Del Water Gap Draws Inspiration from Isabella Rossellini for New Album
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Indie-pop artist Del Water Gap, also known as Holden Jaffe, recently released his third album, ‘Chasing the Chimera,’ on Nov. 7. In an exclusive interview with PEOPLE, Jaffe shared insights into the creative process behind the album, his experience opening for Niall Horan, and the influence of Isabella Rossellini on the album’s title.
After a demanding period of touring with Niall Horan, Jaffe found himself grappling with the idea of creating new music. The pressure from those around him to produce another record left him feeling anxious and apprehensive. To reconnect with his passion for music, Jaffe embarked on a journey of self-discovery and introspection. He delved into literature and poetry, drawing inspiration from renowned authors and poets such as Louise Gluck and Sylvia Plath.
During this period of soul-searching, Jaffe reunited with writer and producer Gabe Goodman, reigniting his creativity and love for songwriting. Together, they embarked on a quest to infuse each song with authenticity and truth, culminating in the creation of ‘Chasing the Chimera,’ his latest studio album.
The album’s title was influenced by Jaffe’s participation in a film club with his 101-year-old grandmother. A screening of the movie ‘La Chimera’ and a virtual discussion with Isabella Rossellini provided Jaffe with a fresh perspective on his creative process. Rossellini’s insights on the importance of taking breaks and stepping away from artistic pursuits resonated deeply with Jaffe, prompting him to explore themes of longing and self-discovery in his music.
Jaffe’s relationship with his grandmother, who played a pivotal role in the inception of their film club, underscored the importance of meaningful connections and shared experiences. The bond they formed over their weekly movie discussions during the pandemic exemplified the power of art to foster connections and bridge generational divides.
The album’s singles, ‘Marigolds’ and ‘How to Live,’ encapsulate Jaffe’s musings on love, regret, and the complexities of human emotions. ‘How to Live’ serves as a reflection on the illusions of adulthood, while ‘Marigolds’ delves into the intricacies of relationships and emotional vulnerability. Through these tracks, Jaffe invites listeners to introspect and explore their own narratives of love and loss.
Jaffe’s journey towards sobriety and self-discovery provides a poignant backdrop to the album’s themes of loneliness and introspection. As he navigates the tumultuous waters of artistic expression and personal growth, Jaffe’s music serves as a mirror to his inner struggles and triumphs.
In a nod to his evolving artistic journey, Jaffe shared his gratitude for Joe Jonas’ cover of ‘How to Live,’ emphasizing the significance of having fellow artists recognize and appreciate his music. This unexpected moment of validation underscored the universality of music as a conduit for shared experiences and emotions.
As ‘Chasing the Chimera’ continues to resonate with listeners worldwide, Jaffe’s introspective lyrics and emotive melodies serve as a testament to the enduring power of music to inspire, heal, and connect individuals across boundaries. With each note and lyric, Del Water Gap invites audiences to embark on a journey of self-discovery and emotional authenticity, reminding us of the transformative magic of music.