One could postulate that "Continuum" is the synthesis of Eric Clapton, Sting and Steve Ray Vaughn--three of Mayer�s influences and musical heroes. Further, one could then wonder how the emulation of such a lofty trifecta pans out.

Quite well, actually.

Capitalizing on the joint success of his pop personality and that of his blues/roots side project, the John Mayer Trio, Mayer's latest album delivers a relatively happy medium combining these two sensibilities.

Gone for the most part are the awkward (yet hugely popular) teenie-bopper pop moments that littered his debut LP and raised his status from Atlanta coffeehouse bard to millionaire TRL favorite. Five years is a long time in the world of pop music, and Mayer has used his mainstream success to branch out in other areas of interest, mainly the exploration and playing of electric blues. This artistic growth and maturity is evident on "Continuum" making this, his third studio album, his most solid work to date.

Longtime fans will take note that, while Mayer�s breathy, crooner hat is still intact, the listener is also treated to a smoldering version of Jimi Hendrix's "Bold As Love." It's these varying dynamics, coupled with the more "adult" lyrical sensibilities, that should make this set appealing to people who weren't fans of Mayer's previous work.