Montreal-based contemporary folk artist Brian Campbell continues his string of poetic, emotionally resonant releases with “I Saw You Going Out Today,” out now.

Known for his deft fingerstyle guitar, intimate lyricism, and storyteller’s charm, Campbell delivers a song that feels both timeless and immediate—rooted in the traditions of classic singer-songwriters yet bearing the sensitivity of modern folk expression.

The single is part of Campbell’s upcoming full-length album Let’s Talk, which explores the theme of communication—both tender and fraught—in love, politics, and the world at large. “I Saw You Going Out Today” stands out as one of the album’s most personal, bittersweet entries.

Listen on Spotify here: open.spotify.com/track/33uujvCAgFleFDlBZ2AVP0

Set to a delicate nylon-string guitar and enriched by Erich Kory’s cello, the track reflects the joyful unease of lasting love, asking whether the comfort and safety we feel in someone’s presence are real or just other “flights of fancy that swiftly die / that come from voice and guitar.” 

Originally drafted on a Montreal balcony nearly 30 years ago, the song was recently completed with input from acclaimed Canadian folk artist David Francey, who helped shape lines like: “Your presence in my life, my love / Is sunlight showering from above.”

The tension between security and doubt gives the track its quiet magic. “Maybe sorrow is not very far,” Campbell sings, but the memory of a kiss and a cheerful wave brings a grounding peace: “Ah, you made me feel so glad.”

Influenced by Latin American nueva canción artists like Pablo Milanés and Victor Jara, the song’s structure and sentiment echo their honest aesthetic—gentle, poetic, and laced with socio-emotional depth.

Campbell’s collaborators on the track and forthcoming album include Karina Marquez and Leesa Mackey (backing vocals), and Chard Chénier (harmonica), Danilla Carbert (trumpet), the aforementioned Erich Kory (cello), Martin Bennett (lead electric guitar, bass) and Michael Rien (drums), all of whom contribute to the warmth and intricacy of the arrangements.

“I Saw You Going Out Today” follows previous singles “Planet on Fire,” “Only Breath,” and “A Crystal Rim,” each praised for their lyrical craftsmanship and emotional reach by outlets like Canadian Beats, Tinnitist, and Record World International.

The single will be officially launched at a special album release event for Let’s Talk on Thursday, June 19 at Mariposa… le café in Montreal (5562 Upper Lachine Rd., 6–8pm, doors at 5pm). Campbell is also slated to perform at Hudson Porchfest on September 13–14, with selections from Let’s Talk featured in the setlist.

With “I Saw You Going Out Today,” Brian Campbell once again proves that quiet truths—delivered by voice and guitar—can speak the loudest.

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