Clearly influenced by 1970s Motown, this Brighton, UK blue-eyed neo-soul singer might be one of the greatest discoveries in the genre for the year of 2009. She is touring in support of her U.S. debut entitled “Pot of Gold” (Six Degrees)—the main single, “Got The Hunger,” has a catchy horn arrangement that pays homage to Arif Mardin’s work while looking into the future. According to her Web site, her primary influences are “golden voices such as Minnie Ripperton, Eva Cassidy, Stevie Wonder, Chaka Khan, Aretha Franklin.” Russell has a firm, assured voice that communicates the music—which she writes by herself—with the poignancy of someone who has been around for years. New fans are advised to take advantage of the fact that she is still pretty unknown on this side of the pond—who knows how big she will be next time around—when the tickets will surely go for premium prices. (Ernest Barteldes)
March13 at Schubas, 3159 N. Southport, (773)525-2508, at 10:30pm. $14.
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