A Van Etten Autumn

There are so many shows that I am looking forward to this fall, but one that sticks out is Junip with Sharon Van Etten on Sunday, November 7. 

While originally interested in seeing José Gonzélez again (He is in Junip and has put on lovely shows at The Cedar before), lately I've been smitten even more with the opener. 

Her songs are subtly sad only because their beauty is so overwhelming. The old saying goes, "Misery loves company," but her company feels more like a hug than it feels like having a fellow wallower (If you watch the video, be sure to watch all the way to the end to see her smile). 

Sharon Van Etten has also reminded me about lyrics. Growing up I wanted to sing along with every song on the radio (whether I knew the correct words or not) but I haven't paid much attention to them lately. Hers are simple, sad, and straightforward. Here's a sample:

I wish I knew what to do with you,

But the truth is I ain't got a clue,

Do you? Do you?

I wish I had an idea of what I need,

But we, oh we, can't know and that's okay,

That's okay.

I wish you'd understand,

I wish that I could know,

The truth is I have no idea.

I wish we could just run around

And only worry about right now,

I hate to admit it but I don't know sh-

And neither do you, do you, do you,

And that is good enough 

For me, for you, for now, 

As long as we can talk about it.