With his consistent appearance in trashy tabloids of late, John Clayton Mayer has all the attention of the paparazzi which is why i nearly forgot he was foremost a musician, not some actor. Released in November under the protective wing of Columbia Records, Battle Studies is Mayer's fourth studio album, which he also produced with fellow band member and drummer Steve Jordan. Together with Pino Palladino on bass, they make up the John Mayer Trio. Mayer's career pursuits have extended to designing, writing, even standup comedy though he's more notable for his articles in Esquire magazine.The verdict for Battle Studies was still largely a thumbs-up from the fans though many (including myself) found the album was lacking the stamp of Mayer's personality. Opening track "Heartbreak Warfare" is a sleeper hit, only minus the hit. However, following tune "All We Ever Do Is Say Goodbye" is redeeming though keep the tissues nearby; this one will yank at the ol' heartstrings. It carries on for awhile with the mode set on 'melancholic/sappy'. Another recovery is made with "Crossroads", which is also my choice song. "Crossroads" is slightly more upbeat and the manner with which the session pianist lays down the B3 Hammond organ is reminiscing of Stevie Wonder.
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