If your looking for some easy listening for the Holiday Season, John Mayer’s new album, Battle Studies, which was released on November 17,  is the perfect choice; whether it is a gift to yourself or for a friend.  John Mayer has gone beyond our expectations once again with Battle Studies, which is a step up from his typical sound.

While still keeping his mellow charm, the clearly talented singer brings in different types of vocals in his music like his songs Crossroads and Do You Know Me, which have more of a jazzy sound to them.

Half of My Heart, featuring Taylor Swift is one of the more popular songs, although Swift’s voice is hard to hear over Mayer’s strong baritone.

Some argue that Mayer’s the album is too serious. In a review by Rolling Stone’s Jody Rosen, she comments that “[Mayer's] solemnity is suffocating. On “Heartbreak Warfare,” Mayer delivers U2-style guitar and strained war metaphors: “Clouds of sulfur in the air/Bombs are falling everywhere.”

However, some songs bring in the old style we all love. Who Says, a carefree song off of his more mature album, shows Mayer’s sense of humor and ability to lighten the mood.

Battle Studies is an appropriate album for anyone who enjoys listening to John Mayer’s mellow, calming music, although those who are susceptible to becoming depressed should beware of the solemn grip it holds.