SHARON VAN ETTEN // BARROWLAND BALLROOM, GLASGOW
Sharon Van Etten is at her most powerful with her band, The Attachment Theory.
★★★★★ (5/5)
Sharon Van Etten's latest concert, accompanied by her band, The Attachment Theory, marks a stunning evolution in her sound. Over the course of the night, it became clear that Sharon has reached a new level of power and confidence, blending raw emotion with intricate musicality in a way that left the audience in awe. From the moment the lights dimmed and the first notes of "Live Forever" reverberated through the venue, it was evident that this was no ordinary performance.
The opening track, "Live Forever," set the tone with its deep, resonating rhythms and haunting melodies. As the song swelled, Sharon's voice rang out with an ethereal power that contrasted beautifully with the dark atmosphere created by her band. This powerful combination of her vocal prowess and The Attachment Theory’s flawless instrumentation established a gripping energy that would carry through the entire show.
"Afterlife" followed, and it quickly became a standout moment of the evening. The track is a gothic dance floor anthem, infectious and atmospheric. The minimalist yet dramatic beats were enhanced by the lush layers of sound, giving the song a hypnotic quality. Sharon’s voice took on a commanding tone, elevating the track into something both chilling and deeply moving. The audience swayed along, entranced by the rhythm and the intensity of the song.
The mood shifted with "Idiot Box," a quirky, upbeat number that brought a burst of energy to the show. The song was a joyful departure from the darker, more introspective tracks that dominated earlier in the set, with its infectious melody and playful lyrics. It’s a testament to Sharon's range as an artist that she can seamlessly transition from gothic drama to an upbeat anthem that gets the limbs moving.
Another highlight was the reworking of "Every Time the Sun Comes Up." Known for its darker, more melancholic tone, Sharon transformed the song into something completely new. The new arrangement brought a burst of colour and vibrancy, reshaping the song into an uplifting, almost jubilant track that surprised fans and left them in awe of her continual evolution. It was clear from the reaction of the crowd that this reworking of a familiar favourite was a moment of pure magic.
Sharon's transformation was evident not just in her musical evolution but also in her stage presence. There was a newfound confidence and clarity in her performance. Tracks like "Somethin’ Ain’t Right" and "Southern Life (What It Must Be Like)" showcased her ability to balance vulnerability and strength. Her voice, already remarkable for its depth, now carried a rawness and intensity that matched the expansive sound of her band. These songs—especially "Southern Life"—revealed an emotional depth that resonated deeply with the audience.
"Trouble," a track that had become a fan favourite, was performed with a palpable intensity that added to its already powerful lyrics. The song's exploration of internal conflict and the search for peace felt even more urgent in the live setting, with Sharon’s voice soaring through every word. The band, as always, was in perfect sync, crafting a seamless backdrop that allowed Sharon to pour her emotions into every note.
The intimacy of "No One’s Easy to Love" was a stunning moment in the set. Sharon's vocal delivery on this track was raw and intimate, cutting through the atmosphere with a sincerity that was impossible to ignore. The deep emotional core of the song, paired with the subtle instrumentation, made it one of the most touching moments of the evening.
Later in the set, Sharon reached a peak with "Comeback Kid" and "Seventeen," songs that felt like triumphs in their own right. "Comeback Kid," in particular, was a powerful anthem of resilience, and the crowd sang along as if each word were a mantra. The sense of unity in the audience during these tracks underscored Sharon’s growing influence as an artist who inspires not just through her music, but through her narrative of strength and growth.
By the time Sharon launched into "Fading Beauty" during the encore, the atmosphere had shifted once again. The song’s haunting, evocative nature, combined with her band’s delicate, intricate arrangements, was the perfect conclusion to a night of such profound transformation. Sharon Van Etten has truly arrived at her most powerful evolution yet, leaving fans in awe of her growth as an artist and a performer.
As the lights came up and the crowd slowly filed out, it was clear that Sharon Van Etten and The Attachment Theory had delivered a performance that would be remembered for years to come. Their seamless blend of gothic drama, uplifting energy, and raw emotional power created a show that felt both intimate and epic—an unforgettable testament to an artist at the height of her creative journey.