Grammy-winning musician Allison Russell has released her third studio album, In The Hour of Chaos. The Montreal-born, Nashville-based artist issued the record this summer, according to the Vancouver Sun, as wars raged, forests burned, Canada faced a trade war with the U.S. and stormy weather threatened Canada Day events.

What is on the new album?

Russell's third full-length follows her 2021 solo debut, Outside Child, and her starring role on Broadway in Hadestown. The new record's first single, Cold April, arrived in the spring and features guests Kara Jackson, Denitia and the Explore! Pop Choir, whose members include Russell's daughter Ida.

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The upbeat track addresses sadness with a smile. In the Vancouver Sun's account, Russell sings: "Sometimes to grow/ You break first."

How did Russell build her career?

Before her solo work, Russell spent years in a series of Canadian and roots-music groups:

  • The Vancouver Celtic crew Fear of Drinking
  • Po'Girl, with former Be Good Tanyas guitarist Trish Klein
  • Birds of Chicago
  • Our Native Daughters, with Rhiannon Giddens, Leyla McCalla and Amythyst Kiah

Her solo debut chronicled childhood abuse by her adoptive father; he was sentenced to three years in jail, according to the Vancouver Sun. Russell has supported the National Children's Alliance and performed with Sarah McLachlan at the 2026 Juno Awards tribute to Joni Mitchell.

Where can fans see her perform?

Russell has been touring behind the album. She also recorded a cover of The Tragically Hip's "Wheat Kings" for a cast album tied to the musical It's a Good Life If You Don't Weaken, saying of the band that "their legacy is living and growing." An upcoming date listed by ticketing site Nightout is set for The UC Theatre in Berkeley, California, on November 15, 2026, with resale prices reported up about 45 percent over 38 days.

FAQ

What is Allison Russell's new album called?

It is In The Hour of Chaos, her third full-length studio album, released this summer.

Has Russell won a Grammy?

Yes. Coverage of the album and her recent performances describes her as a Grammy-winning artist.