Mayer Hawthorne- Where Does This Door Go

Mayer Hawthorne- Where Does This Door Go

Released July 2013

Mayer Hawthorne is known for mixing modern pop and hip hop with 70's funk and R&B, and even Motown. Earlier albums feel like remixes of radio songs from the 60's. Where Does This Door Go feels like that too, but much more of the now. Collaborations with Cee-Lo and Pharrell Williams help make the album feel modern and fresh, but it still manages to remind me of music my parents listened to when I was a kid.

Mayer's voice has improved with this album- stronger and more confident. He shines where he struggled in previous albums. His falsetto is up there with JT's, and y'all know I don't say that about just anyone.

The opener- "Back Seat Lover"- is strong and simple, upbeat and easy, and makes you want to boogie! It's a hell of an introduction into what proves to be a smooth, laid-back collection of songs. There are a few surprises though- "The Only One" sounds a little bit like Maroon 5 starting out, but it turns into straight-up hip-hop before you know what's happening. "Crime" with Kendrick Lamar is seductive and soulful. Allie Jones stands out for me as well. It's one of those songs you sort of hate to love. 

Check it out- you won't be disappointed. This guy sings sweetly and then throws in f-bombs when you least expect them. 

Sounds like: Steely Dan in the 70's, Hall & Oates in the early 80's, Justin Timberlake, N.E.R.D, and on and on and on.

Earlier track to check out: The Walk is one of my favorites. 

That's it for this month! Can't wait to read about what y'all have been listening to!

-AK