Continuum
by John Mayer
  • Record Label: Sony
  • Release Date: Sep 12, 2006
User Score
8.7

Universal acclaim- based on 164 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 146 out of 164
  2. Mixed: 7 out of 164
  3. Negative: 11 out of 164

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  1. ibadukefan
    Feb 2, 2014
    10
    This is John Mayer in the zone. This is where he lives. This is the kind of music he should be making for the rest of his career. I know artists hate to be pigeon-holed, but there is nobody else making this stuff. If he doesn't, who will?! This is an amazing blend of pop and blues. Most people, for whatever reason, can't sit through a blues record. Mayer makes the blues accessible.This is John Mayer in the zone. This is where he lives. This is the kind of music he should be making for the rest of his career. I know artists hate to be pigeon-holed, but there is nobody else making this stuff. If he doesn't, who will?! This is an amazing blend of pop and blues. Most people, for whatever reason, can't sit through a blues record. Mayer makes the blues accessible. This is an all-time Top 10 record in my opinion.… Expand
  2. jfrotylpe532
    Dec 21, 2012
    8
    John Mayer brings a great sounding album as a matter of fact way better sounding album than his newer music.
  3. SteveJ
    Oct 20, 2006
    10
    This is a fantastic album. People seem to think because John Mayer wrote a few cheesy pop songs he is not talented. If you would have actually listened to the entire album the first three times he had a release you would understand that. Now with his fourth album some people are beginning to come around. Some still do not see the light. Some of us just shrug and say "how much more can This is a fantastic album. People seem to think because John Mayer wrote a few cheesy pop songs he is not talented. If you would have actually listened to the entire album the first three times he had a release you would understand that. Now with his fourth album some people are beginning to come around. Some still do not see the light. Some of us just shrug and say "how much more can this guy do?" In 20 years I will be saying "I told you so" when you are noticing his talent for the first time.… Expand
  4. WILBURD
    Oct 6, 2006
    9
    Wow, I can't believe such a number of people could be negative about this album. I like all JM's stuff and find very little to criticise here. Only time will tell if it replaces Heavier Things as my favourite because it's a record that I never got tired of.
  5. BB
    Dec 10, 2006
    10
    An instant classic - this will prove to be a defining album for John Mayer and one of the top releases of the decade.
  6. PJ
    Sep 20, 2006
    9
    Excellent effort.
  7. JeffA
    Oct 4, 2006
    9
    Finally a cd that decided that Pop Music can be used it a way to stimulate the senses. Its not just noise anymore... this is pop MUSIC
  8. DavidS
    Sep 16, 2006
    10
    Tremendous sonics combine with a great performance. Vultures is my facorite track, but the whole album is superb.
  9. LauraW
    Sep 18, 2006
    8
    Don't get me wrong. I am a HUGE JM fan. But I must admit there are ups and downs on this album. Maybe I have been mesmirised by the gold dust twinkling from my speakers as I had listened to Try! Nevertheless, after listening to Continuum three times in a row and reasonably enjoying it, it was almost a relief to put Try! back on. More like that John, PLEASE! Oh and by the way, where Don't get me wrong. I am a HUGE JM fan. But I must admit there are ups and downs on this album. Maybe I have been mesmirised by the gold dust twinkling from my speakers as I had listened to Try! Nevertheless, after listening to Continuum three times in a row and reasonably enjoying it, it was almost a relief to put Try! back on. More like that John, PLEASE! Oh and by the way, where is Tracing? John played this song last time he came to Wellington (New Zealand) saying it will be on his next albulm. Well it wasn't on Try! It's a beautiful song that tugs at the old relationship/growing up heart strings. He's so good at that. I'm just hoing Continuum is a grower. Esp. considering I'm flying to Auckland to see him in November.… Expand
  10. [Anonymous]
    Sep 18, 2006
    9
    great songwriting as per usual...well done
  11. RebekahF
    Sep 18, 2006
    10
    Mayer gives us a new look at old sounds. An album of twelve songs that are all at once diverse and tightly intertwined around similar themes of love, loss, betrayal and above all, coming of age.
  12. jennifer
    Jan 25, 2007
    9
    Starting with track 2 you immediately feel the down home blues influence in the music and I love it! Belief if beautiful, Gravity is nice, Slow Dancing in a Burning Room is hypnotic. This album has soul and I love the fact that his guitar is getting some real attention on this CD. Make sure you pick this one up. It is well worth it.
  13. Melanie
    Mar 20, 2007
    10
    I comletely fell in love with this album. Slow Dancing, Belief, Gravity, Vulture, basically all the songs are brilliant. And his live performances are even better
  14. MattD
    Jul 25, 2007
    10
    I thought I would hate this. Really. Waiting on the World to Change is annoying to hear on the radio, but on the album it's the standout track. Before you listen to the album, you have to realize that the only fast songs are WOTWTC and Bold as Love. Once you realize that, the album is amazing, with plenty of heartbreaking ballads. The only songs that aren't as good are the last I thought I would hate this. Really. Waiting on the World to Change is annoying to hear on the radio, but on the album it's the standout track. Before you listen to the album, you have to realize that the only fast songs are WOTWTC and Bold as Love. Once you realize that, the album is amazing, with plenty of heartbreaking ballads. The only songs that aren't as good are the last two, but their lyrical content makes them perfectly placed at the end. Quick Picks: Waiting on the World to Change, The Heart of Life, Bold as Love 5/5… Expand
  15. DesmondM.
    Sep 8, 2007
    10
    As a musician who loves every side that John Mayer has to offer (from RFS right up to Continuum)I can honestly say that John Mayer is one of the few artists that every thing he puts his finger on turns to gold.The Fact that he surrounds himself with much older amazingly talented musicians is just a small testament to how pure-bred his talent is. Name me another artist who has millions of As a musician who loves every side that John Mayer has to offer (from RFS right up to Continuum)I can honestly say that John Mayer is one of the few artists that every thing he puts his finger on turns to gold.The Fact that he surrounds himself with much older amazingly talented musicians is just a small testament to how pure-bred his talent is. Name me another artist who has millions of teenage girls screaming, not only to chart-topping pop songs, but a fifteen minute guitar solo? Turly a feat for music I'll say!!! I don't have a witty little quote to describe how multi-dimensional the artistic, and musical value of his writing is but all I know is he is a fifteen-year old guitar players hero. Thank you John.… Expand
  16. Chuck
    Nov 10, 2006
    10
    There is nothing better than driving at night with the top down listening to a little John! He is truly one of our generations best talents and should be celebrated. Bravo John, Bravo!
  17. SarhaH
    Oct 17, 2006
    10
    When I first listened to this CD I thought it was pleasant enough, but after listening to it a few more times I've picked up on more depth and nuance of both the music and the lyrics. Similar to the lyrics on Heavier Things, it seems he starts with poetry and then adds music. However, the music itself feels more like learning the blues; gentle but rich. Love it.
  18. SydA
    Dec 24, 2006
    10
    Awesome album...truly can't find a more talented artist out there. Very refreshing.
  19. TravisB
    Oct 30, 2006
    8
    Yes, he
  20. EmmaR
    Oct 4, 2006
    10
    John never ceases to amaze me. His new music is every bit as uplifting and soothing and humanity inspiring as always. Continuum is a source of great musical joy. The Heart of Life is one of the most heart warming songs I have ever heard. This music just simply adds to one's quality of life. Thanks
  21. BruceR
    Oct 5, 2006
    9
    This is the first John Mayer album I've heard and I bought it primarily due to Steve Jordan's involvement. What a pleasure to listen to. Mr. Mayer eschews the more maudlin traits of singer-songwriterdoom for a tasty mix of jazz, funk and folk. It's fine from start to finish and, yes, the boy can play.
  22. annmariem
    Sep 12, 2006
    10
    Nicely shows John Mayer growing up - while he's not all grown up yet - I'm enjoying this faze of his life.
  23. LuisG
    Sep 12, 2006
    10
    in keeping true to himself by avoiding over produced albums and passing songs "continuum" offers an escape on what radio passes for music these days.. mayer shines making doudt, love, loss and any emotion worth experiencing ... not far fetch to call his work " GENIOUS" his bluesy, r&b , rock infused tracks stay with you and trigger a tear, hope and complete serenity... I LOVE THIS MAN !!!!
  24. ErinY
    Sep 12, 2006
    10
    It is great to have John Mayer back. This album is definitely one of his best and really showcases his songwriting abilty.
  25. JohnC
    Sep 15, 2006
    10
    Most mature and accurate potrayal of John Mayer in the studio yet
  26. RandallD
    Sep 16, 2006
    10
    Best work yet.
  27. JoshB
    Sep 16, 2006
    10
    The best Mayer album to date. No other recent artist has successfully explored other genres of music as well as John has. John is doing something no one else is and he's exposing the masses to the coolness of the blues and just original music in general. See you in Oct. 8th for the John/Sheryl show. Thanks for rocking.
  28. JennB
    Sep 24, 2006
    9
    something people need to keep in mind when obtaining a new JM record, snd something we die hard fans know is to keep a completely open mind when listening to a new record for the first time. Every new release signifies growth and maturity in both his music, and within himself. Many of the tracks on here remind me of adult contemporary of the 70's/80's....almost an interpretation something people need to keep in mind when obtaining a new JM record, snd something we die hard fans know is to keep a completely open mind when listening to a new record for the first time. Every new release signifies growth and maturity in both his music, and within himself. Many of the tracks on here remind me of adult contemporary of the 70's/80's....almost an interpretation of the Jim Croce and Cat Stevens sound. Amazing work,… Expand
  29. RossW
    Jan 24, 2007
    10
    John Mayer's crowning success so far. With Room for Squares he was a shy kid who didn't know stardom, on Heavier Things he was still a kid trying to please the people, but with Continuum, John is himself, and we hear all parts of him through his music. Mayer is the superman of this generation, and hopefully he and a supporting cast of other artists can bring musicianship back John Mayer's crowning success so far. With Room for Squares he was a shy kid who didn't know stardom, on Heavier Things he was still a kid trying to please the people, but with Continuum, John is himself, and we hear all parts of him through his music. Mayer is the superman of this generation, and hopefully he and a supporting cast of other artists can bring musicianship back into the mainstream… Expand
  30. NickC
    May 9, 2007
    10
    The first album in a ling time that actuallt feels inspired by something.
  31. geeunit
    Nov 15, 2006
    10
    AWESOME
  32. KidB
    Nov 28, 2006
    10
    His best and clearly most consistant effort yet. I don't live in America so don't hear that much about him, my friends from the States feel he is over hyped. I just love his groove man, and he's pushing the boundaries of rock at the moment. There hasn't been many consistant records this year, but this is. A grower as all classic albums should be!
  33. GregO
    Oct 18, 2006
    10
    Perfection! johm Mayer gets the perfect mixture of Blues and Soul! I love this Album!
  34. Patrick
    Sep 12, 2006
    9
    Absolutely outstanding vocals, musicianship, production, etc. The only thing holding me back from giving a 10 is that he'll probably put out even better in the future.
  35. Nateg
    Sep 12, 2006
    9
    In the imortal words of Ron Burgendy "that's baby making music"
  36. AbiJ
    Sep 12, 2006
    10
    this is mayer coming of age, he's made a timeless record that is putting him on the road to one day being compared with the greats of past generations. He has also given himself more room to flex his exquisite guitar skills, previously restricted to live performances. He's a brilliant songwriter and these songs are crafted to perfection. BUY NOW!
  37. buzzm
    Sep 12, 2006
    10
    Easily a top 10 album of the year... seriously.
  38. BradC
    Sep 13, 2006
    9
    I preordered this album, received it on Monday, and have been listening to it ever since. As a JM fan from the start, I'm really enjoying where his music is going. He's moving away from the acoustic ballads (although he does include one or two of those) and writing songs that you can tap your feet and bob your head to. People who expect this album to be placed in either the Folk I preordered this album, received it on Monday, and have been listening to it ever since. As a JM fan from the start, I'm really enjoying where his music is going. He's moving away from the acoustic ballads (although he does include one or two of those) and writing songs that you can tap your feet and bob your head to. People who expect this album to be placed in either the Folk Rock or Blues genre are missing the point: Mayer makes his own music, not the music of Dave or Hendrix or anyone else. He takes, molds, and creates something that is undeniably listenable. Hats off....probably my favorite album for the next few months.… Expand
  39. FrankP
    Sep 15, 2006
    9
    This is a very good CD. Like most work done by Mayer, it takes a couple listens before the songs really take hold of you. Unlike Room for Squares and Heavier Things, though, there is no clear second single on the CD. This is probably because Mayer seems to have been focusing more on being true to himself instead of being true to the radio.
  40. ChristineS
    Sep 22, 2006
    10
    JM just keeps getting better and better...
  41. Anne-MarieC
    Sep 27, 2006
    10
    I bought this CD for a reason. It's wonderful and the lyrics are so real. I love it! Relaxing and good for anybody.
  42. ebss
    Feb 14, 2007
    10
    At first listen, I thought continuum was a disappointment. I was so wrong. In fact, it's the best and the most entertaining cd I ever bought. It does need twice and more listening to get it kick in, and once it does, you'll get addicted, especially to Vultures, I don't Trust Myself, Bold as Love
  43. TroyM
    Apr 14, 2007
    10
    This is one of the only cds that I have on windows media player with a perfect 5 star on every song, that's coming from someone that basically listens to Hip Hop and R&B, that's telling how good this one is...........
  44. Steve
    Dec 11, 2006
    10
    Excellent album from John Mayer, possibly the defining artist of his generation.
  45. TTW107
    Feb 11, 2012
    10
    One of the rare albums where I can listen right through and enjoy every single second of it. Slow dancing in a burning room, vultures, and stop this train are the highlights for me.
  46. RinoFury
    Aug 25, 2013
    10
    This is surely John Mayer's masterpiece in my opinion, in which he combines every influence from the blues to the jazz, pop-rock and so on Surely he gave everything of his own punch, this is the album -talking about style- where you can say "wow, this is John Mayer One of the greatest album ever and this is a MUST LISTEN album
  47. AlexN
    May 28, 2015
    9
    This is a truly great album that I know I'll be listening to in 10 years time.

    It perfectly exemplifies Mayer's ability to juggle complex, harmonically rich arrangements with beautifully crafted, mature lyrics and effective, simple melody.
  48. MarioVR
    May 14, 2016
    10
    This is John Mayer in the zone, Where he born, Mayer makes the blues accessible. Continuum is the most honest album I've ever heard, It's an escape, a kind of break of the music industry these days, It's Mayer coming of age, There are amazing guitar players, good singers, but this is a musician being a true artist.
  49. gideonbrown
    Aug 25, 2019
    9
    Beautiful, high fidelity record from a master songwriter. This is probably John Mayer’s best work to date.
  50. AndyMacOz
    Feb 8, 2020
    10
    Mayer’s best work where the guitar leads everything in perfect balance. Blue and pop beautifully combined
  51. hdcooper
    Apr 8, 2021
    9
    John Mayer at his absolute best. Continuum marks Mayer has transitioning into a new phase of his career and cements his legacy as a great singer/songwriter and a master guitar player. Every track is un-skippable.

    9.3/10
  52. kranker22
    Oct 17, 2021
    10
    Great sounding album and immaculate production. One of my all time favs and definetely recommend !
  53. VBSBazooka
    Nov 4, 2021
    8
    A few years back I would not have considered myself the singer-songwriter type but a man named John Mayer turned me on to this. Until recently I had not listened to any of his projects until I listened to The Search for Everything, my review of which you can check out on my profile but we're getting aside form the point. This was the second one. This alum was an emotional rollercoaster inA few years back I would not have considered myself the singer-songwriter type but a man named John Mayer turned me on to this. Until recently I had not listened to any of his projects until I listened to The Search for Everything, my review of which you can check out on my profile but we're getting aside form the point. This was the second one. This alum was an emotional rollercoaster in the best way possible. At 2 different points in the album it almost made me cry. The songs are beautifully composed, each have their own distinct identity and I find myself coming back to this album regularly to get my emotions flowing.

    Favorite Songs: Waiting on the World to Change, Gravity, The Heart of Life, Vultures, Stop this Train, Slow Dancing in a Burning Room
    Least Favorite Songs: N/A    … Expand
  54. Diegomuleri
    Apr 25, 2023
    10
    I think this album is a perfect and cohesive experience with some of the most beautiful songwriting i have ever seen. The messages he gives are personal and emotional and so are the melodies.
    I think this project is highly overhated and to me it has connected immediately. I think this is one of the best blues / soft rock albums
  55. danielsimoes
    Aug 4, 2023
    10
    This album is Mayer's masterpiece. The writing and lyrics still the most mature he ever wroten, the album was produced by the master craftsmanship Steve Jordan, the instrumentals sound incredible and resounds the mellow of the post peak success from mayer, especially the song 'Gravity'. For every electric guitar student, this album is a 'must listen' on your studies, heavilly influenced byThis album is Mayer's masterpiece. The writing and lyrics still the most mature he ever wroten, the album was produced by the master craftsmanship Steve Jordan, the instrumentals sound incredible and resounds the mellow of the post peak success from mayer, especially the song 'Gravity'. For every electric guitar student, this album is a 'must listen' on your studies, heavilly influenced by blues (being complimented by the owns of Mr. BB King and Clapton) and a bit driven by Alicia Key's soul albuns. Great guitar riffs at "Belief" and "Slow Dancing" in what Mayer shows why he's not just a pop artist with a pretty face and famous girlfriends, but a guitar virtuoso, on the likes of SRV and Jimi Hendrix, which studied at Berkeley University.… Expand

Awards & Rankings

41
#41 Most Discussed Album of 2006
14
#14 Most Shared Album of 2006

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
67

Generally favorable reviews - based on 18 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 11 out of 18
  2. Mixed: 7 out of 18
  3. Negative: 0 out of 18
  1. Blender
    70
    Where his earlier music was a parade of bright primary colors, these plaintive melodies come in delicious shades of gray. [Oct 2006, p.138]
  2. PopMatters
    70
    While Continuum doesn’t necessarily contain a sure-thing pop hit, it’s one of the few mainstream pop/rock albums that’s satisfying from the beginning to the end.
    Read full review
  3. Slant Magazine
    50
    With no edge to the songwriting and with such spit-polished, tasteful production, Continuum just doesn't convince as a heady, soulful rock album or as Mayer's creative quantum leap forward.
    Read full review
See all critic reviews »