Allison Russell can do it all. The Canadian singer, songwriter, multi-instrumentalist and activist made the River stage her own. Showcasing a plethora of songs from her freshly released record The Returner, Russell and her soulfully skilled backing band spread love and harmony to the rain soaked XPoNential festival goers.
Playing an exceptional five-song set, the Americana style off-beat rhythm of “Eve Was Black” drove an energetic pulse throughout the crowd. Along with a gleaming medley of banjo, guitar, and bass, the striking harmonies of Russell and her fellow bandmates resonated through the windy air. Russell was not going to let the weather rain on her parade. Brimming with life, the country singer bounced around the soaking stage. Holding a clarinet in hand while breaking in and out of vigorous solos was endlessly engaging.
The rain may have persevered throughout the set, but so did Russell. After captivating the crowd with her soulful folk melodies, she invited us to participate in a call and response to her song “Demons” to close out her set. Her sweetly raspy voice counteracting the audience’s chants made for an ultimate finale.