John Mayer’s new album “Paradise Valley” pleases the ear with a variety of instruments and an updated jazz and southern rock sound, reminiscent of early rock bands such as the Eagles, the Allman Brothers, and John Mellencamp.
Mayer continues his relaxing sound, reflected not only in the sound of his guitar but in the lyrics of his songs. The lyrics in this album focus on past lives and past loves.
“You and me have been catchin’ on like a wildfire,” he sings on the album’s opening track, “Wildfire.” It makes you want to sing along, even if you aren’t a fan of the country sound.
“Who You Love,” the sixth song on the album, not only features Katy Perry but mirrors the themes of free love and equality in the hit song “One Love” by Macklemore and Ryan Lewis. Yet while the album has plenty to like, John Mayer doesn’t have much variety in his voice, and I grew bored quickly listening to the album.
Sometimes it seems like Mayer is trying too hard to have a country sound, especially in the song “Badge and Gun.” Overall, though, “Paradise Valley” deserves a listen and is great background music while relaxing before bed or reading for class.
