Jessamine

The Profile

Seattle-based 1990s quartet on the Kranky label, Jessamine fused psychedelic rock, analog electronics, kraut-like grooves and shoegaze textures. The lineup cited in reviews includes vocalist Dawn Smithson and guitarist Rex Ritter. They released a self-titled debut, The Long Arm of Coincidence, Don’t Stay Too Long, and the singles compilation Another Fictionalized History, before disbanding in 1998.

Per DeBaser reviews: American, Seattle-origin band on Kranky; disbanded in 1998. Members referenced include Dawn Smithson (vocals) and Rex Ritter (guitar). Post-band, Smithson released a solo album on Kranky; Ritter formed Fontanelle and collaborated with Sunn O))) and Ginnungagap.

Two DeBaser reviews paint Jessamine as an underrated 90s Seattle quartet on Kranky, blending psychedelia, analog electronics and kraut/shoegaze impulses. The self‑titled debut is praised for hypnotic textures but dinged for repetition; later work is hailed for balance and personality. Members cited include vocalist Dawn Smithson and guitarist Rex Ritter. The band disbanded in 1998.