard player John Kervin and the horn section: Stephen Dyte (trumpet) and Julian Nalli (tenor sax).
They begin with a new song, ‘Hold Me Down,’ which sounds like a ’60s soul anthem that you already knew, then that voice kicks in and it is clear that we are in for an inspirational evening. This is followed by ‘Roll,’ from their album ‘Shepherd,’ with its beautiful a Capella ending. The highlights here are some excellent slide guitar from Dave Barnes, and the powerful horn section (who are also dab hands at backing vocals and percussion). Some of the new songs are just jaw-dropping. In the first set the standout is ‘Only.’ The first half closes with an incredible version of ‘Left Behind,’ a personal favourite and its power hits everybody in the room.
In the second set, the crowd sings along enthusiastically to ‘Sweet Maria.’ Then the truly stunning new song ‘Clutter’ is followed by their take on The Band’s ‘Don’t Do It.’ The final number, ‘Everybody Knows’, brings the first of two standing ovations and a call for more. A shout-out from the audience elicits a diversion from the set list for a rousing take of ‘Love The One You’re With,’ which brings out the jam band in them as every player is given chance to shine in a series of extended solos.
By a country mile, this is my favourite current live band. You will have to go a long way to beat the passion and soul of Meghan and the powerhouse band that is Bywater Call. Do yourself a favour and go and see them – you will be as captivated as the sold-out Tuesday Night Music Club.
