[3] Artists including Minnie Riperton, Eva Cassidy, Chaka Khan and Jill Scott are listed by Russell as influences.

In 2005, her debut studio album My Favourite Letters was recorded for Tru Thoughts, created by Russell with co-writer, producer, guitarist and musical friend Alex Cowan (a.k.a.

[6] Her third release, Under the Munka Moon II (Tru Thoughts) in 2006 compiled her most recent collaborations, remixes, and cover versions including an interpretation of the White Stripes' "Seven Nation Army".

[7] Russell and TM Juke toured together with chosen sidemen, performing in the UK, Europe, Australia, the United States and elsewhere.

[8][9] The releases were supported by European and UK tour dates, that continued in 2010 throughout Europe, including playing a stripped back show at London's Union Chapel.