Chris Trapper brings warm memories with “Campfire Symphony”

Grammy-nominated Chris Trapper keeps proving why he’s one of the more enduring figures with his latest single, “Campfire Symphony.” It is a subdued ballad that is tender, reminiscent of a whispered confession shared under the stars. Already known for building relationships in person, building a strong fan base from the ground up, Trapper is yet again doing what he does best–unashamed simplicity and directness in his gloriously stark lyrics. “Campfire Symphony” is the sort of song that doesn’t demand attention, but earns it with the opening notes.

Trapper’s trademark acoustic guitar style takes the lead with soft, languid strumming that gives his sincere voice the cushion in which to be cradled. His delivery is hushed, yet confident, the voice of a person who understands the weight of words and chooses to deploy them sparingly but deliberately. Where “Campfire Symphony” excels is in its ability to make a particular feeling so universal, the delight of feeling connected through music, nature, and the shared silence. It doesn’t depend on grand metaphors or heavy instrumentation. It moves to embrace authenticity, the kind of authenticity that only a veteran songwriter who’s spent years living the words of his songs on the road can bring.

Trapper draws word pictures like firelight shadows in works that are so delicate, so quick, and yet resonate so deeply. It’s a song that just as easily could be the soundtrack to a long drive, a contemplation, or a sing-along with friends around an actual campfire. There’s a presence in the song that still lingers long after the final note has faded. “Campfire Symphony” is a subtle reminder that sometimes, you just need a melody, a guitar, and some room to breathe. In a year of unrest, Chris Trapper confirms the radical act of intimacy.