Music Review: Stephanie Westdal – “Common Chain”
- Bryon Harris
- Aug 4
- 2 min read
Featured on The Compassion Project: Songs for Animal, Human, and Earth Justice Label: Artists & Activists Records
There’s a quiet power in the opening moments of “Common Chain” by Stephanie Westdal — a sparse, hand-drum rhythm and subtle island ambiance lay the foundation for a song that’s as soulful as it is urgent. With her natural, down-to-earth voice, Westdal wastes no time in letting us know she has a lot to say about the world we live in.
“They’re burning down the trees and leaving all the babies, in empty fields of dust where the water turns to rust.”
The lines are devastating, but never delivered in a way that feels preachy or accusatory. Instead, Stephanie’s strength lies in her empathy — her ability to say difficult truths with a voice that welcomes listeners into reflection and connection. Produced by longtime collaborator Chris Burke-Gaffney, the arrangement slowly blooms after the first verse with rich electric guitar riffs, layered percussion, and harmonies that expand the song’s emotional landscape.
At the heart of “Common Chain” is a message of solidarity — the idea that we are linked not by borders or backgrounds, but by a shared humanity:
“It’s the common chain that links us one to one.”
The chorus is catchy and singable, with call-and-response backing vocals repeating “Starting over, starting all over now.” It’s the kind of refrain that uplifts without denying the weight of the world — a melodic reminder that, even after devastation, healing is possible when we come together.
Inspired by Westdal’s work with Activation Trust in Kenya — a now-defunct organization that helped empower orphans through education — the song draws from real experiences of inequality and crisis, yet always circles back to hope. Westdal openly acknowledges her own privilege, using her position to ask others to step up and do the same.
Musically, “Common Chain” surprises in all the right ways. Its rhythmic base keeps your feet tapping, while compositional shifts keep the listener fully engaged. Lyrically, it strikes a rare balance: deeply emotional and socially aware, but never heavy-handed. It’s that rare kind of protest song that doesn’t shout — it gently but firmly leads.
With warmth, wisdom, and poetic honesty, Stephanie Westdal delivers one of The Compassion Project’s most heartfelt offerings. A song that reminds us that compassion isn’t just a feeling — it’s an action. And one that begins with realizing we’re all linked by the same common chain.
Listen to Stephanie Westdal
🌐 thestephaniewestdalband.com
🎧 Spotify – Stephanie Westdal
📺 YouTube – Stephanie Westdal
The Compassion Project: Songs for Animal, Human, and Earth Justice is a genre-spanning compilation album set for release on September 5, 2025, by Artists & Activists Records. Each song on the album explores themes of empathy, justice, and our deep interconnectedness with all life. From human rights to environmental advocacy to animal liberation, the album challenges listeners to reflect and take action. Artists & Activists Records — an Austin-based, mission-driven label — is dedicated to using music as a force for positive change. The label supports artists who use their art to champion animal rights, human compassion, and the healing of our planet.
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