Jessie Murph’s newest album cover delivers a penetrating gaze from the artist and her teased bouffant sits like a crown. The style foretells what listeners can expect from the country twang that threads through the artist’s work and newest album, Sex Hysteria. The album opens with an emotionally charged “Gucci Mane” bringing an underlying grit and background voices that resemble a choir. References to multiple genres continue, like pop brought through downtempo beats in “1965” which openly yearns for a classic type of love. The world created in this song’s music video is tied to the artist’s newly released short film, “Sex Hysteria The End.”

V has an exclusive first look at the film and reflections from Murph.

Directed by Logan Rice, the 10-minute film delves into Murph’s world, and particularly, the childhood that shaped her creative work. References to this past live in the song’s lyrics and other early portions of the album, and they explore early trauma and familial relationships. 

“This album film is a visual representation of the moments throughout my life that have shaped me into the person I am today,” shares Murph. “It is the story of love and consequence. It is about realizing that growing doesn’t necessarily mean healing but instead means breaking cycles, shifting perspectives, and learning that neither pain nor comfort are manifestations of love.  I hope that anybody watching this who has ever been afraid to break out of innate patterns will feel seen and know that they are not alone in that darkness. Even more than that, I hope people feel inspired to find the courage to leap into the light.”

Murph’s style references the past—both visually and audibly—but with a clear contemporary sound. At times, she embraces pin-up aesthetics. With country, soul, and pop influences, Murph’s work has an undeniable Amy Winehouse feel, but with her own personal spin and storytelling. Sex Hysteria is the artist’s sophomore album and debuted at #8 on the Billboard 200 chart.  “Sex Hysteria The End” will be available to stream on YouTube, but is available here first. Her album is available to listen to on all major streaming platforms.