John Mayer Live at DTE Energy Music Theater on 7/29/10-Review

John Mayer played what appeared to be a sold-out show Wednesday night at DTE Energy Music Theater in Clarkson, MI. The hugely popular Train opened the show, and lead-vocalist Pat Monahan was just spectacular, demonstrating that he is far, far more talented than he appears on any one of the band’s five studio records. Furthermore, his lead guitarist, Jimmy Stafford, was truly remarkable, as was his drummer Scott Underwood. Perhaps the most memorable moment of their set was when Monahan, recalling that, when he was growing up, he could only afford lawn seats, walked up DTE’s numerous steps and traced the exterior of the pavilion seating area, giving those on the lawn an unrivaled view, all while singing the simply beautiful track, “Marry Me.”

Then it was Mayer’s turn, who wore a black wife beater, dark gray capris, and a folded bandana under his bangs. He was accompanied by a large band, which included the ever-brilliant David Ryan Harris on guitar and backing vocals as well as the incredibly talented Robbie McIntosh on guitar. Also present were Charlie Wilson on keyboards, Sean Hurley on bass guitar, Keith Carlock on drums and percussion, and Bob Reynolds, who brought the crowd to its feet with his saxophone. 

Mayer started the set off with the infectious “Vultures”, wasting no time in demonstrating his talents as a guitarist. Mayer’s set, which included numerous tracks from both his “Continuum” album as well as his newest record, “Battle Studies”, more than revealed Mayer’s brilliance as a live performer. His fluid combination of rock and blues guitar is spectacular, and even more so live. Mayer’s timing is impeccable, and he’s aware enough of his band to know when he can embellish. Revealing his versatility, Mayer played a flawless cover of Bill Withers’ “Ain’t No Sunshine”, which also included several lines of “Wrapped Around Your Finger” by The Police. 

One of the most remarkable moments of the night came when he played a version of “Do You Know Me” that was over eight minutes in length, even though, on the “Battle Studies” record, it’s just two minutes and thirty seconds long, and, during which, he gave Reynolds the opportunity to highlight his uncanny talent on the saxophone while Mayer seamlessly blended in a ukulele. Furthermore, Mayer revealed his impressive ability to play harmonica on “War of My Life”, a moving track that Mayer respectfully dedicated to those people in the audience who had a hard time facing each day. 

If someone were to ask me what I believe to be my favorite part of the night, I would have to say it was when Mayer talked. Now, if you know the controversy behind Mayer, you might be anticipating some kind of off-color remark (which, more often than not, are slanted and taken entirely out of context, but I digress). But here’s the thing: Mayer showed his ‘human’ side this evening. He talked about happiness, and how material possessions don’t mean anything if you can’t truly say you’re enjoying your life; he stated that, although you may never have as big of a house as the guy down the street, at least your house won’t become foreclosed on. Then he went on to thank the audience for still singing along despite the fact that some of them may not have had jobs, and letting the audience know, sincerely, that he appreciated them being there. And he said all of this with more authenticity and honesty than I can adequately relate. Trust me, I’ll be the first to admit when someone’s being insincere or arrogant. And Mayer certainly wasn’t. 

Perhaps the most moving, and heartfelt, moment of the night was the show’s final song, “Edge of Desire”. Mayer began with an incredible intro that isn’t included on the studio version, and, if I’m being entirely honest, I had mist in my eyes, and I’m certain I wasn’t the only one. Let’s be clear here: I see shows quite often, usually about two or three a month, and oftentimes by brilliant, brilliant musicians. I can honestly say that this is the only time that I have ever had that happen at a show. It was that good. And that real. And that heartfelt. Throughout the rest of the song, Mayer just played and sang his heart out. As he left the stage, it was more than apparent that he appreciated the unending support of the crowd, the majority of which stood for the entirety of his over-two-hours set.

Overall, the show was fantastic, and undoubtedly one of the best I’ve ever seen. Mayer and his band’s musicianship was flawless, and he was more than willing to let them showcase their talents on numerous occasions. Additionally, Mayer’s ability to articulate his feelings and thoughts this evening revealed far more than just the ideas of rockstar: they demonstrated his humanity. I’ll be honest: I’ve admired Mayer as a musician for years, but the jury was still out as to whether or not I admired him as a person. After tonight, I can truly say that I do.