Where The Light Is: John Mayer Live In Los Angeles Reviews

• The greatest concert film ever made!

  
  By A2P1PAMV03PYNG on 2008-07-01
  I'll just start off by saying that I was fortunate enough to sit front row at this concert. It was definitely the best concert I have ever been to. This is pertinent because I witnessed it live and have now seen it in recorded form. I must say, that this film accurately and genuinely captures the magic and electricity of that night.
  The film is amazing as well. I say film, because it's not just a concert video. There are also bits of commentary and insight from John Mayer. This, combined with the inspiring cinemaphotography, precise editing, and the great music itself, makes for a rediculously enjoyable experience. Even if you are not a fan of Mayer's music, you'll have to agree that this is simply a great film, based on the high production quality alone. I, like many others, am a huge live music fan and own many concerts on DVD, Blu-Ray, CD, etc., but this beautiful example of "pure" art certainly ranks at the top and anyone would be doing a disservice to themselves by not adding it to their collection.
  
  

• What defines ART?

  
  By AFBBF8DK92P3T on 2008-07-02
  I'm sure there are many arguably "correct" answers to this question. It is an ambiguous question, no doubt. I believe that Art is something consciously created by someone, that leaves an indelible mark on *another* (even just one person), and will be with that person forever. There is alot of art that I consider awful. But that particular work moves someone and typically many many others. One man's fodder is another's gold, perhaps. But what John Mayer has effectively done is bridged a long-existing gap between talent (and art) and popular music. Pop music hasn't been slapped in the face since Nirvana (and grunge) essentially. Just like Nirvana, disco/dance before that, and the Beatles before that, Mayer has honed in on this incredible secret that takes talent of the stars and a keen curiosity about everything in life, to reveal.
  
  I've seen a lot of good stuff. I've heard a lot of amazingly talented musicians, voaclists, and poets. To me, Mayer is an uncanny diamond in the ruff. He's not only the pearl inside the clam at the bottom of the sea who floated to the top and was discovered, but he happens to be the most beautiful and special one at that (figuratively speaking with the analogy. Calm down ladies who here for the hair only. In fact, you should probably stop reading at this point). My parenthetical note brings me to the next point. Mayer has the ability to crossover these worlds that rarely coincide. He has the ability to instill an impetus for a group of ladies to have entire dicussion forum dedicated to which hair style is best, and he STILL has every bit of talent and art to give to the rest of us who are a little more than superficial. I could go through a music history lesson, but I'll just say (and with obvious conviction) not many people have been able to that EVER. John Mayer can please the bimbo next door AND the jazzers in between Ornette Coleman records. He does it all. He FEELS it all. That to me is an artist in true form. I'm fond of many many things and ways of believing and styles of living and music, all of which I could understandably see others vehemently hating. But with the wisdom I carry, I can't seem to find an answer to why anyone would not like or at least appreciate John Mayer - for everything he is, stands for, does, and the general way he carries himself.
  
  The DVD is explained thoroughly, and everyone will review this a million times and reitterate and restate the same things over and over. My review was more of an aritst review, but was inspired after watching this DVD. Mayer is the only artist that I would do this for. I got the DVD the first day it came out, watched it all (even though I should have been doing more productive things), and now finally come out of a shell and write a review. I've been a fan a long time, and he's the only artist that can make me, a grown man, cry upon the initiation of a song - just a speck of a song, a note, or a vocal nuance. That's saying something. That's art. This DVD is on par with Mayer's being. Again, several small parts send me to welling up with tears - envy, wanton, happiness, who knows what all - I am a verbose and thoughtful (pensive) person, and I can't tell you what or why his music does what it does to me. That's art.
  
  Long review, I apoloigize. If you have read thus far, you should be commended. I would like to say for my likewise guitar players out there, that Mayer once again takes it to a new level. We use to wonder how to play like him, then we finally got there, then we proceeded to nail all his blues chops, but even now, he takes his improv and HEART to a new level. And his vocal improv has never been more handsome and sturdy. This DVD is a journey, and one that should require focus. Give yourself to this music. Become a part of it. Become a part of him, and this will take you someplace that not even Mayer has taken you yet. It's funny how ART continues to make scholars and scientists fall to their knees. And for that fact, a 5 star rating system just doesn't seem to inflict the same fire.
  
  

• John Is In His Atmosphere Again

  
  By A9TVUDAZWHVOT on 2008-07-02
  As soon as I ripped open my "Where the Light Is" Live DVD I watched it all the way through. John manages to capture the audience with new tweakings of his top songs. The man continues to amaze me because he is his own worst critic and he is never satisfied, which ends up being a treat for anyone willing to be a fan for years. This DVD contains numerous songs in which he expands and elaborates his vocals..top notch John, top notch. Buy this- you won't be disappointed.
  
  

• Much Better Than I Expected

  
  By A2Z6S3GN8Z3VGO on 2008-07-02
  I can honestly say that I was not a huge John Mayer fan in the past because his music simply turned me off with his adult contemporary/pop songs such as Your Body Is A Wonderland. As of today however, he has become an incredible artist whose guitar playing can appeal to various guitar geeks, while his songs can appeal to a wide range of audiences ranging from teenage girls who just listen to him because he is "hot" or those who have an open mind to different types of music. I can say that I first became a fan of John Mayer with the Trio album and then I listened to Continuum. I was thinking it was just going to be another acoustic pop John Mayer record but I was sorely mistaken. This is my favorite album by Mr. Mayer because you get the John Mayer Trio (the blusey side that sounds a bit like SRV, Hendrix, Buddy Guy, BB King, etc.), the sensitive songwriter personality (even that part of the album isn't that bad), and the band set (which consists of mostly Continuum cuts) all in one package. This album proves that Mr. Mayer has matured as a musician and is a force to be reckoned with. I can honestly say that I now look forward to any future projects by John Mayer.
  
  

• Almost Like Being There

  
  By A11QY8BIQKXWSR on 2008-07-01
  I was fortunate enough to see Where the Light Is on the big screen. The only drawback was that I saw an edited version of the DVD. The DVD clocks in at 164 minutes and the version I saw was only 90 minutes.
  
  This film shows us, what Mayer calls, his three incarnations; Introspective acoustic artist, rocking power trio guitarist and hit producing singer/songwriter. To me, they don't feel like three different people. The talent and heart of John Mayer weave through all of these, so-called, incarnations to hold them together.
  
  Shot on film, the movie has the feel of some classic concert movies. A bunch of cameras with interesting angles and some smooth editing lend an intimacy to the viewing experience. You get to see perspectives not normally seen during a live show and seeing it on the big screen, close-up and personal added a level of excitement that you don't get while watching a DVD on your TV. But I'm sure the soul and power will still come through for the home viewer.
  
  Acoustic artist John starts the show with some nice, jazz tinged numbers to get things warmed up and the large amount of close-ups and shots that wrap around him while he performs, invite you into a place you normally wouldn't be able to go. On Neon Mayer exhibits his nimble fingers and creative chord changes we don't normally see in a pop artist and a nicely arranged version of Tom Petty's Free Fallin' fits nicely into the set.
  
  Johnny and the Trio play the second set and they really can rock. Like power trios of the past, such as the Jimi Hendrix Experience and Cream, these three highly talented musicians push each other to their limits and pull us along with them. At times it was like a roaring locomotive with all three frantically stoking the fire. On the exceptional slow blues number Out of My Mind there is a fire burning as Mayer wrings every note from the neck of his guitar until, it seems, there's nothing left.
  
  The hit producing singer/songwriter closed the show and his band, as tight as ever, doesn't disappoint. One of the highlights was a moving version of Gravity that featured one of Mayer's heartfelt guitar solos that never fail to impress. One nice thing, for me, was his staying away from some of the sappier pop songs that I normally skip over on my iPod.
  
  There's some insightful commentary by Mayer that opens the film and is interspersed between numbers and these clips are short enough to keep the film moving along nicely.
  
  If you're a John Mayer fan there is plenty here to satisfy you. If you're not familiar with Mr. Mayer's work this film is a great introduction to a young talent who, I feel, still has plenty of room to grow as an artist.
  
  
  
• Worth It For One Song
  By A2MA91EECROUMZ on 2008-07-07
  On Any Given Thursday, I discovered Covered in Rain. Seven years later, that is still my favorite song of all time. On Where The Light Is, that song is In Your Atmosphere.
  
  
• Mayer Rides Again
  By A2O29VXFDW0T9W on 2008-08-05
  I've been lucky enough to see Mayer in concert. Add to that a couple appearances on Austin City Limits and two at Eric Clapton's Crossroads Festivals. For a little variety, throw in an appearance with Brad Paisley on CMT's Crossroads.
  
  Mayer never disappoints and never ceases to surprise. It would be easy to dismiss him as a purveyor of commercial accoustic romantic ballads if the only only material one ever heard were from Room for Squares. In fairness a couple of those tracks were overplayed to the point of causing an allergic reaction.
  
  Taking in his live appearances and the various concert shows one soon realizes that Mayer is a virtuoso. The only personal analogy that I can make is Winton Marsalis. The complete command of technical capability is eclipsed only by an instinctive 'feel' that transcends the notes on a page.
  
  Mayer was wonderful with Double Trouble. His Austin City Limits cover of Empty Arms was a worthy tribute to Steve Ray. His performance with Buddy Guy was probably the surest sign I have ever seen that race no longer has a place in sports, politics or even music. Was that really a kid from Connecticut outdueling the legendary bluesman?
  
  Where The Light Is delivers. Production quality is good, the play list is expansive and extends well beyond the customary radio roster.
  
  The cover of Tom Petty's Free Fallin' made the DVD for me. It's a simple three chord song. I was just stunned that Mayer could develop a different and interesting arrangement, play it so perfecftly and exhibit such enthusiasm doing it.
  
  Don't wait. Idolize this guy now. Most of the artistic geniuses labor in relative anonymity until way past their prime. This guy is the read deal and this DVD shows him in his element.
  
  As evidence of my objectivity, I have to remark that the vocal on Belief is a little flat. It's one of my favorite songs and the version on the most recent Crossroads disk is much better. It's a little like a bad hair day for Heather Locklear. Hard to imagine throwing her out for a momentary lapse!
  
  Enjoy
  
  
• BRILLIANT
  By A235H28TGHL2Q1 on 2008-06-28
  Brilliant work here. I was fortunate enough to see the show last December and this is almost as good as being there.
  
  Stunning use of film - John & the gang never sounded better.
  
  Buy it, you won't be disappointed, and like a reviewer recently said, "He plays like his life depends on it".
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
• like punching underwater
  By A10A382QLEBOT on 2008-07-07
  Having been a John Mayer fan since I first heard his Why Georgia song two years after it came out I knew there was more than meets the eye. So I explored and found all the JM info I could..and then Any given Thursday came out and City Love and Covered in Rain proved me right.. So needless to say I was waiting for him to come out with a lengthy live DVD, and people this is it.John Mayer approaching his prime, this is a great performance(specially Paparazzi part) and you won't regret this purchase. Mayer can shred with anyone out there alive right now.. BUY IT or and...
  REMEMBER DUANE ALLMAN
  
  
• Virtuoso in action
  By A16N51V6Y9WX5Z on 2008-07-19
  Discovered JM four years ago on a trip to the US at a record store in Dallas. Had absolutely no idea what I was buying, but I got caught by the fresh and young image at "room for squares" record. I am guitar fan, and watching this young guy reminded my of the time I also discovered Kenny Wayne Shepperd, also by pure intuition.
  My intuition about John became one of the greatest personal discoveries that I have ever had, the amount of joy I get when listening to JM and by watching his concerts, is just beyond great.
  The talent to handle both hands on a variety of guitars is like he invented the instrument; it seems that he thinks and the instrument translates into sounds, sounds that are new, intelligent, creative, profound, full of love and of course, full of meaning.
  I bought, at the same time, both the DVD and the CD, knowing I was making the right thing. Now, having watched the DVD I am thinking of buying a dozen more for my friends, for the people I love I want them to feel the same emotions and admiration for this creature of nature that positively completes in an intelligent and enjoyable manner, any situation of our days life.
  This material is definitely a valuable piece for any collection, from cinematographic perspective, music or poetry, is a must have.
  Saludos from Mexico!
  
  
• Gets old quick
  By A3N5MVN1ZZOBLZ on 2008-07-28
  While I love the music, the DVD isn't that interesting. Infact, it gets old. But if you're one of those people who is very visual or likes to see how the band interacts, then by all means, get this DVD. Some of the behind-the-scenes footage is interesting as well as insights on what's going on in the head John Mayer. Besides that, I was bored to sleep (literally) once the the acoustic set was done... And I'm a pretty big fan! But then again, I'm one of those people who would rather see a full DVD of behind-the-scenes. Although that takes away from his point of needing "an hour just to get people back to knowing nothing about you".
  
  But it is great to have on in background for parties or get togethers. Or keep the audio track on. Otherwise, the John Mayer fanatic in me is completely outraged, but I can't say that recommend purchasing it.
  
  
• No suprises here
  By A3OEPYSSPBA2FX on 2008-08-01
  It is John Mayer. Whether you like him or hate. He has plenty of solos whether it was his acoustic stuff/ jazz/ blues, it was all there and plenty of it. It looked good and sounded better. Had a good variety of his music and displayed some of his best stuff.
  
  Personally, I don't know what is so great about Gravity. The lyrics are great but I just feel the song never takes off. It is kinda blah the entire song. Other than that, every song is spot on. Just buy it.
  
  If you have a blu-ray player, don't skimp out. But the Blu-ray. Otherwise, there is nothing wrong with the dvd and its 5.1 audio. If you have good speakers the music will image great. The rears are purely for fan noise and ambiance.
  
  
• Buy it! PERIOD
  By A1P6HFXDNFR7NQ on 2008-07-09
  It is amazing to watch Mr. John Mayer and the musicians he hangs with.
  Guys old enough to be his father but Mayer showing that respect that can only come from a true music man!
  
  His respect for the different genres and players of those genres is very appealing!
  And did i say he plays the hell out of a guitar - cheez - that boy is on fire!!!!
  
  Go Johhny, Go Johnny - Go Johnny GO!!!
  
  
• Great Music, Great Value
  By A3I9K6BWSECLG2 on 2008-07-11
  I paid even less by pre-ordering but that's of no consequence. The DVD is a top-shelf production with a great variety of music (I mean come on--22 tracks!) and worth two-times the retail price. I'm a BIG JM fan...this is the next best thing to an actual concert experience...I couldn't be more pleased.
  
  
• WOW!
  By A3PU2TKU7QXF3E on 2008-07-16
  I had bought the CD and DVD at the same time but the CD arrived first. Listened to the CD a few times and really really enjoyed it and when the DVD came a few days later I was pretty excited to sit down and watch it. Again, WOW! Mayer plays with so much intensity and energy and really is a virtuoso at what he does all around. This young man definitely has got it right down to his bones with talent. His guitar playing is superb and along with his vocal style of singing what a combo. I think this just might be one of the best DVD's in my collection and with what I have, that is saying a lot. I have become a huge John Mayer fan. Look forward to anything he does from here on out.
  
  
• In time...
  By A3V5HTOROAN3TJ on 2008-07-16
  In time I think that this concert album will go down as one of the greats of all time. Mayer pulls off three incarnations of himself flawlessly, which is remarkable. I found myself a little shocked as I normally do not care at all for pop music, but Mayer just writes good songs. And his guitar playing... he's in a whole other league.
  
  
• John Mayer "Live" is as close to a concert as you will get...
  By A2X28X1FOMWNYR on 2008-07-22
  If you are a big John Mayer fan as I am, this is an awesome DVD. Makes me want to buy the cd for the rides to work.
  
  
  
• Where The Light Is John Mayer
  By A2VUBOO0XNNER1 on 2008-07-27
  KUDOS! Excellent, excellent, excellent! As huge John Mayer fans my husband and I love this concert DVD. Actually, 3 concert sets including an acoustic performance with his trio... very well done. We highly recommend. Also recommend Todd Agnew to contemporary Christian music fans.. one incredible artist.
  
  
• I enjoyed the DVD much more than the CDs
  By A5WDGX4L8NATQ on 2008-07-27
  I became a real fan of John Mayer's after the Continuum cd, which is still my favorite album of the last five years. I saw him in concert last year, and he was spectacular. Each time I hear Mayer on guitar, I'd swear that he visited the Crossroads since the last time I heard him; he just gets better and better.
  
  I enjoyed this concert, and for those who've never seen Mayer live, this will be a suitable substitute. In my opinion, some of the material doesn't convert well to cd listening, but the DVD is excellent and worth the money.
  
  
• A great concert
  By A147FLTVSXZASU on 2008-07-29
  I thought this was a great concert. You get John Mayer in three phases. I loved it.
  
  
• Great
  By A3UHTC1ZVD8LFP on 2008-07-29
  Great show, very well filmed, sound is fantastic. I like the 3 set thing John does. However i was hoping for better bonus footage.
  This is a great show for any Mayer fan you get it all, the Room for Squares era, the blues Trio and new stuff.
  He keeps gettin better and better. Dont need to like him as a person to enjoy this
  
  
• great concert
  By A3UT2594HIX46N on 2008-07-31
  excellent sound and picture, bought dvd and cd both. The cd has been in the truck for over week (a true test of repeated listening).
  
  
• Where The Light Is: John Mayer Live In Los Angeles
  By A3PRRHFSMXK4C6 on 2008-07-31
  I saw this originally in theaters, and it was more than incredible. The DVD is just as good at home. I highly reccommend it, it's some of John's greatest work - through the three "personalities" - acoustic, the trio, and with the band. It's not too expensive either, definitely worth the money!
  
  
• A Unique Musical Experience
  By A3SWOODAMHH7MZ on 2008-08-01
  This concert showcases one of the finest musical performances ever seen.
  
  Beautiful production combined with incredible musicality comes together to make a truly unique viewing experience.
  
  
• Mayer - the great American hope
  By A2R5PE9Z8LAFIV on 2008-08-01
  John Mayer is clearly one of the most talented young American musicians on the scene today. Over the past 5 years, he has picked up some incredible blues chops and is becoming an even better entertainer. He is very versatile in pop, blues, rock, and the sky is the limit for this 30-year old star. John Mayer is relevant and has staying power. Barring any tragedies, he should be on the scene for a long time.
  
  
• A must have for any John Mayer fan
  By AISN2FZAQTNRL on 2008-08-01
  A great concert with a great setlist. A definite must-have for any John Mayer fan. Other than the concert, the little interview snippets are okay, but not necessarily needed
  
  
• Best Live Performer Ever!!
  By A2BR73NIG000WQ on 2008-08-03
  John Mayer flawlessly delivered a live performance that rates to a studio version in fact better than a lot of musicians studio versions. This is no discredit to other musicians....the man is just that good. John offers pop, blues, and acoustics in his sets. What a well rounded musician not to mention he is an extremely talented songwriter as well! Must have performance.
  
  
• Must-have!
  By A1ITIHWW9IOYXF on 2008-08-04
  Absolutely, 100% worth every single penny! The concert itself allows the viewer to see all 3 personalities of John Mayer at their best! If you like John Mayer's music, you will love this concert!
  
  
• John Maher dvdI
  By A1QH7IX2AHYTBL on 2008-08-08
  I love John Mayer so naturally I like this dvd. The three part series shows him in three different acts. They all were excellent.
  
  
• Awesome!
  By A2EO9YCJ519L5W on 2008-08-25
  I have seen John Mayer three times in concert and he is amazing. This CD/DVD really highlight that. This would have been a great show to see. He does a few songs acoustically (Neon, Stop This Train, In Your Atmosphere, Daughters, Free Falling (from Tom Petty fame)), then brings out the John Mayer Trio for a set (Everyday I Have The Blues, Wait Until Tomorrow, Who Did You Think I Was, Come When I Call, Good Love Is On The Way, Out Of My Mind, Vultures, Bold As Love). Finally the whole band plays a third set (Waiting On The World To Change, Slow Dancing In A Burning Room, Why Georgia, The Heart Of Live, I Don't Need No Doctor, Gravity, I Don't Trust Myself, Belief, I'm Gonna Find Another You) . All told there are 22 songs.
  My favorites are Who Did You Think I Was, Gravity, Waiting On The World To Change and Good Love Is On The Way. The band, either John Mayer Trio or his regular band are fabulous. If you like John Mayer, you'll love this CD/DVD!
  
  

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