Caamp | Texas Review | Ralph Arvesen
Caamp performing during the Live & In-Concert US 2025 Tour at the Moody Amphitheater Waterloo Park in Austin, Texas on May 29, 2025, with Evan Westfall, Taylor Meier, Matt Vinson, Joseph Kavalec, and Nicholas Falk. (Photo: Ralph Arvesen)

With a sound that brings to mind a campfire singalong and the comforting familiarity of well-worn denim, Columbus, Ohio's Caamp has established itself as a unique voice in today's folk scene. The band, made up of Taylor Meier, Evan Westfall, Joseph Kavalec, Matt Vinson, and Nicholas Falk, delivers an unpretentious sound deeply rooted in Americana tradition.

Their origin story, a genuine friendship blossoming into musical collaboration, is reflected in the organic feel of their music. Meier's gravelly, soulful vocals, often delivered with a raw, almost conversational intimacy, are the undeniable centerpiece. He possesses that rare ability to sound both world-weary and eternally hopeful, a vocal paradox that lends depth to even their most seemingly straightforward tunes. Westfall's banjo, rather than being a mere accompaniment, is an integral voice, weaving intricate melodies and rhythmic textures that are as vital as any guitar line. Vinson's bass provides a sturdy, unwavering foundation, allowing the other instruments to wander and explore without losing their way.

Caamp's lyrical themes often gravitate towards the simple yet profound: the beauty of the natural world, the comfort of home, the complexities of human connection, and the quiet contemplation of life's journey. There's a refreshing honesty in their songwriting; they don't shy away from vulnerability, nor do they indulge in overly ornate metaphors. Instead, they opt for directness, painting vivid pictures with relatable sentiments.

Their rise has been a testament to the power of authentic artistry in an often-saturated industry. Without the backing of a major label machine for much of their early career, Caamp built a loyal following through relentless touring and the undeniable appeal of their live performances. Their shows are not just concerts, they are gatherings, characterized by singalongs, genuine camaraderie, and an atmosphere that feels less like a performance and more like a shared experience.

From their self-titled debut to subsequent releases like "By and By" and "Lavender Days," Caamp has consistently delivered albums that feel like cohesive narratives, each track a chapter in their evolving musical story. While their core sound remains consistent, there's a subtle maturation discernible with each new offering, a deepening of their artistic well.

In an era where music can often feel overly polished or manufactured, Caamp stands as a genuine article. They are a band that reminds us of the enduring power of a good song, a heartfelt lyric, and the simple joy of making music with friends. Their continued success is a testament to their unwavering authenticity and their ability to connect with listeners on a profoundly human level, solidifying their position as an essential voice in contemporary folk music.

Caamp is set to release their new album, Copper Changes Color, on June 6, 2025, through Mom+Pop Music. This 11-track album marks their first full-length release in three years and was entirely written, performed, and produced by the band. The recording process, spanning two years, took place in various U.S. studios, including Sonic Ranch (Tornillo, Texas), Sear Sound (New York, New York), and Flora Recording (Portland, Oregon). Collaborators Beatriz Artola (Fleet Foxes, Adele, Sharon van Etten) and Tucker Martine (Modest Mouse, My Morning Jacket, R.E.M.) handled recording and co-production.

Copper Changes Color delves into the transformative personal experiences of the past few years. Frontman and primary songwriter Taylor Meier drew inspiration from the distinct patina and weathering of copper, using it as a metaphor for life's changes. As Meier puts it, "Take your rings off and wash your hands. Wrap something tightly in newspaper; give it away. Water is running, and Copper Changes Color." Copper Changes Color is available for pre-order now.
Fan reviews:

So great! I’ve seen them three times this year and this was their best show! Thanks for the fun night!

Caamp is incredible. So proud of what they have accomplished. They will forever have my heart. Ohio boys making beautiful noise.

The concert was amazing, my first Caamp concert. I was on the rail right up front. After they finished, Evan got the security guard to give me the pick he was playing with. It was a very special concert for me. I had also been waiting over a year for them to be close enough to me, to go see them live. They didn't disappoint.

Great show! you know you have seen a great show when you leave and immediately check the tour for opportunities to see them again. This band is bound for bigger stages. We were surprised how they rocked despite having a lot of mellow songs. The fans were loud and on their feet and in general, a great crowd.

This was only my second time seeing Caamp and I really enjoyed the show. I wished they would've introduced the songs and the meanings behind the songs for those of us who are new but it's not a huge deal.

Caamp is one of those bands that I never get tired of seeing perform. I really enjoy seeing them in a smaller, more intimate venue.
Setlist for the show at the Moody Amphitheater Waterloo Park
  • Let Things Go
  • Vagabond
  • Great Heights
  • 26
  • Snowshoes
  • Lavender Girl
  • There She Goes
  • Apple Tree Blues
  • No Sleep
  • Peach Fuzz
  • Huckleberry Love
  • Mistakes
  • Down the River
  • So Cool
  • Iffy
  • See the World
  • Sure Of
  • Shade
  • Fairview Feeling
  • Wolf Song
  • Somewhere
  • Walking on a Dream
  • Going to the Country
  • By and By
  • Come With Me Now

Caamp was the main act at the Moody Amphitheater Waterloo Park with guests Blind Pilot. They continue across the United States with the last stop at the Radio City Music Hall in New York, New York on September 13, 2025.

Caamp
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Photos by Ralph Arvesen
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