I originally read about Jessica Lea Mayfield’s new album, With Blasphemy So Heartfelt, over on HearYa. Oz’s story about a middle school friend of his that had died sort of stuck with me all day and I tossed the album into my cd player when I got home that afternoon. Here in the last few years I’ve reached this weird station in life where I am young, I feel young but at the same time I’ve had a few friends/acquaintances die of totally natural causes. It kind of makes you acknowledge your own mortality in a more personal way than I really care to. So, with that said, Oz’s story was something I could relate to and in turn the melancholy undertones of Jessica’s album really struck a chord with me.

With Blasphemy So Heartfelt is yet another album on the ever growing (and enjoyable) production tree of Dan Auerbach (The Black Keys). It was recorded over the course of two years at Dan’s home studio after she performed backing vocals on The Black Key’s track, “Things Ain’t Like They Used To Be”. Sonically the album is beautiful and passionate, while Jessica’s vocals really remind me of Mazzy Star. Occasionally her lyrical content gives away her youth (she’s only 19), but it’s not enough to turn anyone away. So, if you’re in the need for an album to be your soundtrack for some late night introspection, I’d suggest you give this one a look-see.

Jessica Lea Mayfield - Kiss Me Again
Jessica Lea Mayfield - We’ve Never Lied
Jessica Lea Mayfield - Call Me

Jessica Lea Mayfield’s Official Site, Jessica Lea Mayfield on myspace, Buy With Blasphemy So Heartfelt