This is my second round of both John Mayer and opener Michael Franti and Spearhead.  Sadly, I do not recall the latter’s previously attended performance.  That was definitely not the case at last night’s concert at the Fargodome. 

Michael Franti and Spearhead brought tremendous energy and “sunshine” with their combination of pop, hip-hop and reggae sound.  Franti made his way around the dome giving fans in the elevated seats a chance to be up close and personal.  The band, who have been together for twelve years, exude happiness and ease during their well blended performance getting  succeeding in getting “John Mayer Fans” to jump and dance!  Two fans were brought on stage where guitar player Dave Shul and one female fan rocked out Nirvanna’s iconic “Smells Like Teen Spirit” intro.  Franti’s wrapped up his hour by paying the Dome the ultimate compliment saying, “You’ve offered us the best energy the entire tour! Thank you!”  After inviting additional fans on stage to dance and sing Michael Franti and Spearhead played their current hit “Say Hey (I Love You).”

After a thirty minute set change John Mayer, surprising this reviewer, opened with current single “Heartbreak Warfare,” an ‘jam/bluesy’ version of “Crossroads” and breakout hit, “No Such Thing.”

Now, I have to preface: I like John Mayer.  I just wasn’t sure which Mayer if I was going to get:  the ‘crooner’ or the ‘jackass’.  Oh, but never fear!  Fargo did not disappoint.  Displaying, ‘sexual napalm’ signs throughout caused Mayer to pause, “So many ‘sexual napalm’ signs,” he said, referring to the infamous Playboy interview in which he talked about his ex, Jessica Simpson, in bed. “I love saying things people have to Google.”  Jackass! One particular sign caught his eye defending him which he rewarded by jumping off stage and giving her a kiss. Crooner?  Fargo got the best of both worlds!

Other favorites that made the set list consisted of “Comfortable,” “Neon ” and “Waiting on the World to Change” . Mayer covered “Ain’t No Sunshine” and a rather strange rendition of “Don’t Stop Believing”.   Besides the awkward Journey tribute the only downfall was watching Mayer twist his face into painful and grotesque contortions on the big screen.  I do have to say that it use to be a lot worse.

All –in-all John Mayer displayed his immense talent vocally, lyrically and musically!  However, I couldn’t help but feel that the Dome isn’t the ideal place for John; his music resonates with fans far better in a more intimate setting.  Mayer seemed a little cold and I just didn’t’ get the sense that he was truly sharing the experience with the crowd.  Those who attended the show received, like any good work out, heart pumping energy followed by a well executed cool down.

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