Sharon Van Etten

This singer-songwriter nurtures simple melodies and chord progressions into melancholy masterpieces with her haunting, yet captivating voice.  Confident but reserved, her live shows are where she really shines.  In fact, this is why I have attached two(!) videos to this post, both of which are her performing in the flesh.  She is truly an amazing talent, and quite productive too -- she has released three albums in the past three years.  Here are the recs:

Albums:  Epic (2010), Because I Was In Love (2009)

Tracks: A Crime, Peace Sign, One Day, For You, Consolation Prize, Love More*

*This track is simply beautiful -- there's harmonium, effortless crooning, and a plethora of heart-wrenching suspensions.  If this song makes you feel anything, then I'm convinced you have a soul. If not, you are probably the very reason Sarah McLachlan does commercials with puppies.