Esteemed singer-songwriter and activist Allison Russell has returned once more (you’ll get that joke in a second) to release a second single off of her upcoming album The Returner (see, that was hilarious). Joined by her Rainbow Coalition vocal ensemble and the SistaStrings duo, “Stay Right Here” is a steady grooving, disco-inspired track whose genius lies in simplicity. The instrumentation is effectively minimal, allowing space for Russell’s vocals to shine through – and shine they do.
“Stay Right Here” follows up Russell’s last single, “The Returner,” providing a closer look at how her new full-length release will sound. Drawing inspiration from ‘70s-era greats while maintaining contemporary techniques, Russell exceeds the expectations of a modern artist creating retro-infused projects. In fact, she is able to do so while simultaneously incorporating messages of empowerment throughout every lyric. For instance, “Stay Right Here” is described by Russell herself as an ode to “resisting the siren songs of self-hatred, apathy & oblivion.” This resistance is well represented in the music video for the single (provided below), in which Russell sings and dances the night away, allowing nothing to come between herself and her passion.
Look forward to The Returner on September 8th, as well as Russell’s performance at the return (get it, because it’s returning?) of XPoNential Fest on September 24th. Tickets are available now at XPNFest.org.