Sharon Van Etten

The label 'singer songwriter' has become somewhat of a disappointing label in recent years, immediately conjuring up images of mediocrity and boring white boys who can play guitar, but have nothing to say.  It's difficult not to label Sharon Van Etten in this way, however much to her credit, as her last two records in particular have proven, she's anything but mediocre and is unquestionably one our generation's finer lyricists.

What's noticeable from the outset of tonight's show at Shepherd's Bush Empire, is just how similar Van Etten's voice sounds live when comparing the performance to her records. Quite the feat considering just how heartfelt, emotive and beautiful her records are. Opener 'Afraid Of Nothing' is  a case in point, a gorgeous song which swirls into a breathtaking crescendo, led by her harmonies with keyboard player Heather Woods Broderick.

The vocal interplay between the two is a vital component of the set, with Van Etten clearly encouraged and inspired by her band. Whilst the beauty of her voice helps to charge much of the set, the energy of her band help to set Van Etten apart from her peers loitering under that 'singer songwriter' tag. 'Taking Chances' sounds far less subdued than on record, proving to be much more majestic and danceable in a live setting, without losing any of its emotional power and intensity.

Whilst her previous two albums have propelled her onto great heights, there appears to be no sign of resting, as room is made for two new songs, both of which could well signal a mainstream breakthrough, whilst staying true to her sound. Forthcoming single 'I Don't Want To Let You Down' is perhaps one of Van Etten's most upbeat songs to date, despite the apprehension of the title.  It bustles with a vibrancy and energy that perfectly showcases her endearing personality.

It's left to set closer 'Your Love Is Killing Me', however, to demonstrate what Van Etten does best. Both on record and in a live setting, it's a raw, brutal monster of a song, which tonight sees her band react in kind to the heartbreak of lyrics such as "burn my skin so I can't feel you. Stab my eyes so I can't see you." Depressing? Perhaps on paper, but what is quite obviously a devastating ode to a broken relationship and it's aftermath proves to be a euphoric and unifying moment. It perfectly encapsulates what makes Van Etten so special and such an inspiration. Not only is her voice majestic, but her emotional honesty shines through, leaving you enraptured. Make no mistake, Sharon Van Etten is the real deal.