I Miss You Already + I Haven’t Left Yet Tour — The Fillmore in San Francisco, CA — November 13, 2023

Drawing the few final shows of the “I Miss You Already + I Haven’t Left Yet” tour to a close, Del Water Gap brought a sold-out night to The Fillmore in San Francisco, CA. It was an emotional rollercoaster from start to finish as lead singer, S. Holden Jaffe was an embodied reflection of what his sophomore album, I Miss You Already + I Haven’t Left Yet, is about. Jaffe found those nine words etched in the pages of his late grandfather’s poetry book and, while Jaffe’s grandfather penned the note to his grandmother in another place and time, the years between the past and present disappeared as he considered those words. Though Jaffe delves into difficult subject matter in I Miss You Already + I Haven’t Left Yet, vocalizing experiences with love, loss, sobriety and doubt— he sounds looser and freer than ever before.

The lights dimmed and the unmistakable silhouette of Jaffe, took the stage as the beginning chords of “NFU,” the fifth leading single off of I Miss You Already + I Haven’t Left Yet, came over the speakers as Jaffe introduced himself and his band as Del Water Gap. It was an electric start, immediately setting the tone for the rest of the show. The setlist, a carefully curated blend of old favorites like “Chastain” and “High Tops” and new tracks from their latest album like “Gemini,” “All We Ever Do Is Talk,” and “ Coping on Unemployment”, created a seamless sonic narrative that echoed through the venue. Jaffe’s vocals, a perfect blend of raw emotion and soothing melodies, filled the historic venue. The intimacy of The Fillmore allowed for a connection between the artist and the audience that transcended the typical concert experience.

One of the standout moments of the night was the back to back to back string of high energy songs: “Glitter + Honey,” “Beach House,” and “Perfume,” with Jaffe coming into the audience for the chorus of the latter, leaving a lasting impression on everyone in attendance. His magnetic stage presence and genuine connection with his fans proved once again why they are a force to be reckoned with in the indie music scene.

Words & Photography: Sabrina Poei