John Mayer is obviously going through a “Backless” phase. In 1979, Eric Clapton released an album called “Backless” which shifted him from the guitar hero (“God,” if you will) to the more laidback singer/songwriter, causing a universal frown from six-string enthusiasts everywhere. With the release of “Battle Studies,” Mayer treads a similar path with a collection of songs that focus on melody over fretwork.
If the thought of a more pop-oriented angle leaves a bad taste in your mouth, this probably isn’t the Mayer album for you. One foot is firmly planted in the adult contemporary genre, especially when pop princess Taylor Swift provides background vocals on “Half of My Heart.” It’s not a bad song by any means, just a bit light for a young guy that’s played alongside artists like B.B. King and Slowhand himself.
“Who Says,” the next single from “Battle Studies,” makes an impassioned plea for freedom in everyday life. Lyrically, pleading to be shielded from the ever present paparazzi hits the mark, but pushing his personal pot-head agenda wears a bit thin. “Who says I can’t get stoned?/ Turn off the lights and the telephone/ Me and my house alone.” Overall, the song works well as an acoustic ballad despite the loopy lyrics.
Tracks like “Heartbreak Warfare” and “Assassin” are lively but more understated than much of Mayer’s earlier work. Even his stripped-down version of Clapton’s trademark “Crossroads” takes a big left turn from what one might expect.
“Battle Studies” concludes with “Friends Lovers or Nothing,” a lengthy track full of upbeat piano and a big Paul McCartney-esque singalong climax. Think “Hey Jude” brought forward 40 years.
It may be hard to criticize a guy who dates some of the hottest women on the planet, plays the guitar like there’s no tomorrow and has a bank account bigger than some African nations. But if you consider the new Mayer CD to be just a side trip and not a permanent direction, “Battle Studies” is still worth checking out. It’s the kind of CD that may not hit home on the first spin, but like a lot great music, it takes a few listens until the real appeal sinks in.
Rating: W W W 1/2
