Arguably better known for his string of high–profile girlfriends than his songs, John Mayer’s seventh album comes after a hiatus during which he reasessed his attitude towards life and music. While it might disappoint longtime fans, the record marks a significant step forward in creative terms.
Named after a part of the Montana Prairie where he now lives, it’s surprisingly low-key, offering a blend of folk, country and blues with a modern Americana sheen. Produced by Don Was, and aided by a small group of musicians that includes regular Rolling Stones keyboardist Chuck Leavell and top Nashville steel guitar-player, Paul Franklin, it could have been made in 1973, at the height of the country-rock boom (the cover shot with Mayer dressed in cowboy regalia is reminiscent of The Eagles’ Desperado).
Opener ‘Wildfire’ is a mid-tempo romp with tasty bottleneck guitar licks, a memorable tune and a sonic texture that recalls Dylan’s Nashville Skyline. Even more low-key and plaintive, ‘Dear Marie’ is an engaging love song, while the melodic ‘Paper Doll’ has pop elements. A decent version of the recently deceased J J Cale’s slow-boogie ‘Call Me The Breeze’ fits in nicely, while somewhat incongruously hip hop stylist Frank Ocean lends vocals on a reprised version of the opening track ‘Wildfire’ – again echoing Desperado. Elsewhere, Mayer’s recent companion Katy Perry joins him on the gentle ballad ‘Who You Love’. The fine ‘You’re No One ‘Till Somebody Loves You’ recalls the Crosby Stills Nash and Young anthem, ‘Teach Your Children’.
Nothing earth-shattering here. Just really good music.

Keytrack: 'Wildfire'