Article Contributed by Gratefulweb
Published on 2026-11-08
(From left to right) Nels Schibsted, Ryan MacNeill, Macie Parker, Matt Allard - Photo Credit: Errol Colandro
OAKLAND, CA, November 6, 2026 — Ryan MacNeill & The Big Deal, the cosmic Americana band from Oakland, draws from traditional storytelling in their debut self-titled album, which was released on all streaming platforms on Friday, November 6. The album features their first two singles, “Old Mill,” with Barry Sless on pedal steel, and “Rivers.” These tracks, along with the rest of the album, showcase the band’s country backbone that flows into a psychedelic sonic space that takes listeners on a journey out of their everyday lives and into the cosmos.
“We’re excited to share our music with the world. It’s been over a year in the making,” said Ryan MacNeill, guitarist, vocalist and songwriter of Ryan MacNeill & The Big Deal. “A lot of blood, sweat and tears have gone into this project and the evolution of the band really shines through.”
Recorded at the historic Hyde Street Studios in San Francisco, the album blends rich vocal harmonies, syncopated drum rhythms, droning organ swells and driving, melodic basslines—all tied together by MacNeill’s textured guitar tone and resonant storytelling.
“We’re putting the album out on 11-6-26 because it’s a special date for me,” MacNeill said. “One and one and six, you get eight. And then two plus six, you get eight again. Double eights. Eight’s a number that’s followed me my whole life—as a sign of infinite transformation, rhythm and strength.”
The band's current live lineup includes Ryan MacNeill on lead guitar and vocals, Nels Schibsted on bass, Matt Allard on Hammond organ and electric piano, and Macie Parker on vocals.
Ryan MacNeill & The Big Deal performed November 7 at the Old Western Saloon in Point Reyes Station, California, and return to the stage November 25 at the Papermill Creek Saloon in Forest Knolls, California, and again at the Old Western Saloon on November 28 for immersive nights of high-energy jams, open-road grooves and captivating tunes.
“None of this would be possible without the support of our friends, family and fans,” said Matt Allard, the band’s organ player. “Not to mention the Bay Area music community as a whole.”
Listen to the self-titled debut album HERE.
November 25, 2026
Papermill Creek Saloon
Forest Knolls, CA
November 28, 2026
Old Western Saloon
Point Reyes Station, CA
