Chasing The Chimera and Chasing Dreams: Del Water Gap in Houston, TX

From sewing machines to acoustic solos: Samuel Holden Jaffee brings the intimate and high-energy Chasing the Chimera tour to Houston, TX. Words and photos by Megan Eppolito.

There is a feeling of excitement as the long line waits patiently outside the White Oak Music Hall for Del Water Gap. The 27^th night of the Chasing the Chimera Tour took place on Thursday, Feb. 25, in Houston, Texas. As fans filled the room, the stage was draped with white coverings on the sides and above, creating a fort-like effect. The cursive title of the tour and the third studio album were projected high on the balcony wall. Fans took selfies and group pictures, with the projection behind them capturing the memory of an amazing show about to start. 

As the lights dimmed and the fog filled the stage, the crowd’s anticipation spiked for the singer to appear. Samuel Holden Jaffee, known as Del Water Gap, stepped onto the stage as fans erupted in applause and cheers. The performance opened with “Small Town Joan of Arc,” and the crowd immediately sang along.

The high energy electrified the room as fans jumped up and down, shouting the song lyrics.  Jaffee performed popular songs like “Better Than I Know Myself” and “High Tops,” where the crowd illuminated the venue with their phone flashlights. The setlist also included songs from the 2025 album Chasing the Chimera, such as “Marigold” and “Eastside Girls.” Jaffee slowed things down, singing  “Waiting On The Day,” and switched to an acoustic guitar.

From the balcony to the pit, the venue was packed. Jaffee stopped to drink water and encourage the crowd to stay hydrated, checking in to see how everyone was feeling. He shared his appreciation for everyone who showed up. He stated that it was nice to see so many people come together to support his music while he was far away from his home in Brooklyn, New York.

During the song “Damn,” another popular song from the latest album, Jaffee brought out a sewing machine. For each night on tour, he sews or embroiders fabric while singing the song, and gives the piece to a lucky fan in the crowd. This moment adds a theatrical, immersive element to the show, giving fans a unique keepsake to cherish. 

Jaffee’s live performance brought his discography to life, sounding even more impactful than listening through headphones. The instruments sounded clear through the speakers, fully immersing the crowd in the performance, and Jaffee’s strong vocals flowed effortlessly in the room. When he dances, strumming his guitar, he appears to be in his natural element, truly enjoying the art of performing live. During the song “Perfume,” a song from his 2021 self-titled album, he sang in the middle of the crowd, surrounded by fans dancing and singing the words at the tops of their lungs. The night ended with “Ode To A Conversation Stuck In Your Throat,” leaving fans with memories that will last a lifetime.