Tag Archives: Battle Studies

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Song of the Day #531: ‘Half of My Heart’ – John Mayer

Best Songs of 2009 – #8

John Mayer’s Continuum (2006) was a tough act to follow and he wasn’t quite up to the task with 2009’s Battle Studies. The album was solid and at times inspired but it didn’t break any ground.

Now, it’s probably not fair to expect artists to break new ground or constantly top themselves, and Battle Studies is certainly a solid effort, so don’t read this as a shot at Mayer. I just know what he’s capable of and I think on this album he was taking some plays off, so to speak.

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John Mayer – Battle Studies

I’m often intrigued by the group think exhibited by music and movie critics — not so much in their appraisal of a new work but in the angle from which they approach it. The most recent example I’ve noticed is in the commentary on John Mayer’s new album, Battle Studies, which I’ve been enjoying for about a week now.

Almost every review I’ve read has made a point to comment on the dichotomy between Mayer’s public image (including a popular Twitter account, stand-up comedy routines and frequent appearances on tabloid covers with the likes of Jennifer Aniston and Jessica Simpson) and the low-key, earnest music he records.

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