Sharon Van Etten’s seventh studio album, Sharon Van Etten and the Attachment Theory marks a momentous progression in her musical journey. Departing from her familiar solo ventures, this record is a magical collaboration with her band, The Attachment Theory. It culminates in a curiously fresh sound —one not nearly as celebrated as it should be—a sound of ethereal currents and pure musical passion.
Recorded at the former Eurthymics’ studio, The Church, and released February 7, 2025, via Jagjaguwar, it holds the following lineup: Jorge Balbi (drums), Devra Hoff (bass, vocals), Teeny Lieberson (synth, piano, guitar, vocals). All of whom bring an imperative musical element that adds to the almost spirit-like sounds emanating from the collective. The group’s debut album remains self-titled and comes complete with ten tracks of an exploratory sound that Van Etten could only have accomplished with the lineup put together for The Attachment Theory.
The album opens with “Live Forever,” where Van Etten’s fairy tale vocals are complemented by rhythms so electrified you’ll look for a rubber tether, rhythms, and seductive synths, setting a tone of soulful searching and complete vulnerability. This track exemplifies the band’s ability to blend elements concurrent with atmospheric locations with introspective lyrics, working diligently in their exploration of mortality and the possibility of subsequent life.
This is while songs like “Afterlife” reach further into the philosophical questions, with Van Etten’s voice flying over complex but heavenly melodic keyboard melodies. The song’s self-evaluative nature is thrust forward by its sugary instrumentation, leading to a paranormal atmosphere of sorts.
Tracks like “Idiot Box” and “Somethin‘ Ain’t Right” promote the group’s post-punk influences, highlighting roller–coaster bass lines and multi-dimensional rhythms. These songs bring to light the band’s tremendous versatility and their ability to infuse an accurate portrayal of human existence into the album’s darker themes.
Lastly, the album’s closing tracks, “Fading Beauty” and “I Want You Here,” offer a relaxing conclusion, with Van Etten’s vocals drifting over delicate but simple arrangements. These songs provide an introspective end to an album that is both daring musically and so resonant emotionally that it deserves to be played at the end of everyone’s work day.
In closing, Sharon Van Etten and the Attachment Theory is an ambitious and creative album that redefines not only Van Etten’s artistic direction but also the direction of the entire music industry. The collaboration with The Attachment Theory has significantly expanded Van Etten’s musical possibilities. The chemistry and instrumental prowess, not to mention the vocal dynamite present at every turn, set them up to conquer any genre they deem worthy of their dipping toes.
That is why Cryptic Rock dubs Sharon Van Etten and The Attachment Theory as a must-listen, giving it 4.5 out of 5 stars.
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