Jason Mraz's new album is sort of about realizing he's bi, but really about learning to live

With a few hundred fans gathered on the rooftop of the Grammy Museum for the release party for his eighth studio album, “Mystical Magical Rhythmical Radical Ride,” Jason Mraz took a beat before deciding to share news of his divorce for the first time Thursday. And it is this stage of his life — single, out — that informs a deeply personal album, starting in the first track: I’m the same as I was when I was a kid I always knew I would make it It’s in my blood, it’s in my tears I stand up here naked With all my love and no more fear I am the spark in the darkness I’ve done my time, I did my part But I’m just getting started We all are, really. However, now that he’s made his broken heart known to the world, one can’t help but listen to “Mystical” with different ears: Away I go searching for the end of the rainbow Someone keeps moving the pot of gold Feels like I’m chasing my shadow I’m a lovesick Romeo It can be hard, silencing everyone else’s shoulds and coulds long enough to hear your own voice. Voices Granderson: Hey, straight guys, be like Tyler James Williams, not Josh Hawley Speculation about the sexuality of the ‘Abbott Elementary’ star prompted an insightful take on the cruel effects of policing masculinity. However, what makes this release so timely is unquestionably the lyrics: You’re often misunderstood Some people just wish they could Do what they want F’ing the shoulds Just go enjoy your life Stop trying to get it right I’m celebrating my time that’s remaining Working or playing At times his words feel more like reminders for himself than encouragement for others, which makes sense.