This is the second time that Bywater Call have played at the Corporation in Sheffield. They supported Robert Jon and the Wreck in 2022 but just as a duo. Whilst they caught my attention that night, particularly Meghan’s vocal, I felt the power of her voice needed a band. So returning they did with a band and what a band it was – seven-piece in all, so Meghan really needed that voice tonight. The Corporation in Sheffield is an old school rock venue which is not normally suited to a band like Bywater Call, but tonight a large crowd has descended to witness their talents. Bywater Call kick off with ‘Bring it Back’ from their album ‘Remain’.
The cover of ‘Love the One You’re With’ was epic with an amazing sax and horns interplay, that was spacey and psychedelic. The band were on fire on this one and the crowd loved it with huge applause, Meghan thanking the audience and saying, “I wasn’t sure what to expect” and “I am blown away by your response”. Well, we were blown away by the performance tonight.
We got treated to a new song that had been written and performed only once before. UI didn’t catch the title but it may have been called ‘Tie Me Up’, not sure but I do know it was great. The excellent ‘Falls Away’, that is currently receiveing a lot of airtime on Planet Rock was astounding, and even better live. A brilliant cover of the Allman Brothers Midnight Rider followed.
The intimate ‘Your Colours’ was spell binding, sending shivers down my spine. One of the most amazing vocal performances I have had the pleasure of witnessing, a breath taking performance. Meghan is right up there with the very best vocalists there have ever been. There were so many amazing songs tonight that really got everyone grooving.
So, Toronto’s Bywater Call were insanely good tonight in Sheffield, with amazing levels of musicianship that are rare to witness. A lot is to be said about Meghan’s voice and yes, it is immense but a special mention must be made for the rest of the band who were simply off the scale. A real punchy and gritty set that lasted over two hours and kept the crowd in awe all night. I will definitely be seeing them again when they return, hopefully at a more suitable venue worthy of their stature.
GALLERY by David Pickles
