Del Water Gap Found Himself in "Chasing the Chimera"
Written by Hannah Peña
After having a whirlwind last summer opening for Niall Horan across America and Europe, Samuel Holden Jaffe, aka Del Water Gap, settled down in New York to complete his third studio album, “Chasing the Chimera.” This album represents the version of him that fans have yet to see. Speaking with Dork, Holden mentioned, “It can be very nerve-wracking and feel very exposing in some ways, but I’ve had the real feeling making this album that if something is hard, it’s probably worth doing.” Nostalgia, optimism, and connection play major roles in this new era. Let’s dive into what Holden has been waiting to say.
In “Small Town Joan Of Arc,” Holden reflects on someone he’s known for a while and her memorable attributes, “White shirt tied in a loop / Diet Pepsi in her hand / Pulling on a cigarette / With her dog in her lap.” These specific details symbolize how head-over-heels he is for her. Holden’s play on Saint Joan of Arc shows that he idolizes someone who is courageous and independent. The chorus explains how he sees it as exciting yet sometimes difficult to be with them: “Pulling rain from the mud / It's a pain, it's a rush.” But it goes to show that Holden will do whatever it takes to be with them.
Further down is “Never Speak Again.” The funky bass reels you in, and Holden’s smooth voice is comparing himself to his lover's qualities, “My sweet, your love is squandered on me / Don't waste your trust sentimentally / I cave and you come over, and I'm sorry / For everything.” He does not feel worthy of being loved. Jealousy creeps up behind and does its best to bring him down. Holden captures the feeling of doubt and regret beautifully. Holden brings a sense of love and nostalgia in “Chasing The Chimera.” The way he expresses his emotions makes the listener feel seen. With the help of brass instruments, this new era pushed Holden in ways he never knew. Stream Chasing The Chimera and get tickets to experience Del Water Gap here.
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