In the raw and heartfelt track “Ceiling Rats,” Opeongo—fronted by Keegan Trumpour—delivers a poignant exploration of grief. Set against a minimalist backdrop, the song features emotive piano tones and Trumpour’s sorrowful vocals, complemented by harmonies that amplify the emotional weight of the piece. Despite its simple arrangement, “Ceiling Rats” leaves a lasting impression through its sincerity and depth.
The song is part of Opeongo’s forthcoming third album, Eventual Mt. Lee, due in fall 2024, and was inspired by the tragic passing of Trumpour’s best friend, Liam Steffler. The narrative behind “Ceiling Rats” is deeply personal, rooted in the time Trumpour and Steffler spent living together in a basement apartment in Toronto. After Steffler’s passing, the sounds of rodents in the ceiling took on a new significance, as Trumpour imagined the noises were his friend’s spirit rather than pests.
This track highlights Trumpour’s ability to weave personal experiences of loss into his music, turning painful memories into a moving tribute. “Ceiling Rats” is just one example of the emotional honesty that Opeongo has become known for, and it captures the delicate balance between sorrow and the small comforts found in memory. With the support of a rotating cast of musicians, Opeongo continues to craft music that resonates with listeners, bringing them into Trumpour’s introspective world.
Opeongo, the musical project of Midland, Ontario native Keegan Trumpour, has been steadily releasing music since their debut LP Miasma in 2019, with Eventual Mt. Lee marking their third full-length release. Trumpour’s songwriting is marked by its lyrical depth, often delving into themes of mental health, personal transitions, and the complexities of life in modern times.