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Review: Allison Russell in Indianapolis

By Larry Philpot on May 30, 2024

Allison Russell’s performance in Noblesville, Indiana, on May 28, 2024, as the opening act for Hozier, was a testament to her growing stature in the Americana and folk music scene. Her set at the Ruoff Music Center was a blend of soulful melodies, poignant lyrics, and a presence that captivated the audience from the first strum of her banjo.

File Photo: Allison Russell Live in concert in Noblesville, IN, on May 28, 2024. (Photo Credit: Larry Philpot / SoundstagePhotography.com)

Russell, a Canadian singer-songwriter, musician, and activist, has been a compelling figure in the music industry since her days with Po’ Girl and Birds of Chicago. Her solo career took flight with the release of “Outside Child” in 2021, an album that earned her a Grammy nomination and widespread acclaim. Her follow-up album, “The Returner,” released in September 2023, continued her trajectory of critical success, securing four Grammy nominations and winning Best American Roots Performance for the single “Eve Was Black” .

The Noblesville show highlighted Russell’s most popular songs, including the haunting “Nightflyer,” the introspective “The Returner,” and the Grammy-winning “Eve Was Black.” Her music, often a reflection of her personal journey and survival, resonates with authenticity and emotional depth.

Beyond her musical endeavors, Russell has also made her mark in film and television. She appeared in the documentary “Reclaiming History: Our Native Daughters” and contributed to the soundtrack of “For Love & Country,” a testament to her versatility and commitment to storytelling through various mediums.

Allison Russell’s rise in the music world is a narrative of resilience and talent. Her performance in Noblesville was not just an opening act but a showcase of an artist who has firmly established her voice and continues to enchant audiences with her lyrical prowess and musicality. As she continues to tour and share her music, Russell is undoubtedly an artist to watch and listen to, as her songs carry the power of transformation and healing. For those who have yet to experience her live, her shows are a must-attend, offering a glimpse into the soul of a true musical poet.