Mayhem cover

Mayhem

Imelda May · 2010

71 min · 21 tracks · rockabilly

A vibrant blend of rockabilly and blues, infused with Imelda May's dynamic vocals and a raw, energetic rhythm.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Psycho — This track showcases May's powerful vocal delivery combined with an infectious energy that captures the essence of rockabilly while appealing to modern sensibilities.
  • →
    Johnny Got a Boom Boom — Its catchy hook and upbeat tempo make it a standout, illustrating May's ability to weave classic influences into engaging contemporary music.
  • →
    Let Me Out — The song features an emotive narrative where May expresses themes of longing and desire through both poignant lyrics and a driving rhythm.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

50 /100
Foothills
Higher than 23% of albums we've rated

The album blends energetic rockabilly with blues influences, featuring a mix of originals and covers that showcase May's vocal dynamism.

What we noticed

  • The first half of the album features high-energy tracks that maintain a fast tempo, while the second half introduces slower ballads and covers.
  • Several songs incorporate call-and-response vocal patterns, enhancing the lively interaction between Imelda May and her backing band.
Composition 25% of the score
6/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
7/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
5/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
7/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
6/10

running order, pacing, length

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • dynamic journey with varied pacing
  • lively tracks for spirited moments
  • sing-along anthems with friends
  • cathartic energy release throughout
  • for upbeat gatherings

Maybe skip if you

  • prefer slow, introspective listening
  • seek consistent mood and pace

Where this album fits

Career context
Released in 2010, Mayhem was Imelda May's second studio album, following her debut Love Tattoo in 2008. At this point in her career, she was establishing herself as a prominent voice in the rockabilly revival scene, gaining critical acclaim and commercial success.
Stylistic neighbors
Duffy· Amy Winehouse· Laura Marling

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 Pulling the Rug 3:52
  • 2 Psycho 2:51
  • 3 Mayhem 2:45
  • 4 Kentish Town Waltz 4:50
  • 5 All for You 2:50
  • 6 Eternity 3:14
  • 7 Inside Out 3:26
  • 8 Proud and Humble 3:58
  • 9 Sneaky Freak 3:03
  • 10 Bury My Troubles 3:04
  • 11 Too Sad to Cry 4:29
  • 12 I’m Alive 3:51
  • 13 Let Me Out 3:20
  • 14 Tainted Love 2:45
  • 15 Johnny Got a Boom Boom 2:37
  • 16 Road Runner 3:03
  • 17 Gypsy 3:26
  • 18 Blues Calling 4:50
  • 19 Walking After Midnight 2:49
  • 20 Inside Out (remix) 3:13
  • 21 Proud and Humble (Steve Osborne mix) 3:16

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata