Sharon Van Etten

STAGE AND SCREEN STAR

What music are you currently grooving to?

Adriana McCassim’s debut EP Quiet Sides. [She] reminds me of my younger self. She worked as an intern at a management company, learned how to record herself and others, as well as thriving on constant motion, inspired by heartbreak, yet feeling rooted in self-awareness and contemplation.

What, if push comes to shove, is your all-time favourite album? Fleetwood Mac’s Tusk. Makes me miss playing with my band and embracing the flaws of live feels.

What was the first record you ever bought? And where did you buy it? Elastica’s first album. I was 14. I bought this at a Sam Goody at the mall, on cassette, the summer we were driving cross-country from New Jersey to drop my brother off at college in Arizona. I’m one of five kids and my Walkman was everything to me. Still love this record.

Which musician, other than yourself, have you ever wanted to be? Joan Jett. I’ve always had this inner rocker alter ego that sneaks out. I still try and conjure her attitude in my vocal performances, but no one could ever replicate what she has done.

What do you sing in the shower? Unchained Melody. It became a melody to my child early on. [It] may be one of the best melodies ever.

What is your favourite Saturday night record? Portishead’s Dummy. I always think of high school when I hear this album. Driving in my friend Rob’s Jeep Wrangler, with the windows down, to the beach and being silly teenagers.

And your Sunday morning record? Lucinda Williams’ World Without Tears. One of the best singers of our time. She sets a tone, takes you places.

epic Ten is out digitally on April 16. Physical release is June 11 on Ba Da Bing.