Christine Varriale

How do you balance your academic and social life with your music career? Some parts are easy, and others are hard because it’s geographically separated. My band is based in New York; we rehearse there, and I record there. When I’m at school, there’s not much music work, but I’m writing a lot. The big thing that’s balancing is my social media. I’m supposed to be making TikToks every single day, but I don’t because I’m a person. You have to look good, and I don’t look good most days.

Nothing performing at The Sinclair on April 2, 2026. Photo by Miguel Gonzales It’s always a learning experience when you’re in between the generational crossfire of young and old shoegazers. The face of a sweet 35-year-old man lights up when he converses with an audience member 13 years younger than him, as he notices the young man’s bootlegged My Bloody Valentine shirt.

Liza Levy, President of Salt Lick Incubator. Photo by Hannah Sender Meet singer-songwriter Claire Ernst, New Jerseyan turned Tennessean. Claire’s ability to write upbeat, silly tracks as well as somber, vocally intense ballads is a testament to her artistic versatility and uniqueness. Before she took the stage, I talked to Claire about her new single and what’s to come on her next album. Claire Ernst by Hannah Sender Congratulations on your newest single. What inspired its sound and theme?