John Mayer puts out a new album with brave statements
By: Megan Ryan
Issue date: 11/20/09 Section: Features
If you've heard his single "Who Says" on the radio or even if you've just read the back of the new album cover, you may think John Mayer is singing about violence, war and drugs, but that is not the case. The truth is John Mayer makes some brave statements in his songs including his newest popular line, "who says you can't get stoned?" However, there is a deeper meaning to his songs proving you should not judge John Mayer by a cover or a title.
That being said, Mayer should not be judged by his early days of singing "Your Body is a Wonderland" either. He's grown into a different musician-he reveals more of his true musical taste with each album. It seems his first album and perhaps the second were produced mainly to gain popularity and a large audience. Mayer has since become more comfortable in his own skin with the release of "Continuum" and his most recent album, "Battle Studies." His "pop" music has turned into more soft rock and blues-and the change has been for the better.
It is obvious Mayer cares about his music, especially with the new genres he's falling into. His lyrics are carefully constructed and carry more weight than just words compiled poetically. Rather than wondering if "Who Says" is just about getting high, try viewing it as being about an individual's choice to do what they want. There is a reason behind his rhyme, which attracts listeners and devoted fans.
John Mayer has a cover of Eric Clapton's "Crossroads" on the new album. The cover isn't as good as some of the other covers he's done, and it doesn't seem to flow with the rest of the album. The song seems to fit better with those from "Try!," the John Mayer Trio album. On the other hand, "Half of my Heart," featuring Taylor Swift turned out to fit well in his line-up. "Heartbreak Warfare," the first song on the album, sets the tone for the rest of the songs, in meaning and style. Like the first page of a good novel, it will leave you wanting more, and you'll be glad to know there are 10 songs that follow.
The guitar playing is impressive, which has been true for most of Mayer's career and as it is matched with his distinct voice, the music is a true treat for the ears and the soul. It's definitely not dance party music, but it is perfect for studying, car rides and just plain listening.
Overall, the CD is a terrific buy and is destined to attract a wide array of listeners. The primary downside of the album is the high chance that it will distract buyers from listening to anything else for a very long time.
4 out of 4 gig 'ems
Megan Ryan is a junior English major.
That being said, Mayer should not be judged by his early days of singing "Your Body is a Wonderland" either. He's grown into a different musician-he reveals more of his true musical taste with each album. It seems his first album and perhaps the second were produced mainly to gain popularity and a large audience. Mayer has since become more comfortable in his own skin with the release of "Continuum" and his most recent album, "Battle Studies." His "pop" music has turned into more soft rock and blues-and the change has been for the better.
It is obvious Mayer cares about his music, especially with the new genres he's falling into. His lyrics are carefully constructed and carry more weight than just words compiled poetically. Rather than wondering if "Who Says" is just about getting high, try viewing it as being about an individual's choice to do what they want. There is a reason behind his rhyme, which attracts listeners and devoted fans.
John Mayer has a cover of Eric Clapton's "Crossroads" on the new album. The cover isn't as good as some of the other covers he's done, and it doesn't seem to flow with the rest of the album. The song seems to fit better with those from "Try!," the John Mayer Trio album. On the other hand, "Half of my Heart," featuring Taylor Swift turned out to fit well in his line-up. "Heartbreak Warfare," the first song on the album, sets the tone for the rest of the songs, in meaning and style. Like the first page of a good novel, it will leave you wanting more, and you'll be glad to know there are 10 songs that follow.
The guitar playing is impressive, which has been true for most of Mayer's career and as it is matched with his distinct voice, the music is a true treat for the ears and the soul. It's definitely not dance party music, but it is perfect for studying, car rides and just plain listening.
Overall, the CD is a terrific buy and is destined to attract a wide array of listeners. The primary downside of the album is the high chance that it will distract buyers from listening to anything else for a very long time.
4 out of 4 gig 'ems
Megan Ryan is a junior English major.
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