sharon van etten residency at la casa

A little while back we introduced you to La Casa, a beach shack set up by Corona in Byron Bay as a temporary home and studio for some of Australia's best musicians. Artists like Oh Mercy, Kassia Meador and Alpine have settled in for a dose of salty air, seaside sunrises and inspired jam sessions, but most recently it was Sharon Van Etten who shacked up for some musical fun times, flying in directly from Brooklyn, New York. Now that she's completed her time in Byron and jetted back to the Big Apple, we asked the talented lady a few questions about the beach and her ultimate 'pinch yourself' moments.

What did you get up to at La Casa?
I recorded an old song, hung on the beach with my boyfriend, Christian. Rode the house bikes downtown, chilled out. The house is killer!!!

Who were you hanging out with while you were at the house?
Just my boyfriend and La Casa crew. Really great group of people.

How do the beaches of Byron compare to the beaches of New Jersey?
The water is more blue and the beaches are more desolate and untouched. A much more tropical setting.

You started out as an open mic performer – is it surreal to think about where you are now?
Definitely. I cant believe people CHOOSE to listen to me...

What has been the biggest 'pinch yourself' moment since that time?
Touring with Nick Cave. Definitely.

How did the La Casa environment affect the way you wrote and played?
I was just so relaxed and faraway from everything familiar. I need that sometimes.

What's up next for Sharon Van Etten?
I am writing, rehearsing, and getting ready to record a new album. Hopefully to be out early 2014!