Where Does This Door Go (Deluxe Edition)E

The Artist

Mayer Hawthorne, born Andrew Mayer Cohen in Ann Arbor, Michigan, emerged as a leading figure in the 21st-century retro-soul revival. Known for his smooth falsetto and deep love for classic Motown, Philly soul, and yacht rock, he initially built his reputation as a solo multi-instrumentalist who wrote and produced his own material—a self-contained approach that defined his early sound. By the time he began work on his third studio album, Where Does This Door Go, he was ready to step out of his comfort zone. This record represents a pivotal transition in his career, moving away from strict throwback soul toward a more polished, contemporary pop and R&B landscape.

The Album

Released in 2013, Where Does This Door Go was primarily recorded in Los Angeles and marked the first time Hawthorne collaborated with outside producers. To shape this new, modern sound, he enlisted heavyweights like Pharrell Williams, Jack Splash, and Greg Wells—producers who pushed him toward a sleek, Steely Dan-inspired yacht-soul aesthetic. This collaborative constraint forced Hawthorne to relinquish complete control, focusing heavily on his role as a lead vocalist and storyteller. The resulting album is a sun-drenched, sophisticated collection that explores themes of adult relationships, nostalgia, and personal growth.

Listen For

The Steely Dan Influence. Listen to the sophisticated, jazzy chord progressions and slick guitar licks on "Wine Glass Woman". This track showcases the album's embrace of late-70s yacht rock, blending pristine pop sensibilities with smooth West Coast R&B.

The Grooving Basslines. Pay attention to the deep, bubbling bass work on "Ay Bass Player", which serves as a vibrant spotlight for the rhythm section. The bassline anchors the song's playful energy and demonstrates how rhythm-forward this record is.

The Transition in "Crime". Notice how "Crime" shifts from a laid-back, mid-tempo groove into a bouncy, synth-heavy hook. The dynamic contrast between the verses and the chorus creates a catchy, radio-friendly tension.

The Falsetto on "Her Favorite Song". Listen for Hawthorne's effortless vocal delivery in the chorus of "Her Favorite Song". His smooth falsetto glides over the sleek, electronic-tinged production, showcasing his evolution as a versatile lead vocalist.

Nostalgia and Family History. The track "Reach Out Richard" offers a rare, vulnerable glimpse into Hawthorne's personal life as he addresses his relationship with his father. This introspective lyricism stands in stark contrast to the upbeat, groove-heavy nature of the surrounding tracks.