Allison Russell Pleads For Connection On New LP

Singer-songwriter Allison Russell has announced the release of her third studio album, In The Hour of Chaos, which is scheduled to arrive on July 10, 2026, via Fantasy Records.

The upcoming project follows the breakthrough success of her previous album, The Returner, released two years prior. According to reporting from SPIN, the new record continues Russell’s exploration of communal and expansive soundscapes.

The album’s first single, Cold April, features collaborations with Kara Jackson and Denitia, as well as vocals from the Explore! Pop Choir, which includes Russell’s daughter, Ida.

Things are rough. Things have been rough before. Cold April is not laying out the grim facts of the moment. Cold April asks if we can let the music itself restore and recharge us. The act of singing with my sisters, Kara Jackson and Denitia, is a balm for my soul, and a wind at my back to keep on.

Allison Russell

Russell describes the overarching theme of In The Hour of Chaos as a fervent plea for connection in this time of alienation, isolation and dread. She stated that the record is intended to make the listener feel good, noting that in the current climate, feeling good is a radical act.

The album was produced by Russell in collaboration with Dim Star. It emphasizes a collaborative ethos, featuring a variety of guest artists including:

• Norah Jones
• Joy Oladokun
• Brittney Spencer
• Ruby Amanfu
• Devon Gilfillian

Russell views these contributions not as standard features, but as a little capsule of humans being fully human and fully present.

The announcement marks a continuation of a rapid ascent within contemporary roots music. Russell first gained significant critical acclaim with her 2021 autobiographical album Outside Child, which addressed childhood trauma. She later shifted her sonic palette on The Returner to incorporate elements of soul, funk, and collective uplift.

To date, Russell has earned eight Grammy nominations and one win, establishing herself as a prominent figure in folk and Americana circles.

Beyond her studio recordings, Russell has maintained a high-profile presence in theater and touring. She recently completed her second tenure playing the role of Persephone in the Broadway production of Hadestown.

she served as an opening act for Hozier during the Unreal Unearth tour. Her work during this period, specifically the duet Wildflower and the track Barley, resulted in her first appearance on the Billboard Hot 100.

In early 2026, Russell performed a tribute to Joni Mitchell alongside Sarah McLachlan at the Juno Awards. This collaboration will extend into a summer tour with McLachlan, which is set to begin on July 1, 2026, in Franklin, Tennessee.