Producer John Alagia's fingerprints are all over this major-label debut for Atlanta-based singer/songwriter John Mayer. On songs like "Not Myself" Mayer seems almost to be parroting Dave Matthews, whom Alagia produced on several albums, including Crash and Before These Crowded Streets. The fault is not Mayer's -- his songs are always heartfelt, occasionally poignant, and sometimes even funny, but the jazzy hooks, echoed lyrics, and occasionally forced falsettos that adorn them sometimes seem to be a little much. Despite this, Room for Squares is an easy album to like. Mayer has a soulful voice and he opens himself up emotionally, showing a vulnerability that makes all of the slick production seem forgivable. From the contrite reflection of "My Stupid Mouth" to the sweetly sensual "Your Body Is a Wonderland" to the closing song, "St. Patrick's Day" (which, ironically, is about not wanting to end things), on this album, it's the thoughts that count. ~ Stacia Proefrock, All Music Guide

Two years after his full-length debut, Inside Wants Out, singer/songwriter and guitarist John Mayer recorded this sophomore offering, Room for Squares. The album was produced by John Alagía. The producer had worked with artist Dave Matthews on a few albums first and those influences show through clearly on this recording, taking it in a somewhat different direction than Mayer's first, and mostly acoustic, release. There are 13 tracks on Room for Squares. Mayer wrote or co-wrote all of the songs. He does a decent job performing them, but many of the numbers show a singer who hasn't quite reached his zenith. The talent is there and with time to find himself and his own style and voice -- instead of Dave Matthews' -- the rest will fall into place. Still, this album is one that Mayer fans won't wish to pass over. It does have more than enough strong points to make it worthwhile. ~ Charlotte Dillon, All Music Guide