Events

[ROCK] Say what you will about John Mayer, but he’s already having the last laugh. His role in the current incarnation of what was once the Grateful Dead—Dead and Co.—isn’t news, but it comes as a sign of respect from revered fellow musicians. Two-plus years ago when that project was getting off the ground, Mayer was near-unanimously voted Least Likely to Succeed by an army of radio-pop-eschewing granola lovers who felt as though their precious holy grail was being encroached upon. What is news, however, is that his gig alongside Bob Weir and Co. is a roaring success, and it’s has changed him. In an interview with Rolling Stone earlier this summer, he spoke about letting go of the ways in which he’d become accustomed to measuring success (chart positions, etc) and developing the team-player mentality that informs something like being in such an improv-heavy band. He described himself as a ‘pig in shit,’ while acknowledging how unlikely a turn of events his current career trajectory truly is. It’s a reminder to the rest of the world that Mayer is a blues guitarist, first and foremost, even though that may not be what made him famous. For the uninitiated, he tried to tell us: after two huge selling records (and while pop fans waited for another) he chose to release Try!, which is essentially a live electric blues album performed in a trio format. It was confusing information for the masses, but it was nominated for a Grammy, if that’s worth anything anymore. A dozen years on, Mayer’s newfound blend of understated confidence and creative earnestness comes through very clearly on The Search for Everything, which brings him to Darien Lake on Sunday, August 27 for a generous show that’s broken into three segments: solo acoustic, full-band electric, and blues trio. Originally released as two EP’s but now available as one solid piece, a laid back, breezy, so-cal-pop vibe permeates the new set, and Mayer is unapologetically himself—goofy and affable, but also stealthy and skilled. It sounds like the work of a man finding his way into middle age (Mayer is nearing 40), now more comfortable in his own skin but without having lost his ability to have a good time. In spots, it’s serious. But it doesn’t take itself too seriously. And respect keeps coming from unexpected places. Recently invited to teach a Berklee College of Music songwriting master class to a lucky half dozen students (in front of an auditorium of 500), he revealed that he often uses a whiteboard to write and that songwriting, to him, feels like solving a crossword puzzle. And while Katy Perry has no doubt had her share of men, she publicly branded Mayer with the unique distinction of being named the best lover she’s ever had. Bon appétit, beh-beh, indeed.  Mayer is a man full of surprises, apparently. As the saying goes, “Walk softly…” Dawes opens.