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“Billy Raffoul has been carrying the torch for anthemic rock songwriting, infusing potent instrumental heights with emotive performances and an unvarnished touch of soul melody.” – Under The Radar |
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“A voice of velvet.”– Atwood Magazine |
Toronto-based soulful singer, songwriter, and producer Billy Raffoul has unveiled the second part of his ambitious double album project with the release of When I Cross The River on August 15, 2025, via Nettwerk. Following the launch of his self-titled album Billy Raffoul on July 18, 2025, this rock-tinged collection showcases a raw, stripped-down side of the artist, emphasizing his emotive vocals and acoustic guitar work. The album, described by Raffoul as a deeply personal endeavor, features 10 tracks that resonate with themes of homecoming, love, and introspection.
Raffoul’s double album release is a testament to his versatility as a songwriter. While his self-titled album leans into pop-infused harmonies and upbeat rhythms, When I Cross The River takes a more acoustic, rock-oriented approach. The artist has shared that the album captures the essence of his songwriting roots, often featuring just his voice and an acoustic guitar. “Both of these albums are a long time coming for me. I’m a songwriter before anything… whether I have my band behind me or just an acoustic guitar in my hands,” Raffoul stated.
When I Cross the River
Listen to When I Cross the River on Spotify · Album · Billy Raffoul · 2025 · 10 songs
The tracklist for When I Cross The River includes:
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When I Cross the River
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Get Along
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Canadian
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Young
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Born to Love
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Little Girl
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Woman
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Spare Parts
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Proving Ground
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When the Skies are Blue
With a runtime of approximately 30 minutes, the album delivers concise yet powerful storytelling, blending indie rock sensibilities with soulful melodies. Tracks like “Born to Love,” which was released as a single alongside “Something New” from the self-titled album, highlight Raffoul’s ability to craft emotionally resonant songs with a rock edge.
The album marks a significant moment in Raffoul’s career, building on the buzz generated by his earlier work, including EPs like 1975 (2018) and singles such as “Driver” and “Difficult” (2017). Collaborations with notable producers and songwriters, including Linda Perry, Mike Elizondo, and Daniel Tashian, add depth to the album’s production while maintaining its authentic, stripped-back feel.
To celebrate the double album release, Raffoul announced a U.S. and Canada tour set to kick off on October 5, 2025, at Schubas in Chicago. The tour will feature stops in major cities, including New York’s Baby’s All Right on October 14, Washington D.C.’s Pearl Street Warehouse on October 19, and Toronto’s Longboat Hall on November 19. Fans can expect intimate performances that highlight both the pop-leaning tracks from Billy Raffoul and the rock-infused energy of When I Cross The River. Full tour details are available on Raffoul’s official website.
Raffoul’s recent acoustic West Coast tour with his brother Peter Raffoul, which included a stop at Los Angeles’ Peppermint Club on April 1, 2025, served as a prelude to this busy season. The tour was designed to build anticipation for his double album, with Raffoul delivering heartfelt performances that left audiences captivated.
With When I Cross The River, Billy Raffoul solidifies his place as a dynamic force in the indie rock and singer-songwriter scenes. The album’s raw, acoustic-driven sound, combined with his soulful storytelling, offers listeners a deeply personal glimpse into his artistry. As Raffoul embarks on his North American tour, fans can look forward to experiencing the emotional depth of his latest work live, cementing his reputation as a performer who connects profoundly with his audience.
