November 28, 2011

Sharon Van Etten - "Serpents"

Just when you think the whole singer-songwriter schtick has finally teetered out, a talent like Sharon Van Etten comes along. In the internet's computer-, synth-, and remix-centered climate, it's impressive how much steam Van Etten has been able to generate with just her guitar and achey heartbroken voice. On paper, her personal and emotive brand of musical storytelling represents nothing new, but then you hear that one-of-a-kind voice and instantly everything else melts into irrelevance. For Van Etten's forthcoming third LP Tramp, she received support from the likes of The National's Dessner brothers, Zach Condon of Beirut, and Julianna Barwick. However, this music nerd is particularly excited to hear the added juice of The Walkmen's unequaled drummer Matt Barrick and a few husky-voiced harmonies with Jenn Wasner of Wye Oak, both of which you can preview below in the promising first taste of the LP, "Serpents." Also make sure to check out a few of SVE's older collaborations, including a great Magnetic Fields cover with The Antlers.

Sharon Van Etten - "Serpents" (from Tramp)
The Antlers - "Nothing Matter When We're Dancing (Feat. Sharon Van Etten)" (from New York Hospitals)
Air Waves - "Waters (Feat. Sharon Van Etten)" (from Dungeon Dots)

Sharon Van Etten

2 comments:

  1. I saw her this past summer at Bumbershoot in Seattle - amazing unique voice, and great songs. Put the dummer from the Walkmen anywhere near that and I am getting wet just thinking about it.

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  2. her first album was good, but this, spectacular.

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