Signed to 4AD in the 1980s, Throwing Muses are a significant chapter in the genesis of the hugely influential label - and indie music in general. Pushing an alternative rock and punk edge, Hersh stepped forward as a forward thinking female vocalist exploring mental chaos, rage and aggression in order to push against the stereotypical vulnerability of her contemporaries. In person Hersh is every bit a charismatic as her legacy dictates, a shy character with a lyrical fire burning within.

This week sees the release of Purgatory/Paradise  - a book and CD release combination that enables readers to truly dive into the depths of Hersh's deeply personal poetry. 'Sunray Venus', a future seminal Throwing Muses track, comes complete with its own chapter in the book. In an exclusive session Kristin performed the track for Gigwise and told us the story behind its inception - and talks 'the language of music'. 

Watch Kristin Hersh perform 'Sunray Venus' for Gigwise in the video above