Remain
Gypsy Soul, 2022
9/10
A powerful Canadian 7 piece who know their way around a southern soul, blues and roots rock tune you won’t soon forget, Bywater Call deliver balladry, funky moments and plenty of dense blues rock across these 11 well thought tracks.
“Falls Away” starts the listen with thick guitars and gritty yet tuneful singing, as the warm, fluid blues rock gets quite rugged, and “Lover Down Slow” follows with warm horns and playful organ making for a breezy and robust climate.
Further along, the booming sax and piano of “Left Behind” complements the very soulful quality, while “Ties That Bind” finds plenty of grooves amid the crisp drums, bouncy bass and expressive singing.
“Locked” and “Bring It Back” exit the listen, where the former finds a very intimate place to reside with its poetic demeanor and soaring bouts, and the latter thumps with a busy, adventurous and festive charm that’s anthemic and possibly the best selection present.
The band are spearheaded by the vocals of Meghan Parnell and the skilled slide guitar work of Dave Barnes. Additionally, Bruce McCarthy handles drums, Mike Meusel plays bass, Alan Zemaitis manipulates the keyboards, Stephen Dyte delivers trumpet and Julian Nalli contributes tenor sax. Collectively, they make a most dynamic and memorable version of blues rock that you won’t soon forget.
Travels well with: Jeffrey Halford And The Healers- Soul Crusade; Crystal Shawanda- Church House Blues