If you happen to look at my previous columns, you might notice a single strand found throughout: John Mayer. I know that liking Mayer and his music is fairly commonplace these days, but since this is an opinionated column I’ll just say that I think my appreciation for Mayer extends beyond that of the average person. If you’ve listened to more than one of Mayer’s albums, it’s apparent that he enjoys experimenting with different sounds on each album. “Room For Squares,” Mayer’s first full-length album, and “Paradise Valley,” Mayer’s last album, were released 12 years apart and the differences are stark. “Room For Squares” brought us “Your Body Is A Wonderland,” “Neon” and “No Such Thing,” three classics in Mayer’s long collection of songs. These songs mark the early sound and stylings of Mayer.
As he was progressing as an artist, he was also changing as an individual. As this change occurs, his lyrics change from the exploration of himself to criticism of how he acted in the past. The guitar remains constant, producing pleasing sounds with the utmost ease and grace. Mayer’s newest album has been released, but only the first two waves. His creative new album, “The Search for Everything,” is being released in waves throughout the year and will eventually come together to form a complete album. The second wave is the perfect depiction of Mayer’s wide range of style and sound. Each track has undertones from one of Mayer’s previous albums. This ability to change molds is one of the defining characteristics of Mayer.
“Still Feel Like Your Man”=”Battle Studies”:
“Battle Studies” is one of Mayer’s more bluesy albums; check “Crossroads” for proof. “Still Feel Like Your Man” also plays into the same style and similar lyrical trajectory. The tracks off “Battle Studies” feel conversational and individualistic, almost as if each track was directed at a specific individual. “Still Feel Like Your Man” also has this vibe and feels as honest as “Battle Studies” about a failed relationship.
“Emoji of a Wave”=”Paradise Valley”:
This track and “Roll It On Home” both have country undertones. “Emoji of a Wave” delves into the same feelings that Mayer discusses in “Paradise Valley’s” “Waitin’ On The Day.” The track sounds like a sequel to “Waitin’ On The Day” in which Mayer discusses his feelings surrounding being a part from the person that he loves.
“Helpless”=”Heavier Things”:
The guitar in “Heavier Things” has a specific sound. The sound could be defined as funky rock. “Helpless” could only be compared to “Heavier Things.” It fits in perfectly with Mayer’s previous album in sound and theme. This song is also a reminder of the John Mayer Trio, the drummer and bassist from the trio are featured. This song feels like a return home for Mayer.
“Roll It On Home”=”Born and Raised”:
Mayer’s album “Born and Raised” is a love letter to Montana and the time he spent there. In a Rolling Stones article, Mayer talked about his desire to perform this song at one of his favorite Montana bars. The song has a country sound and you can envision the scene depicted in the song. Mayer sings of having to leave a bar after you’ve been there too long and could not find anyone to take home. Then, he says you can come back the next night and try again.
