Johannes Mayer is a Stockholm-based, English-singing German and judging by his press release, his label don't quite know who to pitch his latest album at. Should they namedrop wistful dead Brits like Nick Drake and John Martyn or make a bid for to new, less gloomy, generation of Americana fans?
The one name who is not mentioned is Chris Martin but , as on 2012's Pale Morning Light, the Coldplay similarities are hard to avoid, especially on Pickpocket and White Moon.
Like Martin, Mayer favours blandly optimistic songs which affirm that, while all that glistens is not gold, happiness is always achievable.
Seeking strength from within (The Inner) there is a faith in the notion that you can start anew (see also Change Of Scenery). On the single Carry he is ready to pledge support ("I'll be there to pick you every time") to a friend in need.
|
This is Mayer's fourth album and, with a specially recruited three man backing band, it is more pop-orientated than his previous releases, although you can still hear his folk roots,.
The strong melodies are mainly bright and upbeat but the album closes with two slower, longer and more meditative songs - Leave No Trace and Telling Stories. These leave you thinking the album could have gone in a completely different. and probably more interesting, introspective direction.
The Late Call’s website
|