Such a long time since anyone has posted here. I read your site a few months ago and did not join then. I am a very big fan of both performers. I've seen Jonny Lang in concert seven times this year and never before that because I discovered him on Eric Clapton's Crossroads Guitar Festival double DVD album. I was absolutely amazed at how this person I'd never seen or heard of before seemed to let the depths of his soul and emotion drive his singing and guitar playing, still am. He's phenomenal. I'd bought that DVD album last Christmas just to see John Mayer play, did that, and discovered Jonny. My life hasn't been the same ever since. One month after buying the DVD, I saw an ad announcing that Jonny would perform within 100 miles of where I live. Even though I only got a back row seat for that concert, I was completely blown away by the intense, passionate way he sang and played and with such range. The last time I saw him was October 1--the best concert to date--unbelievable crafting of songs, moment by moment. Though he started out at age 15 singing and playing the blues, he has gradually evolved toward gospel type--subtle, however--music. He says he'll have an album out in February--or perhaps March.
I found John Mayer three years ago through a friend. I've only seen him four times in all that time. Very exciting performer--much more talented than any of his albums reveal. In his concerts one is treated to plenty of verbal wit and imaginative guitar improvs. He, too, has evolved from album to album. You may or may not know that he has formed a trio and no longer plays with his original band members. He now plays with drummer, Steve Jordan and bass player, Pino Paladino. This was a major leap for John. He quit playing the huge arena venues and now plays the 2,000 to 3,000 ones. I caught him at the Fillmore in San Francisco recently. He is transformed--longer hair, leaner body, and rockin' the blues--more intense now where he used to be predominantly mellow. His new album--a live compilation of songs from the recent tour this trio did--is due out on November 22. He is now playing and writing the kind of music he has always been passionate about ala Stevie Ray Vaughn, Jimi Hendrix, and Sam Cooke, with his own inimitable stamp of identity on them. Incredibly exciting. They'll play three different places in San Francisco from December 29-31.
Did you know that Jonny Lang and John Mayer have another disc in common? They are on the new Herbie Hancock album titled "Possibilities". Two very enjoyable pieces. John's is creative, but I play Jonny's at least twice a day.
There, you've found someone who really is a fan of both. They are both my number one's!
Yes. You said it right--GENIUSES--each in his own way.
