Hearts And Bones

Obviously, Simon is a genius songwriter, but why do all of the songs sound so sad? Even when the lyrics are funny and the melody a bit silly, they are melancholy at the same time. It's the '80s; music is supposed to be upbeat or at least more intense. I like this album, but I'll probably never listen to most of it again.

Been listening to this one all day. I really like almost every song. I’m feeling like a 4.5+ I really like Paul Simon.

I have developed such a soft spot for Paul Simon. This is sweet. Laid back, but also psychoanalytical, and it reminds me a little teeny bit of Daniel Lopatin's work. Cars are Cars is utter dogshit though.

gostei bastante, não conhecia.

Really good production, need to hear it again to see how replayable it is

9/10 welp, the chorus to Cars Are Cars is gonna be stuck in my head for an annoyingly long time

I’ll be honest and tell you that my eyes rolled a little bit when I saw this album pop up and figured it was just the result of some Paul Simon fanboys on the editorial team for the book. After all, I consider myself a Paul Simon fan (though I stop short of being a fanboy) and I’d never even heard of it! It turns out I just don’t explore enough because this does in fact kick ass and even though it seems unfair for Paul Simon to have at least three albums on here (because surely Graceland at least is still coming up, right?), I agree you should listen to it before you die. The only thing that sucks about it is that it sounds like Paul was a dick to Art during the making of it and that the experience broke the Garfunkelian camel’s back, leaving all of us without the opportunity to hear what the two of them could have gone on to do together.

A hidden gem! I knew albums before and after but hadn’t heard this one…only a couple songs from it. Great album!

Wow I really really liked this album. I knew I was a fan of Simon and Garfunkel but I don’t think I’ve ever listened to Simon on his own and I loved it. It sounded similar to his duo work and there wasn’t a part i didn’t like.

Probably my favourite PS album.

Think too much (a) is amazing. Cars are cars - good as well. 5. Excellent album.

You'll never see me give a Paul Simon album not a 5. That being said, this one is lower on the list of 5s for me, even though Hearts and Bones is one of his best songs. Enjoyed the acoustic versions at the end of the deluxe re-release, especially the Everybody Love the Sounds Of A Train In the Distance.

Always great!!

Man, Paul Simon, huh? Pretty great, this guy. Should have given Graceland a 5, but I didn't so I'll make up for that. Happily. Even with the Sesame Street skit. Music to feel good to.

Excellent album, a bit uneven, with some classic Simon songs.

Lovely album

my favorite paul simon album and one if my favorite albums all time. The Lat Great Johnny Ace, Renee and Georgie Magritte, Hearts and Bones, Train in the Distance- some songs may not match up but i love the whole album

Really enjoyed this! I have always enjoyed his music...so calming and soothing.

I think Paul Simon is finally growing on me I really liked this one, except for the one about cars that was annoying asf

One of the best!

i grew up listening to him!

Love me some Paul Simon, fantastic lyricist and musician.

Excellent - did not recognize it when it came out. Only the later ones.

All of Paul Simon's music makes me feel good. Really enjoyed this.

Easiest 5 stars yet. Paul Simon is a genius and it’s an honour to get to listen to his work.

Great lyricism and calming music.

Hit a diamond in the rough with this one. Fantastic album front to back.

People should be beating off to Paul Simon the way they do to Bob Dylan. What a talent. Really pleasant album and better than Dylan in so many more ways. 8/10.

Considered a commercial flop, but as true fans of Simon know, this is among his best work. Personal and from the heart, exploring feelings we all have. Some great songs on here and his vocals are perfect. This album makes me feel something his biggest releases don’t even.

4.5

Standout Tracks: Allergies, Hearts And Bones, Think Too Much (a), René and Georgette Magritte with Their Dog after the War

Good stuff

So, this was a surprise. If you'd asked me about Paul Simon albums, I could have told you there was "the one from 1975" with all the good songs and then "Graceland" in 1986, which I owned, and listened to over and over and over back in the day. You then might have pointed out, "Late in the Evening" came from a 1980 album, and I'd say, "Oh yeah, I love that song, too." So for our first Paul Simon album to be this one from 1983, it was a surprise. But again, such a joyful surprise! There's not a song I didn't love. I love the sound of all these songs. I love the lyrics. "Allergies" is such a fun song! "René and Georgette Magritte with Their Dog After the War" is so lovely lovely lovely! The rest of the songs are all very fun ("Cars are Cars"), or painfully lovely, or both. "The smartest people in the world/Had gathered in Los Angeles/To analyze our love affair/And possibly unscramble us." !!! "Hearts and Bones" says SO much with just the lyric "the arc of a love affair." Man. Love this one. Love Paul Simon. Glad for this one.

Yep!

This album is not without some 80s cheese and some of the songs seem rather pedestrian in their themes (Allergies? Cars Are Cars? Write what you know, I guess). But Paul Simon is a poet and a prophet who can write a good melody and some great lyrics. (I also forget sometimes how freaking funny he can be.) I understand why I missed this album in 1983 --- it was a little grown-up for my 15-year-old tastes. But this sure appeals to me now. The title track, Song About the Moon, Think Too Much, and Rene and Georgette Magritte... are all really nice pieces of music. Train in the Distance and The Late Great Johnny Ace gave me chills.

Im giving it a 5 because I got it at a very fitting time,

I can't believe I haven't heard of any of these songs prior to this! Paul Simon is a genius.

Fantastic album full of Simon's trademark humor and creativity!

It's really good, I love rock and pop, this album actually combines them really good, nice

Loved this album.

One of my faves

Just such a naturally appealing voice.

539/1089 - Pleasant with some slight hints of Yacht Rock. I like Graceland a bit better overall.

I will not include the bonus tracks for the 2004 CD reissue in this review. Alright, this is the last Paul Simon solo record for my album journey. Weirdly, I haven't gotten any Simon & Garfunkel records yet. Funny enough, Hearts and Bones was intended to be a Simon & Garfunkel album, following the success of their first live album, The Concert in Central Park. But in the end, Paul decided the material being written was too personal, and turned it into a solo album. This annoyed Art to the point where he never wanted to work on another album with Paul again. So, was it worth it for Paul to make this into a solo record? Well.... Let me start by saying there are moments on this record that truly reflect the deep introspection Paul was going for. It is rather apparent in the text that Paul was affected by his past relationships. The reference to Kathleen Mary Chitty on "The Late Great Johnny Ace" in relation to what was going on in 1964, the detailed fallout with his first wife, Peggy Harper, as laid bare in "Train in the Distance", the on-and-off relationship he had with actress Carrie Fisher, chronicled in the title track, his musings on the photographed couple outlined in "René and Georgette Magritte with Their Dog after the War". Even when there isn't a romantic angle, as with the tributes to R&B singer Johnny Ace, president John F. Kennedy, and singer-songwriter John Lennon on "The Late Johnny Ace", there are some profoundly poetic observations Paul makes on the people he either knew or was inspired by, with such a vibrant quiet-storm intimacy as he strummed away on his guitar. He even gets away with being self-referential on "Think Too Much" and "Song About the Moon", highlighting the struggles with songwriting that he endured in trying to get his words across. It's moments like these that make me think this album was on the cusp of greatness. Yet, there are missteps throughout this record that don't mesh well with the deeply personal moments. The opening track, "Allergies," does touch upon his relationship with Carrie Fisher, but it's admittedly hokey in using allergies as a metaphor for his hesitations to commit to his partner, even if that song does have an impressive guitar solo from Al Di Meola amidst the sweeping synthetic drums. Then there's "When Numbers Get Serious", with Paul showcasing an obsession with numbers that comes off too vague in its messaging. Circling back to "Think Too Much", there are two different versions on the original album, where part A is notable for being a funk romp with Nile Rodgers on guitar. I would have preferred if they had just kept the gentler marimba-driven part B, though admittedly without what sounded like the sampled recording of a bleating sheep in the background. Finally, the racism metaphor on "Cars Are Cars" was genuinely ham-fisted without making much of a point. Overall, there's enough merit with Hearts and Bones to say it was worth making into a Paul Simon solo record. The styling on this record certainly predates what would come with Graceland, while still having a few gems worth digging up.

3.5

Somehow, I have never come across this album before. How refreshing it is.

My initial read was "meh, not as good as the top Simon & Garfunkel albums". But after a couple of listens it's grown on me, especially the acoustic tracks at the end.

I really liked it. need to listen to more of him

Not overly serious but still has attention to detail, some groovy songs in between well thought out soft rock. A nice little sample of everything Paul Simon does

calm and cool

Every time I think I don’t like Paul Simon, he breaks my brain. This rules, with the requisite exceptions of a few terrible songs.

This is my first serious listen to a Paul Simon album for quite some time. My parents had Bridge Over Troubled Water, the songs on which are etched deep in me. Much later I listened many times to Graceland - which I thought good, then cooled on. I had some suspicion of Paul Simon's craft, the easy flow of words, what was his relation to the stylish South African music he was putting his words on top of. But, before starting to listen to this album, I read about it and its themes, I read some more about Simon generally, and his approach to songwriting, and I found myself positively disposed to hearing some poetic songs. I was not put off by the smoothness of the music created by the long roster of musicians called in to play these tracks - it's inoffensive (does deserve to be called middle of the road), but I found it entertaining, even without surprises. Simon is very American, an archetype of an upper middle class New York music industry fixture, but I can kinda get past that. I can handle songs about songwriting - Song About the Moon is actually neatly done. I realise I actually quite like "René and Georgette Magritte with their Dog After the War" - I am comfortable with the idea that Simon's songwriting (ie drafting iteratively by feeling for what words match the music) is somewhat surrealist in its approach - I feel warmly about the invocation of "the deep, forbidden music" - I feel at the moment that this is quite okay as a way to accept and enjoy this album. There are weak spots eg Allergies (Al Di Meola solo a bit too much for the song), Cars Are Cars is poor. But he does have a really nice voice. After re-listening to songs I initially flagged as my favourites, and reflecting on the album in context of the world as a whole - I think it's Good, 7/10.

It’s Paul Simon but it’s not the best Paul simon

Paul Simon is an all time top artist for me....if theres such thing as an "objective" rating of this album, it probably maxes out at a 3.5, but I love it because I had the CD when I was getting deep into him. Has some really typically excellent songs - "The Late Great Johnny Ace", "Hearts and Bones", "Rene and Georgette Magritte..." but also some goofy 80s sounds. He seems to have been a little creatively adrift during the making of this one..."Cars are Cars" sounds like Paul Simon doing a Talking Heads song, and thats not really what you go to either of those artists for. But I'm going to go 4 because I want to do justice to who I think is one of the greatest songwriters of the 20th century.

Nice and groovy rock, simple as. 4.5 bumped down to 4.

I’m at a 4.5 that I'll bump down to a 4. I mean, look, for as much as I’d love to put it all on “Cars Are Cars” as one of the silliest metaphors ever put to tape about how people are different from region to region, I actually think it’s not that bad. I liked the vast majority of these tracks, honestly. The only one that didn’t really click was “Think Too Much (a)”, but it’s just because it feels a little too hokey after the (b) version clicked well. If they had flipped in order, I think it would’ve flowed more naturally. If I tended to enjoy all 10 tracks here, why exactly am I not at a 5? It’s just a bunch of compounding things, really. For one, I just don’t think Paul Simon’s songwriting hits a consistently strong tone here. Yes, “Cars Are Cars” isn’t great, but neither is “When Numbers Get Serious”. Hell, this album opens up on “Allergies”, which looks like a Weird Al song from the lyricism alone. This album’s strength is entirely in Paul Simon’s earnest vocal performance & the instrumentation that surrounds it. Paul’s voice has genuinely never sounded better to me, and he provides a lot of gravitas here. That said, when you treat something like “Cars Are Cars” with the same gravitas as something as lovely as “Hearts and Bones” or “Train in the Distance”, it does feel a bit goofy. I think the instrumentation is great here; yes, it does feel like the most early ‘80s album to ever exist, and I’m sure that “Graceland” won’t beat those allegations either when we get to it, but while some people would see that as a negative, I see it as a positive, if only because it shows he could blend in the production of the time while retaining his own voice. That said, this album’s instrumentation occasionally fails to meet some of the gravitas Paul Simon’s vocals give off, holding this album back from soaring in a more potent way. “Train in the Distance” does a great job of building up the metaphor of an inevitability that you can envision coming to home roost, but it falls short of delivering that inevitability instrumentally. It’s the most notable on “The Late Great Johnny Ace”, which ends the album with strings that seemingly want to go somewhere, but just sort of meander after the 3 decades worth of emotional build up. Realistically, I think the biggest issue holding me back from a 5 is that the album’s overall tone just feels unrealized, or at the very least, it doesn’t feel as consistent as it’s trying to be. For an album that’s seemingly so personal to Paul that he actually canned the idea of this being a Simon & Garfunkel reunion album, it just doesn’t reflect that way. Sure, Paul Simon might think too much, but the two versions of the track here portray that inconsistent tone in the most obvious way. This album cannot decide if it wants to be a poppier ‘80s album with Paul’s folksy insights behind it, or if it wants to be a folksy ‘80s album with pop influences underneath it, and while it does generally mesh the best of both approaches, it just doesn’t feel as tonally or emotionally consistent as a result. Hence, a 4.5 that I’ll bump up down to a 4. Yes, I’ve once again spent 4 paragraphs on an album that I liked to explain a bump by half a point, but I’m just a sucker for explaining where I think good projects can tighten up to become great ones. I’m also certain that all of this album’s little issues will be tightened up by “Graceland”, so it’s good to get those thoughts down for whenever we get it. Overall, everything I mentioned is probably the reason this is at a 3 on the site, as it boils down to tolerance of all those things & for the incredibly plain percussion on each verse on “Cars Are Cars”. It is not Paul Simon’s best work, but I think its lesser tracks are nowhere near as bad as they’re made out to be. They just stick out a bit more. I happened to enjoy it, and while I wish it were a little better, it’s still good enough to warrant a 4. I do think it’s worth being on the list.

Paul Simon is a special artist. This isn’t his best work, but it’s damn good. Allergies is annoying but the rest of the album is shiny.

Paul Simon me va gustando más a medida que cumplo años. No considero este disco de los mejores, aunque hay 4 canciones muy buenas.

This was pretty good. I can appreciate how in each of Paul Simons songs you can tell that he's making an effort to introduce a new interesting sound or progression to keep the attention. I think that he largely achieves that. No hits on this one and that's fine, still a cohesive piece front to back.

Paul Simon macht mich happy

A true gift! I did not recall hearing thi on the radio when released. and "Graceland" his follow up, knocked it out of the box. So lucky me! One of a handful of albums that surprised me on this list at 884/1,001.

You can definitely hear the Graceland title track in the Hearts and Bones title track. A feeling of moving, suspended chords, and invoking open landscapes. Whilst it doesn't have the full atmospheric impact of Graceland, it's a mini classic in its own right. Whatever it's shortcomings, the melodies are consistently excellent. 'Train in the Distance' and 'René and George Magritte' are amongst the best, the latter one of his fine portraitures. The most interesting track is 'The Late Great Johnny Ace', my understanding and liking of which has developed over time. I'd assumed the end orchestration was a nod to the Beatles but it's actually Phillip Glass's composition and a fitting one at that, giving the song a grand ending, like a requiem. Continuously good to great, with a couple of too MoR or too 80s misfires, it has to be a four.

I have no complaints getting to enjoy another Paul Simon album. This is certainly not as much of an African album than the last one we listen to, but you can still hear the African influence in the bass tone and bass lines, the percussion, the harmony, etc. I think the fact that he leans into those elements and incorporates many different styles, and is and enjoyer of African music, speaks to how well he understands and worships the joy of music and creation. Many of the arrangements were kind of minimal while still grooving super hard with many groovy details. My favorite songs were "trains in the distance" and "a song about the moon." light three to a strong floor.

This one's a little difficult to rate. This album came along at a funny time (for me), since I mostly wasn't living at home anymore (except summers and Christmas), but didn't yet have money to buy that much music. But I was taping music, and Mombo & Granddad had this album. ;) But, the funny thing is, I didn't tape the whole album, just a few songs (maybe I didn't have room on the tape, but - more likely? - maybe I thought some songs were better than others. And, I guess, I still think that. Although I guess you could argue that the songs I taped had an unfair advantage. But I've listened to this twice through, and I still think the first 3 songs are sub-par Paul Simon. The songs that I taped, which I still think are the best, are "Song About the Moon," "Train in the Distance," and (especially!) the (GREAT) "Late Great Johnny Ace," with that brilliant Philip Glass finish (which I love). "Think Too Much" is good, too, especially the one that's listed as (a), but, confusingly, comes after the (b) version. This version - (a) - has the great Nile Rodgers and Bernard Edwards, from Chic, on guitar and bass. Track 8 (Magritte) is pretty good, too, while Track 9 (Cars Are Cars) is kinda forgettable. So, like I said, a sub-par Paul Simon album, so can't do 5. A little unsure about a 4, too (I wouldn't argue much, with a 3 vote), but I think I'll go with a low 4.

Actually pretty good!

i've been pretty cool on all things simon and/or garfunkel throughout the 1001, but hey, i really enjoyed this

I liked this a lot more than Graceland

Liked bits of it, some of the slower stuff bored me a little

This is a very good album to play during a rainy day

interesting history behind this album, I might listen again. cars are cars all over the world

Chill

Not my favorite album of Simon's (who, I have said previously, I've come to realize I quite like) but it's still got plenty of bright spots, like "René and Georgette Magritte with Their Dog after the War." Favorite lyric of the album: "But my heart is allergic to the women I love / And it's changing the shape of my face." In reading about this album I learned that Paul Simon was married to actress Carrie Fisher ("Hearts and Bones" is about their relationship). Wow. Luckily I was already sitting down. I must've heard that at some point before, but evidently the knowledge didn't stick.

just a delight

Aside from a couple of gems, overall not his best work. But even so, better than most!

Make sure your Allergies aren’t flaring up before you listen to this one. Oh and don’t Think Too Much

Ok

Fav- Rene and Georgette Margarette with their dog after the war 4/5

Classic!

I've never heard this album before but it's great! The magic of Paul Simon. What a great storyteller.

Si doux, parfois drole, des guitares maitrisées dans leur son, les textures, leur role leur place, qu'elles soient acoustiques ou electriques, en fingerstle, rythique ou solo, c'est beau. Hearts and Bones et Train in a Distance (acoustic)

That guitar solo in Allergies?? Cars are cars was weird tho... still a 4/10

I love Paul Simon and Train in the Distance is my favorite tune of his. The rest of the album Is really good, but not great. Strong 4.1

Paul’s got a knack and Paul’s got a style. Both undeniable things that set him apart from a lot of songwriters, especially in this era. But that being said, this isn’t his best. There are a couple classics, Paul Simon greatest here, but there are some snoozers too and A Car Is A Car. It’s been said, but someone should have said “that song is bad dude.” Interesting to know that Garfunkel was involved then scrapped. The influence is a clear shadow across the album once you’re aware. Wonder why this would have sounded like as a full Simon & Garfunkel project?

First time listen! Loved it, so many gems on this album (and the unreleased Shelter of Your Arms). Will definetely listen to revisit the soft songs, energetic songs, poetic songs and the stories they tell. 1. Train in the Distance 2. Song About the Moon 3. René and Georgette Magritte with Their Dog After the War

Gentle folksy pop, with "world music" leanings

He's such a talented lyric'ist and his instrument choices are so unique.

I love Paul Simon

Decent for Paul Simon, which means its a pretty good album

*❤️s➕ 🦴s* I'm not as high on this one as most. It's probably my second least favorite of his solo albums up to *Saints*. But tbh that run of albums is pretty great. This album four songs really stand out the title track. "Song About the Moon", "Think Too Much (a)" and "Train in the Distance" all kinda hearken back to his 70s swagger. I liked the bonus acoustic version of "René and Georgette" better than the saccharin production of the album version. And "The Late Great Johnny Ace" just kinda meanders to me. Again another song of the lore (the 1981 Central Park incident) is more interesting than the song itself. Interesting that the worst song on the album "Cars Are Cars", I can her the bones of "You Can Call Me Al" (just not the heart, lol). 8.75 ★★★★

Wings + Simon and/or Garfunkel have been my biggest surprises doing this. Consistently surprise by being great. 2000s era metalhead me would be aghast. 3.5 rounded up

i haven’t heard this one yet, but my friend loves graceland. first paul simon album on the list. this thing is pretty gorgeous. goddamn there’s a lot of people on this album. very pleasant way to start easter morning.

Calm, pleasant music, quality arrangements — what more could you need? Then again, maybe I'm just getting old...

Lyricism wasn’t great but vocals were nice and instrument variety and overall vibe were pretty solid

It good, listened while driving

Yep, decent, felt it was as good as Graceland to be honest.

Mr. Simon has really become one of my favorite songwriters in the last couple of years as I become more and more attached to the work of S&G as well as his self-titled record. It's honestly refreshing to see another of his records, outside of the 1972 s/t and Graceland, get some attention, although I hadn't heard anything off this album up to today. Well, I heard the Central Park live version of "Late Great Johnny Ace", but that's it. The softer sophisti-pop angle this takes on some tracks really speaks to my current musical fixation, and I think this is a pretty interesting direction for Simon to take right before he'd plunge pretty deeply into world music; sort of an Eno-in-1981 thing, minus the genre-defining experimentation that came before it. A really nice record. The title track and "Rene and Georgette Magritte with Their Dog After The War" are among his best.

The guitar work on here is fabulous and Simon's vocals are as always impeccable. I am a big fan, but this disc lacks the spectacular originality of of his best work.

If nothing else this list has grown my appreciation for this man’s music. So much ambition that can take odd ideas and fully flesh them out

This was great. Absolutely true that it was overshadowed by Graceland.

Man, back to back Paul Simon (minus Garfunkel today). I really enjoyed it. Simon has quite a way with lyrics. I also enjoy his cadence in the delivery. Aside from a handful of hits, I’m not very familiar with his solo work. If I have time today, this will get a second spin. The acoustic demos on the expanded edition are also very good.

I generally like Paul Simon, but I hardly recognize any of these songs, which I find surprising.

Paul is like a warm blanket for my soul.

I really enjoyed the first half of this. The second half was not as strong. The mix is spacious, his voice is great, and there are some nice songs. Just crept into being a 4.

not as good as Graceland but still pretty good

Really enjoyed this one

It feels like Paul Simon in a quieter, more inward mood. The lyrics are super simple and almost childlike at times but there’s something really comforting about them. It’s not trying to be flashy or profoundn but it still sits with you. That said, when you stack it up against his bigger solo highs or the stuff he did with Garfunkel, it doesn’t hit the same emotional peak. Solid record, a few beautiful moments.

Chyba najsłabszy Simon na tej liście. Bez polotu i chyba trochę też bez weny. Nadal bywa błyskotliwy i melodie potrafią być chwytliwe, ale brakuje w nich tego przebłysku geniuszu. 6.5/10 równane w górę, być może tylko z sentymentu

At first I wasn’t too sure about this album, but I ended up enjoying it more than I thought I would. It definitely feels a little more experimental compared to what Paul Simon was doing back in the 70s. This one leans into more sophisticated 80s textures, synthesizers, layered production, and a more polished studio sound. Something else I found interesting is that it originally started out as another Simon & Garfunkel album, but the project eventually evolved into a solo Simon release. The material was just too personal, and that ended up steering him away from the partnership with Art Garfunkel.

Some great songs here but the other albums I’ve heard were better.

Очень тепло отношусь к дуэту Simon & Garfunkel, но почему-то до сольного творчества Саймона так и не добрался. Очередной удачный пик, сокращающий мой bucket list. Приятный и уютный альбом, который начинается с неожиданного поп-звучания открывающей Allergies, но потом титульная песня возвращает тебя в русло той самой обволакивающей гитарной музыки, знакомой по записям дуэта. Большая часть альбома все же остается синтезаторной и местами фанковой, все-таки уже 80-е на дворе. Но особая мелодика Саймона и простые, но жизненные тексты делают альбом очень личным, как будто поют специально для тебя. Фирменная атмосфера дуэта здесь прослеживается неспроста - оказывается, Гарфанкел работал с Саймоном над этим альбомом, рассчитывая выпустить совместную запись. Но Пол в итоге передумал, решив, что он слишком личный, чем оборвал все шансы на воссоединение. Тем не менее, добротная пластинка, которой не хватает разве что запоминающихся хитов.

Секс-символы в прошлом веке, конечно, были разные. Перед глазами проносится весь глубокий дикий лор срачей Артика и Пола (спасибо одной давней знакомой за ее гиперфикс). Альбом прикольный. When numbers get serious это вайб. Ржу, что это должен быть альбом дуэта, но потом человек резко переобулся. Как же они чувствовали.

This album had a great vibe with some really catchy songs. I really like Paul Simon and o don’t think it is his best album, but it was definitely worth a listen.

It's pretty cool, not as riveting as the last one, but it's a little weird hearing 80s sound on Paul Simon who exudes in his acousticness. Like he's still making ballads but in electric guitar? It's ok. 7/10

Solid Paul Simon, more accessible and, yes, better than "Graceland" which was just too much for me tbh.

Not his best work but still enjoyable.

Was debating whether to give it a 5 stars, but I feel like Graceland is even better so I’ll wait it out. What a great album. Not a single skip. Amazing lyricism. Song About the Moon is probably my favourite!

This is really good

Fantastic album

good folk album, has the ceiling of folk though

Solid stuff.

Nice and chill album. Relaxing.

Peaceful Simon's voice and nice ballads melodies ! Felt really connected to it while suffering from allergies during my holidays

A fun and enjoyable record.

Цей альбом дійсно відрізняється від попередніх

Underrated album, something of a sonic dead end/wrong turn. The arrangements sound like someone trying to come to terms with what was then "new technology", so at times they're not what you tend to think of as "Paul Simon". But it's definitely Paul Simon. Sitting between his multiple 70's solo successes and the gargantuan "Graceland", it's little wonder that "Hearts and Bones" gets a little lost, but "Rene and Georgette..." and "The Late Great Johnny Ace" have become beloved mainstays of Simon's live sets and they stand up strongly amongst more commercially popular items.

Paul Simon is one of those artists who is just impossible to hate. This might not be your favourite thing ever, but if you have ears then you must be able to appreciate his talent and still think that this at least makes for good background music.

7 Who gave Paul Simon the right to be this bloody cute!!

Alright, but not as good as Still Crazy After All These Years

Great chill vibes. None of his big hits, but I enjoyed "Allergies" and "Hearts and Bones" quite a lot.

Hearts and Bones & Train in the Distance are two of my favorite Paul Simon songs. With that being said this album is NOT required listening. If this album made the list but Still Crazy After All These Years, There Goes Rhymin Simon and hell even Rhythm of the Saints don’t… this list will be null and void

I know quite a lot of Paul Simon's music. I don't think I had ever heard a single song on this album. There are some good songs on here. First impression of "Allergies" is that it was song written for Sesame Street. After a few listens I liked it more. I think this album would be a hidden gem upon multiple listens. I also really liked "The Late Great Johnny Ace".

This was cool, just the right amount of weird (allergies!), and the distant trains one hits hard. Some hints of graceland, and for a cool change, it was entirely new to me.

Solid record, a lot of things I like about this but Car is a car is a sin so it's a low 4

Very good record from a great artist.

Another good Paul Simon album. I really appreciate his ability to incorporate world music stuff into his music while retaining his own sound. 3.5/5

Might be biased because I do enjoy his music a lot, though I never ventured past Graceland and some of his hits. I enjoyed it a lot I love his voice.

This is one of those albums that got lost in a career. Not widely heralded in its time, it has gained acclaim retrospectively. It’s a strong record that was called “way too personal to be a Simon & Garfunkel record”. Maybe. I’m no expert. But it is a product of its time. Too much 80’s production over what would seem to be introspective folk songs. I can see why it’s gained acclaim. It’s a good record.

Not my favourite Paul Simon. But like a friendly uncle he’s always there with a smile.

Overraskende bra! Aldri hørt noe særlig på Simon før, men albumet treffer godt, spesielt et par av låtene ble lagret!

Yeah! Ok! Train ride or whatever

As with many other artists, the 80s were not kind to Mr. Simon's work. His brilliance shines through but the production is at times . . . over.

Дон Симон, с которым мы уже знакомились и не раз, умудрился данным релизом меня удивить. Молодец дон Симон, с меня фунфырик ❤️

pretty good. he has better

Etonnant qu'il arrive encore à sortir des albums comme ça

My first time voluntarily listening to Paul Simon on his own and not as part of Simon & Garfunkel. I really enjoyed it! The songs are kinda nerdy, singing about numbers, the moon, and the brain, and I dig it. It’s a nice change of pace, fun to listen to. Singing is great and the instrumentation is too, with some great guitar that sounds like a Stratocaster on one of the middle pickup configurations. An enjoyable listen, have saved this album for the future.

At first I wasn’t too sure about this album, but I ended up enjoying it more than I thought I would. It definitely feels a little more experimental compared to what Paul Simon was doing back in the 70s. This one leans into more sophisticated 80s textures, synthesizers, layered production, and a more polished studio sound. Something else I found interesting is that it originally started out as another Simon & Garfunkel album, but the project eventually evolved into a solo Simon release. The material was just too personal, and that ended up steering him away from the partnership with Art Garfunkel.

Paul Simon is probably one of the best melody writers. Each song in this is just exquisite. The only problem with the album is that it's not Graceland.

Favorite Track: Hearts and Bones

Fantastic album - might even be a five after a few more listens. The Train in the Distance is a great song

Letras bonitas, melodías suaves y una melancolía extraña que se instala durante la escucha. Al parecer este álbum es inmediato a la reunión fallida con Garfunkel así que imagino que eso influyó en la composición. Siento que Paul expresa una especie de sabiduría cansada, un ejercicio de introspección y contención de la euforia de otros proyectos que asoma en algunas canciones. La verdad que no soy ningún entendido de su discografía pero me gustaría escuchar más. Favs: Song About the Moon, Train in the Distance, The Late Great Johnny Ace

Un disco muy minimalista pero con mucho sentimiento detrás. Tanto, que iba a ser un disco con Garfunkel y a Simon le pareció tan personal que decidió que mejor que no. Garfunkel se cabreó y se aseguró de nunca más grabar con Simon. Escucha muy melancólica, con letras muy bonitas y, aunque algunas canciones te sacan un poco de onda, nunca es desagradable. Siempre hubo algo que me mantuvo al tanto. Excepto en Cars are Cars. A la playlist: Allergies, Hearts and Bones (no sabía que Paul Simon estuvo con Carrie Fisher), Song About the Moon, Rene and Georgette Magritte with their Dog After the War.

I'm just such a fan of Paul Simon that even a middling album from him still left me charmed and entertained for the entire listen. He writes a good and catchy song that it's hard to not find something to like. The only song that felt a bit too odd was Cars are Cars, but I'm wondering if I missed a deeper meaning to it somewhere. Still, as much as I like Paul Simon, I wonder if this is a slot that could go to a band or artist that doesn't have any representation on the list.

I’m a sucker for 80s eras for earlier artists.

The album that very nearly became a Simon & Garfunkel comeback record before Art Garfunkel cracked the shits with Paul Simon and left the project. Not that it bothered Simon much, as he was always the chief songwriter of the duo anyway. 'Hearts and Bones' is essentially about Simon's relationship with Carrie Fisher (they got married during production for the album), and serves as somewhat of a return to form for Simon, who's career had stalled somewhat heading into the 1980s. With this album, you can hear Simon starting to incorporate a strong worldly presence within the songs. This is very significant as it gave listeners a hint of what was to come a few years later on 'Graceland', his finest solo effort. But unlike 'Graceland', the lyrics on 'Hearts and Bones' are less adventurous and more centred around a select few themes: love, self-reflection and reaffirmation. Simon made the right call not to include Garfunkel on this record (although Garfunkel, by all accounts, disagreed), as its really hard to see any of these songs working as Simon and Garfunkel songs. Perhaps Simon had realised by this point in his career that Garfunkel was more hindrance than help. The songs work very well as a solo effort, and Simon has enough confidence here to take his own career in a new direction. It's no 'Graceland' to be sure, not even close, but 'Hearts and Bones' is the more subdued and bare-bones predecessor (distant cousin) to it, not unlike Bruce Springsteen's transition from 'Nebraska' to 'Born in the USA'. Best songs: Hearts and Bones, Train in the Distance, Allergies 3.5/5

Good

The album was good I enjoyed listening to it. The acoustic demo's were the best.

I enjoyed it a lot, great album.

Listened to half the album then realized it was accidentally on shuffle. Listened to it in order again and managed to still enjoy the whole thing. Nice.

--Allergies...you throwing a robotic voice at me, Paul?! A funky groove. Cool guitar solo. --Hearts and Bones...beautiful --When Numbers Get Serious...a little weird but fun --Think Too Much (b)...another beautiful song. I like that marimba (that's a marimba, right?) --Song About the Moon...It's nice, maybe a little cloying --Think Too Much (a)...Paul drops the funk again. It's good --Train in the Distance...I do love the sound of a train in the distance! --Renee and Georgette Magritte...another nice track --Cars are Cars...wtf is this? --The Late Great Johnny Ace...interesting and ambitious closer. I think I like it

Pre-listening thoughts: listen I know Paul Simon is supposedly an ass irl but I’d be lying if I said I didn’t enjoy the hell out of Graceland. So excited for this one. Post/during listening thoughts: this was very good. There’s something cheesy I can’t quite pinpoint about Paul Simon’s production that his singing voice and lyrics directly contradict, but it’s like eating apples and cheese together where you think it’s gonna be gross but it’s actually pretty yummy. Anyways I think this was a fun album with some great moments and while not quite as high of highs as Graceland, it was good all the way through. 8/10 DID I NEED TO HEAR THIS BEFORE I DIE: nah Fav tracks: When Numbers Get Serious, Song About the Moon, Think Too Much (a) Least fav tracks: Cars are Cars (what was this??)

This was a really good album, I'm not very familiar with paul Simon so I enjoyed hearing some of his other work.

3.5

Good stuff, but this just isnt on the level of Graceland. Low 4

good pre Graceland Album #albumsky #musicsky

Inte hans bästa, men bra.

Porch swing music Paul Simon is not very good at math this album feel like a warm embrace

At times beautiful at times confusing. I guess that’s Paul Simon. I’d be mad that this album contributed to he and Garfunkel never playing together again but I was born in 99 so that actually didn’t impact me all four stars

Pretty good album, an interesting mix, I quite like Paul Simon's vocals on all of them, although some of the songs are a little bit duller than I would have liked. Overall a good listen though.

Not an album I was familiar with but a catchy gem.

Surprisingly mellow and nice.

Perhaps not his best, but the man is a genius.

Big fan of Paul Simon and this has a little early 80's vibe to it.

Me gusto ! Del 1al 10 es un 7 para mi ,para iniciar el dia esta bueno

I was expecting pretty meh but ended up getting into most of the songs by the end. It does seem a step down from his best but in isolation I think it’s a solid album. He used some different effects I’ve never heard him use in his songs which was fun. It did seem like a dick move to cut out Garfunkel though Rating: 3.9

Ce n'est pas mon préféré de Paul Simon mais ça reste du Paul Simon.

thought this was really good

i actually really enjoyed that. (i say "actually" like it's a surprise I’d like a paul simon album as if i haven't been in paul simon lockdown mode for the last two weeks.) there were a lot of beautiful songs on here that had his signature poignant lyrics and guitar playing while having a little flair of other cultural/genre influences to make it feel new (Allergies, Think Too Much, Hearts and Bones), or at least had one or the other. But there were also two songs are frankly quite stupid and seem to have neither of those redeemable qualities, and it interrupted the flow and tone that the other songs had established (When Numbers Get Serious, Cars Are Cars). I honestly think if it weren't for those two songs then this album would be almost perfect. Also when he said "New Mexico" in "Hearts and Bones" it made me realize he has a very specific pronunciation of "Mexico" (also see: Only Living Boy In New York). anyway that's not that relevant I just like the paul simon dialect that seems to exist across his discography. Fav tracks: Allergies, Think Too Much (a), Train in the Distance, Rene and Georgette Magritte with Their Dog After the War

Paul Simon has been given a gift of making everything he creates sound so effortless. It's crazy how I think this is one of his weaker efforts that we've heard on this list so far (fourth or fifth album of his/S&G by now?), and I still got SO much out of many moments throughout the 55 minutes of runtime here. The title track is so placid and serene which is CRAZY considering it's clearly about his failed relationship with Carrie Fisher and also possibly about the fallout with Art Garfunkel? That'll be a big theme on this whole album. Those little tropical mallet hits at 4:10? Such a beautiful touch. Not too be too much of a downer, songs like "When Numbers Get Serious" or "Cars Are Cars" are moments of reprieve, covering still-serious matters of the heart, just with some fun jingles and one-liners. "Renee and Georgette Magritte with Their Dog After the War" is so touching, so vivid, and just so sweet. It gets at the heart of love going beyond time and location, how it endures through the hard times to find beautiful moments like them finding the cabinet with all their personally significant trinkets and moments. "The Late Great Johnny Ace" is an endearing tribute to both Johnny Ace and John Lennon. Simon weaves these impactful moments together and sticks the landing with the decision to end the song with an "Eleanor Rigby" style string section. The only thing this album has wowrking against it is that I'm not sure how the track sequencing feels to my ears. All the acoustic versions are fine, but some of the 'full' song versions are already sonically mellow and dont differentiate themselves a ton from alternate versions. I also think this project meanders a bit for moments. I was gonna give this album a strong 3/5 but damnit I just can't go that low. Paul Simon is an incredible singer/songwriter who once again masters the art of injecting his personality into these songs while also telling colorful stories. There are songs about partnerships completely falling apart on here, songs about one's brain not being able to shutup - and he makes all of these sound so easy on the ears, sometimes fun even! It is perhaps my biggest positive discovery to find how much I like everything I've heard from him thus far. 4/5

Solid Paul Simon.

Ooh... sexy! I've lowk never heard of this album OR Paul Simon. But this is delicious so far. This is music I'd listen to in Hawaii. It's a little bit Jack Johnson. It's very '80s which I guess is appropriate. Quick little multiplication lesson in When Numbers Get Serious. Very pretty and easy listening.

Nice music to calm down (from vacations :) I like the calm atmosphere, no showing off, pleasant melodies with nice acoustic parts.

Another great Paul Simon album. By this point I know what to expect - quirky little distractions all gentle and mild with subtle influences from far and wide. Never an obvious choice made. This one loses a star for the heavy reliance on very cheap, dated synthesised sounds, but it’s still charming as heck. He’s a total one off.

That guitar solo on Allergies was a trip! This album was great, Paul Simon is great.

3.5/5

a v funny first encounter on this list with simon and/or garfunkel. even my copy of the book seems confused as to why its here, with its closing statement not being a reflection on the album but instead being like "it didnt do very well but then he made graceland so it was okay" FHJJKFHSJKSFHSF. in any case this is nice! simon's a predictably sturdy songwriter, but the main distinguishing factor is surely the very chintzy and sometimes eccentric production...it being the "best fit" is probably well-contested but i have a soft spot for this kinda thing. still, i feel like i lack the tools to fully interface w/ this atm...i need to refresh myself on his more traditional material first!

Not as good as Graceland

Chill jó hangzású fun lemez

Solid

Pode me dar um tiro, se quiser, mas eu prefiro esse disco ao Graceland. O segundo lado dele é brilhante. A voz do Simon flutua deliciosamente sobre os instrumentais suaves. Muito agradável de ouvir, easy listening total. Gostoso e amigável. A ultima faixa é especialmente linda, um tributo maravilhoso. 4/5

Enjoyable narrative songs. At work.

This is not an album I’d have on repeat, but there are some good songs that I enjoyed. Good mixture of funky tunes and good singing by Paul Simon. My favorite was think too much(b). 8/10

There are moments and songs on this album I would love to give 5 stars. The title track is one of those, and being the second song it set my expectations incredibly high. Ultimately those moments are too sporadic and the album as a whole can have too much going on musically at times. That’s not to say there aren’t many great moments though. All the stripped back acoustic versions are less adventurous but the guitar playing, Paul Simon’s writing, and vocal ability are enough to carry them.

Quaint

Simon and Garfunkel is one of my favorite groups, this wasn't quite at that level, but I enjoyed it

I think the record overall is fine. It's no Graceland, but it is a stronger album than One Trick Pony. Standouts for me are the title track, "René and Georgette Magritte with Their Dog after the War", and "The Late Great Johnny Ace".

## In-Depth Review of Paul Simon’s *Hearts and Bones* **Hearts and Bones** (1983) stands as one of Paul Simon’s most personal, intricate, and, paradoxically, underappreciated works. Although a commercial disappointment upon release, the album has since been recognized for its lyrical depth, musical innovation, and emotional honesty, marking a pivotal moment in Simon’s career. This review will examine the album’s lyrics, music, production, themes, and influence, followed by a balanced assessment of its strengths and weaknesses. --- ## Lyrics **Autobiographical Precision and Poetic Innovation** The lyrics on *Hearts and Bones* are among the most introspective and sophisticated of Simon’s career. The title track, inspired by Simon’s tumultuous relationship with Carrie Fisher, is a masterclass in autobiographical songwriting. Simon’s approach was to begin with a factual statement-“One and one-half wandering Jews”-as a way to avoid cliché and ground the song in reality[1]. This line, both humorous and poignant, sets the stage for a nuanced exploration of love’s fragility and endurance. Throughout the album, Simon experiments with blending conversational, vernacular language with enriched, poetic imagery. He repeats lines that aren’t the title, a device he would later refine on *Graceland*[1]. For example, in “Hearts and Bones,” the recurring phrase “the arc of a love affair” encapsulates the song’s essence, while lines like “decades gliding by like Indians” emerge as spontaneous, evocative images[1]. Other tracks, such as “Train in the Distance,” reflect on romantic discord and the illusions that sustain relationships, while “The Late Great Johnny Ace” meditates on loss, referencing both the murder of John Lennon and the mythology of pop music[4]. The lyrics throughout are narrative yet poetic, weaving together disparate images that touch on love, loss, and the human experience[3]. **Emotional Honesty and Universality** Simon’s lyrics on this album are deeply personal but resonate universally. Songs like “Hearts and Bones” and “Train in the Distance” explore the dissolution of relationships, nostalgia, and the passage of time, inviting listeners to reflect on their own experiences[5]. Even the lighter moments, such as the two versions of “Think Too Much,” reveal Simon’s self-awareness and humor in confronting his own tendencies[2]. --- ## Music **Stylistic Diversity and Musical Craftsmanship** Musically, *Hearts and Bones* showcases Simon’s versatility. The album moves between genres, incorporating elements of jazz fusion, doo-wop, rock & roll, and contemporary pop[4]. Simon’s own acoustic guitar work is exquisite, and the musicianship throughout is impeccable, featuring contributions from luminaries such as Jeff Porcaro, Richard Tee, Eric Gale, Steve Gadd, Al Di Meola, and Airto Moreira[2]. The title track is particularly notable for its use of shifting time signatures: verses in 7/4 create a sense of unease and tension, while the chorus resolves into 4/4, mirroring the emotional journey of the lyrics[5]. This rhythmic complexity is matched by intricate arrangements-warm guitars, melodic bass, rich keyboard textures, and inventive percussion beds[2]. “Rene and Georgette Magritte with Their Dog After the War” exemplifies Simon’s new direction, blending minimalist influences (Philip Glass contributed the orchestral coda to “The Late Great Johnny Ace”) with lush, melodic pop[2][4]. The album’s sound is heartfelt and unique, foreshadowing the polyrhythms and sonic experimentation of *Graceland*[2]. --- ## Production **Inventive and Intimate Soundscapes** Simon himself was reportedly dissatisfied with the production, believing he had written good songs but made bad records out of them[2]. However, many critics and fans disagree, citing the album’s inventive and intimate production as a strength. The sound is warm and detailed, with subtle polyrhythms and careful layering of instruments[2]. Notably, the album features collaborations with dance music producer Nile Rodgers and minimalist composer Philip Glass, adding contemporary and avant-garde touches to Simon’s established palette[4]. The rhythm sections are tender and supportive, never overwhelming the songs’ emotional core. **Production Highlights** - Al Di Meola’s guitar solo on “Allergies” is fast, furious, and fluid, providing a jolt of energy. - The orchestral coda on “The Late Great Johnny Ace” adds a haunting, plaintive finish. - Airto Moreira’s percussion and Steve Gadd’s drumming bring subtle rhythmic complexity throughout[2]. --- ## Themes **Love, Loss, and the Passage of Time** The central theme of *Hearts and Bones* is the complexity of human relationships-particularly romantic ones-and the emotional turbulence of love, loss, and reconciliation[5]. The title track, rooted in Simon’s relationship with Carrie Fisher, explores the intertwining of two lives and the pain of separation[5]. The recurring motif of “hearts and bones” symbolizes both emotional vulnerability and physical resilience[3]. Other songs address the illusions that sustain relationships (“Train in the Distance”), the mythology of pop culture and mortality (“The Late Great Johnny Ace”), and the search for meaning in middle age[4]. The album is suffused with nostalgia, regret, and a mature understanding of life’s impermanence. **Duality and Reflection** Simon’s lyrics often juxtapose idealism with harsh reality, as in the line: “And the sound of the rain on the roof/And the eyes of the people who are crying”[3]. This duality-hope and sorrow, connection and isolation-runs throughout the album, making it emotionally resonant and thematically rich. --- ## Influence **Critical Reappraisal and Lasting Legacy** Although *Hearts and Bones* was a commercial disappointment-the lowest-charting new studio album of Simon’s career-it has since been recognized as one of his most ambitious and best works[4]. The album’s personal vision and stylistic experimentation paved the way for *Graceland*, where Simon would further develop the lyrical and musical innovations introduced here[1][4]. The album’s influence is evident in Simon’s later work, particularly in his use of enriched language, repetition, and rhythmic experimentation[1]. “Hearts and Bones” has become a staple of Simon’s live shows and is frequently cited by fans and critics as one of his finest songs[5]. Its exploration of universal themes ensures its continued relevance and impact[3][5]. --- ## Pros and Cons | Pros | Cons | |----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | Lyrically profound, blending autobiography with universal themes | Commercial failure at the time of release | | Musically diverse, with innovative time signatures and arrangements | Some tracks are perceived as weaker, creating a sense of inconsistency[1] | | Impeccable musicianship from a roster of legendary session players | Simon himself was dissatisfied with the production, though this is debated[2] | | Inventive and intimate production, foreshadowing *Graceland* | The album’s introspective tone may feel somber or inaccessible to some listeners | | Emotional honesty and vulnerability, rare in mainstream pop | Lacks the immediate catchiness of Simon’s biggest hits | | Standout tracks (“Hearts and Bones,” “Train in the Distance,” “Rene and Georgette Magritte”)| Some experimental elements may alienate fans of Simon’s earlier, more straightforward style | | Thematic cohesion and mature reflection on love, loss, and time | The album’s reputation suffered due to its initial commercial performance | --- ## Conclusion *Hearts and Bones* is a masterful, deeply personal album that captures Paul Simon at a crossroads-artistically, emotionally, and thematically. Its introspective lyrics, innovative music, and inventive production make it a standout in Simon’s discography, even if its initial reception was lukewarm. The album’s exploration of love, loss, and the passage of time is both specific and universal, ensuring its continued relevance and influence. While not every track reaches the heights of the title song or “Rene and Georgette Magritte with Their Dog After the War,” the album as a whole is a testament to Simon’s artistry and willingness to take risks. Its strengths far outweigh its weaknesses, and its legacy has only grown with time, marking it as a hidden gem that rewards repeated listening and careful attention.

Good one.

I'm just about 300 albums in, and I'm kinda sad that this is my penultimate Simon record. I've already gotten all three S&G, Graceland, and now this. Only the eponymous remains. But Hearts & Bones. I hadn't heard a few of these tracks. Was that a goat maa-ing on "Think Too Much?" Odd. I've had the title track stuck in my head since listening and I'm not mad about it. I hear the, er, bones of Graceland here.

Catchy songs with weird narrative lyrics - the Paul Simon Experience

Good album, classic Paul Simon.

This was a very decent and nice Paul Simon album!

I mostly missed this one when it came out. All good, some great. I’m a bit obsessed with Johnny Ace now.

Paul Simón is great and that is evident here with a less than marquee album that still entertains completely and thoroughly.

I need to listen to Paul Simon more often. Every time I do, I remember how much I like his music. 4

8/10 Favorite Tracks: Hearts and Bones, Train in the Distance Least Favorite: Cars are Cars, The Late Great Johnny Ace

Paul Simon is an American treasure, somehow underrated despite his fame. I’d never heard this album, but greatly enjoyed it. It’s hard not to compare it to Graceland, which I think is one of the best albums of all time, and this one may need a few more listens, but it sounds on par for Simon.

så jäkla bra, dom två sista låtarna var kassa ganska men annars är det ju skitbra alltså. kanske en fyra eller en femma. får se vad det landar i. det får bli en fyra. rene and georgette magritte låten var inte heller så bra. men det är ändå jävla bra. låt 2-7 är fantastiska

I preferred the folk acpustic sections to the synth stuff but overall really good stuff.

In 1988 I took an excellent songwriting class at Berklee College of Music. It was taught by Pat Pattison: https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pat_Pattison We spent a weird amount of time on this album. I had never heard it or even of it prior to the class but it was fun to be forced to focus on it so intently. So nostalgic for me to listen to this now but also what I like about this is that it was made in a weird gap period that has been pretty well overlooked but nevertheless he was still reaching and producing even though relatively few people gave a shot at this time and I respect that. My favorite tunes are The Late Great Johnny Ace, Rene and Georgette Magritte With Their Dog After The War and the title track.

Really enjoyed this album. it is very soothing. I was surprised by the solo guitar in the first song and thought "Is that Al Di Meola" ...and it was. feels like "Allergies" and "Cars are Cars" are extended commercial jingles.

fun artsiness to hold the people over until graceland

Hearts and Bones and Train in the Distance are so beautiful that it hardly matters what the rest of the album sounds like. There are some real clunkers. Overall it’s unfocused, or like he was trying out contemporary styles that just don’t suit him. But what is good, is fucking amazing.

Even the not so great Paul Simon albums have a couple bangers, namely Train in the Distance and Rene and Georgette Magritte in this case

Another super solid album by Paul Simon. This one might be slightly too melancholic for me, but his aura makes everything better. Always a good record.

Release the Garfunkel cut!

A solid album from Paul Simon. It's not Graceland, but it's not trying to be either.

Album hasn't clicked with me yet, maybe in the future.

This record sat in my store for 3 years. Even when we were low on good stuff no one touched it, so imagine my surprise to it on the 1001 list and it totally soft rocked.

A little samey at times but on the whole enjoyable! 3.5 rounded up Fun connection to yesterday's: Big Mama Thornton wrote Ball and Chain on Cheap Thrills, who was in the room when Johnny Ace shot himself.

Hated it after the opener. But it improves. Then it doesn't. Paul Simon writes some good songs. And then he writes some shite. A lot of the lyrics sound like he got them from a Christmas cracker. No Bob Dylan there. Better tunes though. Overall a "nice" album.

Not heard this album before, took me a couple of run throughs to get it, always struggle a bit to get into the classic Paul Simon 'jingle jangle' sounds, on the surface the lyrical content seems a bit random but a closer inspection reveals clever use of words and poignant analogies. It went from a two, to three and ended up landing at a "I need a physical copy" four ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Melodischer Pop, schön zu hören. 4/5

Listened Before? N A really great album. Knowing the backstory with Art Garfunkel, I actually am of the possibly unpopular opinion that he was correct to keep this as a solo project. I don't feel like this could have been a S&G album and kept the same feel and atmosphere. Added to Library? Y Songs added to playlist: Hearts and Bones

I'd never heard any of these songs before yesterday, so was pleasantly surprised how much I liked it. I think this was just before Graceland, and in several songs you can really hear that world music sound starting to get in. Very enjoyable album.

Underrated.

Paul has an amazingly smooth but clear voice that elevates this album very well and a way with words to pivot this voice. Fascinating instrumentation that makes very complicated rhythms sound very succinct. Excited to hear more from Paul Simon. Favourite song - Train in the Distance

Ekki hans besta verk, en eftir fjórar hlustanir hef ég hækkað dóminn úr þristi í fjarka. Hann er enda afskaplega ljúfur flytjandi og lunkinn lagahöfundur, hér sem annars staðar. Verst að hann gat ekki deilt sviðsljósinu betur en raun ber vitni.

Very low key, but soothing and interesting. "Train in the Distance" is incredible.

paul simon zenei mindig ugy megnyugtatnak, nagyon szeretem, bar van a tarsolyaban jobb album ezert csak a negy csillag:)

Kedvenc/Favourite: When Numbers Get Serious Kedves kis album, volt egy-két felejthető szám, de összességében tetszett. A szövegek szépeket mesélnek, a dallamok is fülbemászóak. Kéne még bele valami kis umpf, akkor még jobb lehetne. It was a nice little album, there were a couple of forgettable songs, but overall I liked it. The lyrics tell a nice story, the melodies are catchy. If it had a little more oomph, it could be even better.

Paul is a genius and has so much quality output through his career. Hearts And Bones is not my favourite of his solo albums but even a middling Paul Simon record is clear of much of the competition. Cars Are Cars seems to be the butt of a lot of jokes in other user reviews but I've always liked its commentary - it's not about cars at all but people - although it's not exactly a lesson in subtlety. It's one that I don't have many favourite tracks from but Paul weaves his poetry throughout and his ear for a melody is timeless. He's even able to turn 80s production into a thing of beauty, which takes some doing.

I wasn't expecting much but surprised....

Several songs intended for this album were previewed on tour, and Art Garfunkel worked on some of the songs with Simon in the studio, with an intention that the finished product would be an all-new Simon & Garfunkel studio album. Unfortunately, that was not to be as Paul Simon felt the album was too "personal". He decided to make it a solo album instead, and Garfunkel left. Paul Simon scrubbed all of this work from the album. I have to wonder if the album is on the list because of this, and the speculation as to what the album would have been. Because honestly, I don't see any other reason it's on here. Don't get me wrong, it's a good album. It's the album before his masterpiece "Graceland," which is on the list as well. And it has three of his classics: "Train In The The Distance," "Hearts and Bones," "The Late Great Johnny Ace." "René and Georgette Magritte with Their Dog after the War" I particularly liked. I think it would have been even more effective if that song and the closing song "Johnny Ace" had been switched. "The Late Great Johnny Ace" lacks finality for me. The strings just... stop playing. It gives the album more of an abrupt ending than I was expecting. Let's talk about the other songs, the ones that are NOT high in his repertoire. "Cars Are Cars"... what the heck was THAT about? I felt similar about "Allergies", but as an opening track that isn't terrible. But "Cars Are Cars" is just... yikes. I liked both versions of "Think Too Much," but (b) I probably liked slightly better. "When Numbers Get Serious" felt like it was trying to be a 'cute' song, and the novelty wore thin after a while. "Song About The Moon" is a solid b-side of a song. So we have 4 really good songs, the two versions of a song which were decent, and "Solid About The Moon". Three songs were just... poor, IMO. I still want to know why these album is as important as "Graceland" for them both be in the list. Otherwise, it's good enough for me to say a 3.5, rounded up to a 4. But it's no "Graceland"

I think can confidently say that I don't recognize a single song on this album. And I like Paul Simon and have listened to some of his stuff (some albums, lots of radio, streaming). Maybe not surprised that this album didn't fare as well - only because otherwise singles from it would've been all over the radio for years and years, like off his next album Graceland, and surely I'd recognize one. Still, I think it deserved better. I put this album on at the end of a long day while I was trying to finish something up and it was decent. But i knew I wasn't paying close attention. I got up early the next day and put this on first thing. And that's when you should listen to Paul Simon - when it's a bit dark but the sun is about to come up. It was just right. It's slick, it's melodic, it's upbeat, it's sometimes tender and sometimes goofy but always clever. Cars are Cars is a great example - an uplifting tune with what seem like silly lyrics until you realize one of the song's messages is if cars are the same wherever you go in the world, why do we/countries fight about other things? He is great at wordplay and matching his cadence to the beat, which you see in the quizzical Allergies and both Think Too Much songs, the tongue in cheek When Numbers Get Serious, and the sweetly arranged title track. Listen to this album a few times so it can grow on you; it will.

My first thought when I got this album was, does the list need yet another Paul Simon album, one that I don’t even know a single song from? Yes it does. Favorite song: allergies.

Once you realize most of these songs are about the breakdown of Simon’s marriage to Carrie Fisher, it adds a new layer of weariness and heartbreak. The John Lennon tribute is a nice closer.

Tiedän, mitä odottaa Paul Simonilta, mutta silti aina yllättää, kuinka Paul Simon Paul Simon on. Mitä nää sanoitukset on? Ja aina pehmeet kitarat päälle. Tykkään tästä, ei-ironisesti täydellä sydämellä.

Very underrated album.

Il y a des moments, dans la carrière d'un artiste, où le public et la critique se plantent. Des moments où un disque, aujourd'hui considéré comme un chef-d'oeuvre, se prend un gadin monumental à sa sortie. 1983, le monde de la pop est une fête fluo, dominée par Michael Jackson, Madonna et Prince. Deux ans plus tôt, Paul Simon, lui, triomphait avec Art Garfunkel lors d'un concert de reformation légendaire à Central Park et tout le monde attendait le retour du duo d'anges folks avec un nouvel album qui allait sceller ces retrouvailles. À la place, ils ont eu "Hearts and Bones" et ils n'ont rien compris. Il faut dire que l'album a une genèse chaotique. Il devait être le nouvel album de Simon & Garfunkel, il s'appelait "Think Too Much". Mais les tensions entre les deux hommes sont revenues au galop, Garfunkel n'aimait pas les paroles trop personnelles de Simon, et ce dernier a fini par tout effacer, ne gardant que sa propre voix et sortant le disque sous son nom. Commercialement, ce fut un suicide et le disque a à peine frémi dans les charts, devenant l'un des plus gros flops de la carrière de Simon. Et pourtant… putain, quel disque. Moi, en 1983, j'avais 13 ans. J'étais en plein dans la pop synthétique, et pour être franc, Paul Simon, c'était la musique de mes parents. Cet album est passé complètement sous mon radar et c'est des années plus tard, en bossant à la boutique, en fouillant dans les bacs à la recherche de trésors cachés, que je suis tombé dessus et la claque fut immense. "Hearts and Bones" est le disque le plus courageux, le plus intime et peut-être le plus brillant de Paul Simon. C'est l'anti-Graceland. Là où "Graceland" sera une explosion de couleurs, une fête mondiale et un succès planétaire, "Hearts and Bones" est une toile en noir et blanc, une conversation nocturne dans un appartement new-yorkais. C'est avant tout un album de rupture, celui qui chronique la fin de son mariage tumultueux avec l'actrice Carrie Fisher. Et rarement une autopsie de couple a été menée avec une telle finesse littéraire. Les paroles sont d'une précision chirurgicale, à la fois drôles, cruelles et déchirantes. Le morceau-titre est un chef-d'oeuvre absolu de narration, une nouvelle de Raymond Carver mise en musique, qui suit deux amants sur la route, mêlant l'intime et le mythique. Mais là où le disque devient fascinant, c'est musicalement. Simon, au lieu de se réfugier dans sa folk habituelle, décide de faire le grand écart. Il convoque le pape du funk-disco, Nile Rodgers de Chic, pour produire des rythmes d'une modernité folle pour un "folkeux". Écoutez "Allergies" ou "When Numbers Get Serious" : on est en plein dans le son new-yorkais du début des années 80, entre le jazz-fusion et la new wave. Et comme si ça ne suffisait pas, il va chercher le compositeur minimaliste Philip Glass pour une collaboration sur "The Late Great Johnny Ace", un hommage poignant à John Lennon. Le mec mélange le doo-wop de son enfance ("René and Georgette Magritte with Their Dog after the War", un titre surréaliste pour une chanson sublime), le rockabilly ("Cars Are Cars") et des expérimentations électroniques. C'est un grand écart permanent, mais qui ne tombe jamais. C'est audacieux, c'est cérébral, mais ça reste incroyablement touchant. Alors pourquoi le public a-t-il boudé ce joyau ? Parce qu'il était trop honnête et trop complexe. Il ne donnait pas aux gens ce qu'ils attendaient. Ils voulaient la nostalgie de "Bridge over Troubled Water", ils ont eu l'anxiété d'un quadragénaire en pleine crise existentielle. Ils voulaient des mélodies simples, ils ont eu des structures alambiquées et des paroles à tiroirs. L'album est tombé dans la crevasse entre la reformation de Simon & Garfunkel et la révolution "Graceland". C'est le destin des grands albums maudits. C'est le chef-d'oeuvre que personne n'a acheté, le secret le mieux gardé d'un des plus grands songwriters du XXe siècle. Un échec commercial, peut-être, mais une victoire artistique totale. Un 4 sur 5, sans l'ombre d'une hésitation.

chicken soup for the soul

So awesome, and I had never even seen this cover before! Love mr. Simon duh.

I'm not apologizing, I love Paul Simon. 4/5

Paul Simon goes contemporary on Hearts and Bones with all the "80s Steely Dan feat. Steve Gadd"-infused soft rock that entails. It's really not a suitable sound for him, and it desperately yearns for the African impressions that would drench the follow up, Graceland. That being said, Simon still stays true to his roots and at the core of every song is a strong sense of melody. The constant juxtaposition of sense and sensibility is intriguing - most notably on 'When Numbers Get Serious' and the beautiful 'Song About the Moon'. 'The Late Great Johnny Ace' is also a perfect closer. PS: did not expect the Nile Rodgers jump scare on 'Think Too Much (a)'

It sounds like every other Paul Simon album. Which means excellent but he sets a high bar.

Нежнятина

Paul Simon is really talented. Enjoyed this album.

Enjoyable and upbeat, but with a very calming and reserved vibe throughout. Do wish there was some more variety throughout but still not bad.

listened to again great album

Wonderful album. Paul Simon is a gifted songwriter. The melodies on this album are so warm and comforting. But there are also little complications in the music that keep it interesting. And for every line that’s heartfelt and direct there’s another one that makes you think a bit. The exact meaning isn’t always obvious. Here are two lines I like from “Train in the Distance” that are simply written but also make me think: “Everybody loves the sound of a train in the distance. Everybody thinks it’s true” “Negotiations and love songs are often mistaken for one and the same”

This record could have literally anything for lyrics or compositions and I would still really enjoy it and listen so intently- because the production is AMAZING. When "Allergies" breaks at 0:36, that is a really special sound. I'm blasting this in my studio at 8:23 in the morning on a Friday. There is a silly and kind of nerdy sound to his music that I always find myself having to embrace and play into a bit; if I don't then I think it's an easy part of his sound for me to dislike and let it discolor the rest. It's this whole image of him in his "You Can Call Me Al" video as he's this guy who is dancing around while mimicing playing a tin whistle and saxophone. It stops me in my tracks when I hear this sound in his music because it brings me to that visual and I find it kind of silly, when I don't think he intends his music to come across as that silly. I don't know why I'm brought there so often but I am and it's interesting. I'm finishing my review at around 7:30am on a Monday, and I appreciate how the sound got a little more chill after track 1. The next few generally take it a little bit easier. Cool album cover. Looks like a screenshot from an old VHS.

Good. His voice is one of my favorites. I didn’t know any songs on this album, but that doesn’t make it any less good.

Great song writer

I didn't expect to love this as much as I did. There's some beautiful songs in here. I can't wait to listen to this album even more. Cars are Cars is definitely the weakest track.

-according to rateyourmusic this is not really even a fan favorite Paul Simon album. Interestingly enough I thought it was super good. I love the variety in style and influences between the tracks, it never really got boring for me -Favorites are Allergies, Think Too Much (b) and Song About the Moon

Very typical Paul Simon sound, but no real standout song to note.

"Hearts and Bones" is the sixth solo album by singer-songwriter Paul Simon. It was written and recorded following Simon & Garfunkel's "The Concert in Central Park" in 1981. There were a few songs previewed and intended for a new Simon & Garfunkel record, "Think Too Much." Simon thought those songs were a little too personal about his relationship with Carrie Fisher and should be on a solo album instead. Well, that ended that and there was not another Simon & Garfunkel album. The album had mixed reviews, mostly positive, and, commercially, hit #35 in the US and #34 in the UK. "Allergies" begins the album with a stark synth. The hand-clap percussion kicks in. A pop melody comes. This is very 80's sounding. Electric guitar and horns. He has allergies to women he loves. "Hearts and Bones" is softer with an acoustic guitar, percussion and even Simon's singing. Marimbas are used, maybe, hinting at where he would go on his next album. Simon looks back at doomed relationships. Simon stresses that dreams and expectations often exceed the real life in "Train in the Distance." A vibraphone changes the melody vibe as does a bluesy guitar in the background. Simon was inspired by a picture "René and Georgette Magritte with Their Dog After War" he saw in Joan Baez's living room to write a song of the same name. There's doo-wop backing vocals and strings are finally added. The album closer "The Late Great Johnny Ace" has Simon reflecting on his life in 1954, 1964 and 1980 as some big musical news happens. One happy, two sad..a very unique lyrical approach. Strings add to the emotion of the events. I really connected with this album after a few plays. It is very stark, personal and 80's sounding at times. But, you start to notice rhythmic hints of very he would go next with "Graceland." Not all the songs are downbeat; in fact a few are pretty meaningless omes which are fun. He changes the pace with strings and horns. I would not put this album at the top of Simon's discography but it has some good moments and worth a listen.

Paul Simon is a funny little man Has a strange way of writing but I love it Good music

One of my (even potentially in my top three) albums of all time is Paul Simon's Graceland. It is a wonderous work of art. But this was no "one off" album and Hearts and Bones proves that. This is very well written and of course performed. Not sure why it got panned, but than again, so did certain Fleetwood Mac albums and no doubt many many others that the critics had no idea what they had at the time. Paul Simon is a gem. He is one of those people in a specific field that others just fundamentally understand is a GOAT. There is no feasible argument. Just shut up and listen.

What a sweet voice.

Very nice, non-hysterical album. Homogenic and heterogenic at the same time

This is in the category of really good album but not sure 1001 worthy. Thought the song writing was solid and musicality enjoyable. Just didn’t see it pushing the needle or being a particularly unique record in its genre.

Man, I just never get tired of Paul Simon's sound. His voice is just so pure and perfect, and this album was a lot of acoustic and melodic pieces, without too much dynamic range. I loved it, but it was a little long and I had trouble keeping all of my attention on it the whole way through. Four stars.

This will be my second Paul Simon album to review, after Graceland, which is one of my favorite albums of all time. At a quick glance, I don't think I'm familiar with any of these songs, but I'm excited listen to this. One thing I’ve learned about my musical tastes over the course of this project, is that I really enjoy certain people as songwriters, and Paul Simon is one of those people. I’ve had a love of Graceland for a long time, thanks to the original 1001 albums book, and I’ve listened to a couple of Paul Simon’s more recent albums as well. I thought this album was great, especially from a songwriting perspective. I loved the exploration of heart verses mind, and how that impacts our relationships and our views of the world around us. The two “Think Too Much” songs stood out to me as being the best songs on the album from a songwriting perspective, and the title track wasn’t that far behind. Musically, I could feel the rumblings of the sounds of Graceland, and I loved the use of the vibraphone and marimba, along with the synthesizers, Fender Rhodes, and Synclavier. I think Paul Simon does a great job at utilizing Caribbean and African influences in his music. For my money, the album was at its peak musically when the melody got carried away and experimental, like in "When Numbers Get Serious," or in "Cars Are Cars.” Paul Simon is excellent at layering sounds to create rich textures, and there was plenty of that to go around on this album. I really enjoyed listening to this album, and the only drawback in my opinion was that a few of the songs were a tad boring. Still, this album was fun to listen to, and the overall theme lent itself to some outstanding songwriting.

Always love me some Paul Simon.

Farts and Phones.

Simon somehow makes personally intimate and lofty sounds ebb and flow throughout.

Top Three Songs: 1) Train in the Distance 2) Rene and Georgette with Their Dog After the War 3) Think Too Much (b) Bottom Three Songs: 1) The Late Great Johnny Ace 2) Allergies 3) Think Too Much (a)

Never heard any of this. I liked it

Paul Simon does what he does best and brilliantly captures that into an ‘80s sound. This thing is Graceland without the African influences. Not quite as good as that follow-up, but it for sure pumps blood from the same heart.

Album 470 of 1001 Paul Simon - Hearts And Bones Rating : 3.75 / 5 This wasn't my favorite from Paul Simon but it started to grow on me by the time it was over. It made me think of a '70s Paul Simon looking to find his footing in the 80s, which he did a few years later with Graceland. Was familiar with 'The Late Great Johnny Ace' but I think the other tracks were new to me. This could possibly rate a bit higher for me after a few more listens.

3.5

I want to give it 4.5 stars - it has three of the best songs ever written - but the quality isn't consistent enough for 5 stars. It's still great, though.

Strong one two with Allergies and Hearts And Bones. Rene and Georgette is such a tender song and its followed by the absolute bullshit garbage song Cars Are Cars. The Late Great Johnny Ace is such a weird tune sonically.

Приятная музыка. Второй раз слушать я бы это не стал, но если будет играть на фоне, то вполне приемлемо.

Overall, really good Paul Simon album (have a copy of it on cd but must have been many years since the last time I listened to it). Not all the music / lyrics are equally strong, but several songs are 5* especially Think Too Much, obviously a blueprint to Iron & Wine.

Lovely sounding album. Surprised I didn't recognise any of the songs, but they were all pretty decent nevertheless.

Lovely bits of meloncoly woven together.

This is a solid folk album. I haven't listened to much Paul Simon outside of Simon & Garfunkel and "Graceland." However, I can say I'm a fan of this album, and I do want to listen to some of his other stuff to see how much more I like that isn't "Call Me Al" type stuff...

Loved it. Better than s& g

this one is pretty nice. generally soft rock this time. i wanna say there's a bit of a tribal, sometimes disco influence in a few of the tracks... it's a very quiet yet notable and animated album. obviously i prefer the more beat heavy songs when compared to the slowwww tracks.

01) Allergies - 8,0 02) Hearts and Bones - 8,5 03) When Numbers Get Serious - 7,5 04) Think Too Much (b) - 8,0 05) Song About the Moon - 7,5 06) Think Too Much (a) - 7,5 07) Train in the Distance - 8,0 08) Rene and Georgette Magritte with Their Dog after the War - 7,5 09) Cars Are Cars - 7,0 10) The Late Great Johnny Ace - 7,5 TOTAL: 7,70 (77/100) Current ranking: 92/192 First of all, a song about allergies... Who would have thought to sing about allergies. Best of all, the song is actually quite good. Then we have a song about numbers. Two times two is twenty-two, four times four is forty-four. Sounds legit to me. Then there's a song about the moon, a song about a train in the distance, and a song about cars, which are supposedly cars around the world. Let's not forget the late Johnny Ace, as well as Rene and Georgette Magritte with their dog. After the war. Maybe I'm thinking too much, but: a) I think the best song on the album is the title song Hearts and Bones. b) I think Graceland is a better album (23/192).

tough one for me. in danger of really enjoying a Paul Simon album

Hearing to this album for the first time, I'm realizing that I've slept on Paul Simon for years. I know he has the reputation of being the quintessential doctor's office waiting room artist, but for good reason, because this album is a masterclass of putting listeners at ease. Countless soft-rock gems on this album, including "Think Too Much", "Heart & Bones", "The Late Great Johnny Ace", and my favorite on the record "Train in the Distance". Also the wicked guitar solo on "Allergies" is nothing to sneeze at - pun very much intended. Paul Simon has made it into the rotation for those cozy days with this easy listening masterclass. 9/10

So, the "Simon and Garfunkel breakup album." I was worried when the album started -- afraid that this was going to be a massive sea of twee during "Allergies." But things rapidly improved from there. It's certainly easy to listen to -- and Simon's poetry is his usual blend of observational, horny, and dreamy. Goes down smooth. Unexpected bangers: Song About the Moon, Train in the Distance.

It's chill easy listening for a sleepy me at 8:00am in a hotel room. So it gets a solid passing grade from me!

2024-04-25...

nice, good mood, good songs. good friend

Hearts and Bones is the highlight of the album. Soft background music, folk style, and a nice, melancholic melody and rythm. Think too much (b) is also cool.

Enjoyed

I think of Paul Simon as embodying an unobtainable kind of cool while being completely uncool at the same time. A walking paradox. I grew up listening to Simon and Garfunkel, but I didn’t know this album at all. I enjoyed it as much as I enjoy anything PS puts his stamp on. A good listen!

Some dated production aside, this is excellent. 4.5

High 4

Absolut ok!

Paul Simon er frábær sögumaður. Það skín gegnum alla þessa plötu. Mjög gott stöff.

Enjoyable listen. Some of the songs were a bit goofy but there were some beautiful tracks as well. Paul Simon has a very smooth and soothing voice. I'll definitely explore more of his work.

Really good album with some great songs. They're not all equally great, unfortunately.

Classic. Excellent voice

After a rough start to the 80s, Paul Simon began to look back to the drawing board. Hearts and Bones was what came of it. While not exactly perfect, it does contain hints of what would happen a few years down the road for Paul musically. From what could have been (a Simon & Garfunkel reunion album) to what it eventually became, Hearts and Bones stands as one of the more intriguing, and little known, albums in Paul's discography and it is worthy of another consideration. Favorites: Hearts and Bones, When Numbers Get Serious, Think Too Much (b), Think Too Much (a), René and Georgette Magritte With Their Dog After the War, Cars Are Cars, The Late Great Johnny Ace.

Good but he has better. Some chill stuff that would be played in a dark smokey bar with wood paneling.

Really very good!