19/John Mayer/Born & Raised
The title of this album is "Born & Raised". It follows yet another interesting period of quotations gone wrong, well publicized flings, health issues, and deleted online distractions. He grew his hair out. Don Was co-produced this. There's a song here titled "Whiskey, Whiskey, Whiskey". That album cover. I know, I know, this album could not be more serious if it tried. But all cynicism aside, Born & Raised is an attempt by Mr. Mayer to take a step back, get around to living, and truly contemplate exactly where he stands now that he's pulled himself off the hotel floor. Born & Raised is John being John (a subject he knows best, yes), but with less pretense or overreaching yearn to please. At home in laid back Folk and Americana style flourishes, it's a calm, relaxed record. A conversation with himself that we're all privy to see from a man who knows he needs to "wise up", and is ready to do what it takes to make sure said plans go through. It's understated and comfortable with itself, like many a J. Mayer record before it. And if you're not careful, it may speak to you in places and prove itself to be just as therapeutic for you too.
KEY TRACKS: Queen of California/Born and Raised/If I Ever Get Around to Living
20/The Walkmen/Heaven & 21/Grizzly Bear/Shields
22/Beach House/Bloom
23/Lower Dens/Nootropics
24/Cat Power/Sun
25/Prinzhorn Dance School/Clay Class
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