John Mayer
Battle Studies
(Sony Records; 2009)
6.5/10
After what feels like a long wait, John Mayer is back with his fourth release, Battle Studies. The songs on the album showcase Mayer’s songwriting more than his guitar playing. Battle Studies sticks to the standard Mayer formula of blues-tinged soft-rock. The first track, “Heartbreak Warfare” is a great introduction to what John Mayer is known for, with simple lyrics sung in a cool smooth voice.
The album continues with “All We Ever Do Is Say Goodbye” and “Half of My Heart,” two strong tracks that lead into “Who Says,” the first single of the CD.
Battle Studies lacks the punch Continuum had, but most of the songs on this album fit together quite well. If you’re a Mayer fan, you’ll want to give it a listen.
Trial track: “Who Says”
