The economic downturn has left luxury items collecting dust on the shelf. In fact, words like: opulent, lavish, plush, and sumptuous have all but disappeared from hotel, real estate, and fashion descriptions. Articles are written daily asking Americans to scale back on everything from make-up to groceries, and we’ve readily embraced the hottest trends that lead to saving money. Now, more than ever before, the fore-front of our collective consciousness is focused on sacrifice, but there is one place that has yet to be affected by this new passion for parsimony – indie soul. Russell Taylor’s sophomore album, CONFESSIONAL, has revived the true meaning of sacrifice, “to make sacred,” and given us sensuously starved listeners an intimate view of romantic relationships draped in musical decadence as in times past. Rt! draws on his Southern family roots and his Philly upbringing to create a collection of songs that speak directly to the heart while echoing sentiments of old Hollywood glamour intertwined with progressive yet classic soul. These songs reverberate with the pains of unrequited love as in Let Me Love You and the elation of that first touch in Hands 2 Myself. Russell compels you to listen, not just hear the jarringly honest lyrics that draw on our voyeuristic tendencies and enliven our innate need for sincere human connection; whether it is taboo as in Another Life or complicated as in Press Pause. Rt! has the educational pedigree and the street cred to bridge the chasm between the block and the yatch. He uses this unique understanding to remain true to his musical influences and disregards the pressure to please the pop music industry. Russell also infuses his work with an international flare that began with his early musical study in the UK. His musical CV is equally impressive as he has shared stages with some of our generation’s most respected musicians: Mary J. Blige, Musiq, Jill Scott, India Arie, Mint Condition, Tamia, Rahsaan Patterson, Jaguar, Eric Roberson, Lalah Hathaway and Omar. Therefore, it is no surprise that he continues to woo audiences from Paris to LA, where they swoon over his soulful voice, pristine good looks, seductive smile and genuinely affable personality. Luxury is not dead; it has just taken on a new appearance. It has morphed into a melodious delight and drenched itself in thoughtful truths. Rt! is a relevant artist unafraid to give us something authentically affluent, during a trying time of uncertainty. CONFESSIONAL is a sacred and essential gift. Open your ears and receive this blessing. -Maude Bond