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Biography
Jessica Lea Mayfield was a touring musician by the time she was eight years old. Born to a musical family who all performed together as the bluegrass band One Way Rider, she joined them on the road before learning to play the guitar at the age of eleven and writing her own songs on the instrument. She cut her performing teeth away from her family’s band by accompanying her brother while he performed at open mic nights, and by the time she was fifteen she had recorded her debut E.P “White Lies”. Only 100 copies of the record were pressed but one of them fell into the hands of Dan Auerbach, lead singer and guitarist of the Blues-rock duo The Black Keys.
He was transfixed by what he heard and offered to let her record her debut album in his Akron, Ohio home studio. They worked on the record on and off for the next two years, during which time Mayfield even featured on The Black Keys’ 2008 album “Attack And Release” which was being recorded at roughly the same time. “With Blasphemy So Heartfelt” was released on the 16th of September 2008 on the indie label Thirty Tigers. Even though it was a relatively low-key release, the reviews of the record were glowing, even netting 8.2 out of 10 on the famously icy Pitchfork.com.
Ever since then she’s continued to release acclaimed records, working with Auerbach again on his debut solo album “Keep It Hid” in 2009 and has opened for everyone from Band Of Horses to Ray LaMontagne to Ryan Adams. In 2014 she blossomed from dark hued country to noisy alternative rock, and continues to go from strength to strength with every song written. Highly recommended.
Live reviews
At a Jessica Lea Mayfield concert the whole crowd is hushed and the attention is focused right on Jessica Lea Mayfield. This is the kind of power that Jessica Lea Mayfield possesses when performing her music live. Her songwriting capabilities are so genuine that it is impossible to turn away. When I first saw her perform opening up for the Black Keys she was the only person on stage and had no backing band. It was just herself and her acoustic guitar, but the vibe she conveyed was very raw and sincere, and it was impressive to see that such a minimalist performance could have such a big impact on the audience. Currently she seems to be expanding her sound by adding a backing band consisting of a drummer, an electric guitarist, a bass player, and a keyboardist. She has also made her music sound more dynamic with her use of electric guitar playing as well.
Her performances still convey a minimalist and eerie kind of vibe, which is presented in the form of country/rock music. Her singing style is very withdrawn and dark, but this enhances the overall atmosphere of her music. Many other notable musicians have recognized her great talents, including Dr. Dog, The Black Keys, and The Avett Brothers.
Its always interesting to see what direction Jessica Lea Mayfield will follow, whether she sticks to her traditional roots of old-timey folk/country music or whether she progresses into a more electric sound. Whatever direction she chooses to follow, it will be of no surprise that she will handle her music perfectly in a live setting.
wjmcc
After seeing Jessica solo two years ago at the Fremont Abby, the Tractor was a big change. The crowd was wonderfully, and surprisingly diverse. She is so personable, she reluctantly admitted to waking in Canada, eating at McDonalds, and buying stuffed animals at Walmart. She then chastised the crowd for applauding.
She then went on to play almost every track from her newest album, which is about surviving, escaping, and moving past domestic violence. Not that it matters, but it was well before all recent, and important movements. Yes, a few crowd pleasers happened, but this wasn't a pandering show, it was a message.
Jessica played hard and well, then invited the audience to show her their dog pics, get a selfie, or a hug. And then she actually just set down her guitar, jumped off stage, and walked back to the merch table.
elizabeth-geist
Fantastic show! Jessica played solo acoustic and -- being at Eddie's Attic -- it was an especially intimate show. She noted the intimacy herself as she maintained a nice banter with the audience. She played songs from all her albums (except for the Elliot Smith collab. with Seth Avett), and even tried out some new material. She was especially engaging in the merch room after the show! Super time!!
numacs4
Such a great band!
Jessica sounds even better live
Than on her recordings. True musicianship as well. I really enjoyed the opening band as well, SLUGS. The second band was ok. Loved every minute of the show.
bmdartz
