What makes The Search for Everything: Wave Two by John Mayer notable?

This album received positive reviews from critics and marked Mayer's return to form after several years of mixed responses to previous albums. It peaked at number 2 on the Billboard 200, further solidifying his status in contemporary music and demonstrating his ability to evolve while maintaining a loyal fanbase. Released in January 2017, this EP is the second installment of John Mayer's 'The Search for Everything' project, following his first wave in April 2017. At this point in his career, Mayer was experiencing a creative resurgence after a hiatus, showcasing his growth as both a guitarist and songwriter.

How many songs are on The Search for Everything: Wave Two?

The Search for Everything: Wave Two has 4 tracks, running approximately 15 minutes.

The Search for Everything: Wave Two

John Mayer · 2017

15 min · 4 tracks · alternative rock

A blend of introspective lyrics and melodic hooks, merging soft rock with bluesy undertones and reflective storytelling.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Still Feel Like Your Man — This track stands out for its groovy bassline and exploration of lingering feelings post-breakup, revealing Mayer's knack for blending personal narrative with catchy melodies.
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Emoji of a Wave — With its playful title and laid-back vibe, this song captures a sense of carefree nostalgia while showcasing Mayer's lyrical wit and modern sensibility.
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Helpless — This track features emotive guitar work and heartfelt lyrics that delve into vulnerability, highlighting Mayer's skill at conveying complex emotions through music.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

58 /100

Treeline

Higher than 49% of albums we've rated

The EP showcases strong songwriting and cohesive themes, though it doesn't break new ground in Mayer's style.

What we noticed

The first track features a steady groove with a prominent bass line, while the second track shifts to a more laid-back, breezy feel with layered guitar melodies.
Each song maintains a consistent mid-tempo pace, with the final track introducing a slight increase in energy and instrumentation.
The lyrics across the EP focus on personal reflection and relationships, often employing metaphorical language that invites deeper interpretation.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 6/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 7/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 8/10

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Deep Cut — A solid entry in Mayer's catalog that doesn't serve as a primary milestone.
Themes: post-breakup reflection· emotive guitar storytelling
Career context: Released in January 2017, this EP is the second installment of John Mayer's 'The Search for Everything' project, following his first wave in April 2017. At this point in his career, Mayer was experiencing a creative resurgence after a hiatus, showcasing his growth as both a guitarist and songwriter.
Stylistic neighbors: Jason Mraz· Jack Johnson· Ben Harper