Six albums. Seven Grammy awards. 16 years in the limelight. John Mayer’s music has never been a letdown. His sound evolves constantly throughout the years, never settling for what is simply comfortable. This includes his latest EP release, part two of his upcoming album – The Search for Everything: Wave Two.
1. Still Feel Like Your Man
Following the hit of Wave One, Still Feel Like Your Man is also an upbeat take on the heavy topic that is his breakup. Mayer discusses about being unable to let go of his former girlfriend and simply continue with his life. “I’d rather sit here on my own and be alone, babe,” he sings.
Like Moving On and Getting Over, the first song of Wave Two also has an underlying sadness that is only evident through the lyrics. This, though, is contrasted by the steady beat on the drums and the rhythm of the electric guitar. Since joining Dead & Company on their tour, Mayer has since frequently used ensemble guitars, dividing the attentions of the listeners between the two guitars and showcasing his skills as a guitarist.
2. Emoji of a Wave
John Mayer lyrics are like poetry. Truly understanding it on the first listen is nearly impossible. This, combined with the harp-like broken chords of the keyboard and acoustic guitar, creates the ultimate ballad of Wave Two.
Mayer compares his past relationship to (an emoji of) a wave, easily ending and uncontrollable. He acknowledges that this part of his life will soon come to pass, yet he still struggles to completely let go just yet. “Oh honey, oh honey, it’s just a wave, it’s just a wave, and I know when it comes, I just hold on until it’s gone.”
3. Helpless
The third track of Wave Two portrays Mayer’s softer take on elements of a classic rock & roll song. Unlike the first two tracks, Helpless focuses more on the musical elements rather than the lyrics. He sings about being unable to differentiate what is bad and good for him, always making “the same mistake [he] used to make before”.
Mayer begins the song with a rhythmic electric guitar introduction that is continued on throughout, only stopped when he moves on to a solo. A classic guitar solo song in any Mayer album.
4. Roll It on Home
Reminiscent of Born and Raised and Paradise Valley, Roll It on Home tends to seem more country than rock, due to the occasional use of the electric guitar to mimic the harmonica. This sound is encouraged with the steady drum beat and acoustic guitar in the background and embellished with the electric guitar solos. T
he simple country-like chords and easily singable tune allows for a greater emphasis on the lyrics. As the last track of Wave Two, it almost seems like the conclusion to a heartbroken Mayer. “Tomorrow’s another chance you won’t go it alone, if you roll it on home,” he sings. This song acts as an advice to himself that one night at the bar wouldn’t be able to bring him the kind of love that takes time to attain.
Wave Two is about a lot of things that Mayer is unable to do. But one thing he is always able to do is release good music.
