Graceland

This will be my second review of a Paul Simon solo album, and my third from my aunt's CD collection. Though admittedly, this one's a bit of a doozy, because the making of this record is marred with controversy. Graceland is the byproduct of Paul trying to reignite his career after his last album, Heart and Bones, failed to sell well, and his relationships with former music partner Art Garfunkel and ex-wife Carrie Fisher had deteriorated. He ended up taking a gig producing a record for an up-and-coming singer-songwriter who worked in house bands. This individual sent Simon a bootlegged tape of what she wanted the record to sound like, and the style they were going for was mbaqanga, a particular South African music from Johannesburg. Paul wanted to identify the artists on that tape, and then a record producer suggested he record an album of South African music. Thus, he went and did just that, despite the cultural boycott imposed on South Africa by the United Nations due to the apartheid going on at the time. Even with Paul trying to be as fair and compensatory to the artists he invited to record with him, it proved to be a tumultuous time to record there amidst the tense racial laws of the land. Nevertheless, the resulting record came out, and it's fine. This is a case where, for me, the story behind the album's creation was more profound than the album itself. That's not to say it's a bad listen, far from it. Paul was able to write a selection of jaunty tunes with various session musicians who contributed world musical elements. Whether it's the backing choir Ladysmith Black Mambazo on tracks like "The Boy in the Bubble" and "Diamonds in the Sole of Her Shoes", or the polyrhythmic percussion on "Crazy Love, Part II", or the contributions of full bands such as the Boyoyo Boys on "Gumboots", Rockin' Dopsie and the Twisters on "That Was Your Mother", and Los Lobos on "All Around the World or the Myth of Fingerprints", there's a large palette of sounds that coalesce into generally likeable music with very wide-eyed lyrical imagery. For sure, there are definite standout songs such as the title track about Paul's trip to Elvis Presley's estate after the dissolution of his marriage, "You Can Call Me Al" with its complex bass lines and rhythmic bounce paired with lyrics about a man's experience with a midlife crisis, and "Under African Skies" with its angelic vocal harmonies shared with Linda Ronstadt. But deep down, as much as Paul was trying to reinvigorate his career by embracing other cultural landscapes, there was an opportunity to push this genre-bending into more challenging territory. It's pleasing to have on in the background, but it doesn't go that extra step further. I still generally enjoyed Graceland for what it is, embracing African music from a Western perspective. It certainly became influential in that regard.

You Can Call Me Al is one of my favorite songs of all time. The rest of the album, though, is a little disappointing in comparison. The deluxe version has a demo of YCCMA, and the progression from demo to the album version illustrates in reverse my disappointment with the rest of the album. It's like they gave none of the other tracks the "pop single treatment".

Really like the African vibes, it’s super chill. Not very exciting but nice to listen to in the background

This is a great album

lekker vrolijk

This is actually really good and I dig the African musical influences in the album

Top, 4 stars

as cool as a Vampire Weekend prequel can be!

This was a fun album. I listened to it with Cathy An. It was fun how it included and adapted other cultural influences. We learned a lot by reading the Wikipedia about the album.

Akkordeonmusik

Diamonds on the soles of her shoes, you can call me al, great songs. I love the African beats in this album

tolles album mit gutem „sound“ - slap bass, gitarre, perkussion.

Classic. Still plays well.

Simon and Garfunkel Go to Africa

mr simon ily

Much better than I thought, thoroughly enjoyed

Paul Simon locked tf in

Ein toller Mix aus verschiedenen Stilen. Highlights "Graceland" und "You can call me Al". 4/5

Fun album, not the 1st time listening to Paul Simon but the 1st full playthrough of this album. 'Graceland' and 'Diamonds on the soles of her shoes' are my favourites

I really enjoyed this.

it’s crazy that I haven’t listed to this album in so long, but I remembered a lot of it. Dad had it and I remember him listening to it. It’s fun album. Every song just makes you feel happy in a different way.

fucking phenomenal

Un álbum pionero en adaptar la música africana a los gustos occidentales. En plena crisis de la mediana edad, Paul Simon se enamora de la música mbaqanga de Sudáfrica y crea un álbum muy pop que conecta las tradiciones musicales de ambos lugares. Aunque hoy en día no suene tan especial, supongo que en su época tuvo que ser un bombazo. Y musicalmente sigue siendo muy bonito de escuchar. Es un álbum que combina la felicidad y energía que transmite la mbaqanga con la elegancia pop-folk de Simon. Un álbum muy bueno que merece formar parte de esta lista tanto por su calidad como por su influencia y su contexto histórico.

Really enjoyed it, found myself bopping my head along to majority of songs, “You can call me Al” is a classic

Not a huge Simon fan, but this album is solid and an easy and fun listen.

I didn’t want to like this album. I don’t like folk, I don’t really like adult contemporary or whatever Paul Simon identifies/d as. But his exploration of various genres here is so genuine and authentic and well done, even someone not in love with the genre(s) itself can appreciate the craft.

Really good stuff.

I liked the song where he teamed up with Ladysmith Black Mambazo.

He has a great voice, the South African musicians sound great as well. The lyrics are solid and well done, Simon is a great storyteller. However, I don't really want an entire album that's just stories. It's too bright and sunny for me. It's a very pleasant album which is kinda why it rankles me a wee bit. It sounds too bright.

Can definitely tell Vampire Weekend got some influence from this album

Entertaining world-pop blend with a great showcase of African music. Does feel a little odd coming from Paul Simon, but a really solid listen with a ton of fun moments. Easy and laid back. Top tracks: Diamonds on the Soles of Her Shoes, You Can Call Me Al, Homeless

Incredible start that just fades a little toward the later songs

>The Beatles

Excellent. Loved the intense, driving beat on The Boy in the Bubble. Favourite tracks: The Boy in the Bubble, You Can Call Me Al & Diamonds on the Soles of Her Shoes. Definitely worth a relisten. 4/5

Not sure I'm qualified to speak on the appropriateness of a moderately wealthy American white guy "highlighting" the street music of apartheid era South Africa on his hugely popular record with his name at the top. For context, all music at this time that wasn't english speaking western music was called "World Music", so clearly there was some work to do there. A very listenable record on the whole. Upbeat, catchy Diamonds, Al, and Graceland are the big bops on this one

Really liked this one, I was unaware of all the controversy at the time it came out.......

Well isn't this just lovely? I feel like if golden-doodles had the ability to make music, this would be the kind of album they would make.

3.5 - Good

For some reason I don't like Paul Simon but I can't beat his catchy tunes.

Funkier bass lines than I expected

I think the first half of this album is pretty awesome but this unfortunately changes from Under African Skies onwards. These songs aren’t nearly as strong in my opinion, with That Was Your Mother being my least favourite. Still, there is nothing bad at all on here, so it’s a solid 4 stars. Favourite tracks: Graceland, Diamonds on the Soles of Her Shoes, You Can Call Me Al

Finally listened to this one in full, and yep it's very good. Diamonds on the Soles of her Shoes is particularly good.

Fun listen. There were some really cool harmonies and various different folk elements. I’d give it a 6-6.5/10

Dope

Paul Simon est célébré quand il fusionne la musique africaine à sa propre marque de folk, de rock, influencée par les sons du Sud américain. Le résultat est très agréable, mais on peut voir ces appropriations d'un œil critique.

So close to a 5 but some of the later songs like Under African Skies, Crazy Love Vol II, and the last track just don't do it for me. Practically everything else is a banger plain and simple. A strong 4.

Doesn't feel as developed as his later albums but still very beautiful. You can definitely tell it is from the 80s. Feels very Sting. Really in between a 3 and 4 (like 3.75).

fire

Enjoyable throughout with some classic songs

pretty good, would prob listen again

Жизнеутверждающий альбом. 6,5 из 10.

Much better than Coldplay

Graceland- classic timeless song. You can call me Al- also classic.

Swooping a 'Capella harmonies, cod highlife guitar, cajun sounds and 80s yacht rock with Simon's fragile, crystal clear vice rising to the top. It is cheesy, but everything was cheesy in 1986, and at least it was original (and yes, problematic). Back in ye olde days this was ubiquitous and would show up in everyone’s music collection as well as littering the bins of record fairs (and later charity shops) up and down the land. And - Seinfeld slap bass not withstanding - I can finally see why.

Interesting album. Very upbeat pop with a South African street music flavor.

Great continuation of Paul Simon's brilliance, he continues to know his way around a song and this album is special. Contains great hit singles like Graceland and You Can Call Me Al as well as interesting collaborations with various other musicians that all add to the album.

quality slightly dips near the end of the record for me, but this is so close to being 5 stars. a big whopping 4.5. 'I Know What I Know' one of the greatest songs of all time

Really enjoyed this. You can call me Al probably my least favourite on it. Will definitely listen again

Delightful

Tough call between a 4 and a 5 for me. A great album, probably Paul Simon’s best solo effort. One of the best songwriters ever and a really high degree of difficulty to merge African music with American folk and mostly pull it off. Graceland the song is an all timer. Ultimately, there are just too many only OK songs to get to a 5 for me.

4.5 I wouldn't classify myself as a Paul Simon fan but really liked this album, Great mix of folk stylings and World music. I thought the bass playing throughout the album was awesome, interesting lines and even better tones. This would probably be a 5-starer if I was more familiar with it. I will have to read more about the apartheid context when I have more time.

Fantastic! Not a real dud on the album and lots of great jams. Faves include: Graceland Homeless (lady smith black mambazo!!) You can call me Al (holey saxamoley!) Diamonds on the soles of her shoes Crazy love

Love it. Beats are great. Drums are great.

I like Paul Simon. It might be growing up seeing reruns of him on SNL or my dad playing some of the hits (not a huge Paul Simon fan, but he liked the hits like anyone). I can't really give this five stars, but I was not upset about having this on my list.

4.5 stars. Really good pop/rock record that has big hits as well as some world-influence variety. Simon's voice and style is very easy on the ears. "You Can Me Al" and the title track are standouts while "I Know What I Know" is annoying and the only major dud on the album.

Very unique album and sound the whole way through. Although I respect it more than enjoy it

very vibey 8/10- really enjoyed learning about the history behind the music

Beautiful, unique sound. Excellent songwriting, a worthy classic!

Story telling Vocal harmonies are interesting Rhythm is well thought out One banger One surprise

Lovely.

OVERALL: Very African influenced. I like the lyrics on most of the songs, and the backing vocals are always great, but it can get pretty boring. There are still interesting songs, though. Particularly Diamonds On The Soles Of Her Shoes, You Can Call me Al, and All Around The World or the Myth of Fingerprints, which are all incredible songs. Despite this, I feel like this is probably here because of influence, as it probably popularized African music and/or criticized apartheid while it was going on. Really good message, especially in the closing track. Pretty good percussion. Although it can be a little boring, it's a great album with a really good message. SONG AVG: 7.8/10 PERSONAL RATING: 7.75/10 The Boy In The Bubble: I don't really like the intro, and the instrumental is kinda weird, but I like this. Great lyrics, and the instrumental works very well with Simon's voice. Great commentary about apartheid (I think) and terrorism, very good overall. Also uses a fade out outro. Sonically, it isn't doing too much to impress me, but it still sounds pretty good. 9/10 Graceland: Pretty nice, I really like the bass. The instrumental is a bit repetitive, but it's still pretty good. The lyrics are fine, but I don't really understand what human trampoline is supposed to mean. I guess it's a bit boring, but that's pretty much it. 7.5/10 I Know What I Know: Kinda annoying, but I don't really mind. I like the story, but the weird noises in the instrumental kinda turn me off. It is pretty fun, though. 7.5/10 Gumboots: I'm not a big fan of the talking-singing, and I don't think it works very well with the instrumental. I do like the sax solo, but that's kinda it. The rest of the instrumental is kinda annoying and repetitive. 5/10 Diamonds On The Soles Of Her Shoes: Nice little intro. I really like the instrumental. Pretty nice story of a rich woman and a poor guy, although I feel like the lyrics end earlier than they should. I like the backing vocals. 9/10 You Can Call Me Al: As soon as I heard those synths, I instantly thought that this was going to be a side 2 kinda thing. Really nice instrumental, I have no complaints at all. Great backing vocals. I didn't really pay attention to the lyrics, but they seem fine. I guess Simon's vocals aren't the greatest here, but they aren't that bad. The only complaints I kinda have are that it's a little boring and the vocals at the very end aren't good in my opinion, but those are very minor issues. 9.5/10 Under African Skies: Pretty nice. It's pretty good overall, great concept and really good instrumental. I love the duet. I don't really have any complaints, but it doesn't really excel in anything other than the duet I guess. 8/10 Homeless: Very beautiful, unfortunately I can't understand most of the lyrics. It also doesn't have any instrumental. The vocals are very good though. I don't really like what they say after "somebody say", it's kinda annoying and it sounds like someone gasping for air. It also feels like it goes on for way too long. 5.75/10 Crazy Love, Vol. II: Pretty good I guess. Nice instrumental. I guess it's kinda boring. Pretty nice message and vocals. 8/10 That Was Your Mother: This does not sound like it should be on here, such a change in style. I think I like it? I don't really like the intro, and the drums can be kinda weird, but it sounds fine. Pretty nice jam, but the lyrics are kinda mid. Pretty fun I guess. 7/10 All Around The World or the Myth of Fingerprints: That's a pretty long title, I feel like The Myth Of Fingerprints is a better title than All Around The World. Great closing track, great message. Basically, everyone is the same and nobody is more special than another. Really good closing track. Oh yeah, the song is pretty good. The instrumental combines all of the styles on the album, and the vocals are pretty standard with the rest of it. Pretty nice. 9.57/10

Belle découverte, je ne connaissait le duo mais pas l'artiste seul.

Volgens mij de zesde keer dat ik Paul tegenkom en alle voorgaande albums scoorden een 1 of een 2. Ik ben geen fan van suffe Paul, dat is duidelijk. En ik erger me ook wel aan het veel te vaak opnemen van dezelfde artiest. Maar toch word ik deze keer wel verrast. Gek misschien, want ik kende ook wel weer verschillende nummers. Maar toch was dit blijkbaar verdwenen uit mijn beeld van saaie Paul. De zang zelf verveelt mij deze keer niet zo. Het is ook niet zo, dat ik erg onder de indruk raak van de zang. Maar mij niet ergeren is al heel wat bij Paul. Muzikaal hoor ik voor het eerst echt iets interessants. Dat zal wel vanuit de samenwerkingen komen. Het is vooral opvallend dat de meer Afrikaanse klanken prima samengaan met Paul. Al zit er af en toe een misser tussen. De Lion-King-klanken zijn mij toch wat te overdreven. Al met al kom ik op 3,5 ster.

Dit is weer een van die iconische albums en daar word ik dan op zich wel weer blij van. Ook omdat er veel herkenning in zit, met het fijne Graceland en de iconische bassolo van You can call me Al. Ik begrijp alleen die fascinatie met Afrika niet zo. Tuurlijk, iedereen mag zijn eigen fascinatie voor een land hebben, sommigen hebben dat met Japan of Italie, in de 80s was apartheid natuurlijk wel een dingetje waar de goegemeente zich druk over maakte. Het is geinig om die Afrikaanse invloeden op een mainstream westers album te horen, dat geeft een album absoluut een fris en nieuw geluid. Ik vind het niet altijd geslaagd, zoals Homeless, maar als het gedoseerd wordt toegevoegd, in de ritmesecties of de gitaargeluidjes, dan is het zeker wel interessant. Het album is ook mede door die fusion iconisch geworden vermoed ik, anders was het misschien wel het zoveelste Paul Simonesque album geworden. Het uiteindelijke luisterplezier zorgt ervoor dat ik het tussen een 3 en een 4 zou waarderen. Ik ken graag bonuspunten toe aan de iconische bassolo en daarmee rond ik het af naar een 4.

The "Diamonds" into "Call Me Al" combo needs to be nerfed, it's way too overpowered. Rest of the album has no such cause for alarm.

I like the music in this one and the collaboration was really interesting and unique

I really love the instrumentation on this album, particularly the eclectic little hits and an accordion player who WILL. NOT. QUIT. Simon sounds amazing, but I did find my attention drifting from the vocals often.

Classic!

4/5. I think this album is definitely culturally significant. Simon wanted to use South African music in his album and provided malicious incompetence in why he couldn't wait. He was offered the reason why he couldn't do it according to the African National Congress, he ignored it, and then wondered why they were mad at him. He made up his own reasoning why it was a good idea, without knowledge of the apartheid, and then later said "well actually what I did was good." I'm sure the musicians on the album enjoyed the experience and royalties but at the expense of the rest of the country. Now did he end up ruining everything down there? Obviously not, but it made the fight that much more difficult. And now, the music. This is a classic in its innovativeness and songwriting. It introduces South African music to a wider audience, providing more South African artists to gain mainstream and for other artists in America and elsewhere to use and implement this style of music. The songs are all well written and even the inclusion of an a cappella song offers a fun listening experience. Taking these songs out of context and placing them through normal Simon albums, they would still be mostly popular. The base is still there and the songs are carried mostly by his vocals and choices of classic instruments he normally uses. They are only amplified here, making them stand out more. I don't think it's a perfect album and loses it's steam in the latter half but it is still an important listen. It's important to remember that art can exist on its own while still being relevant to its surroundings context. You can enjoy an album but to deny, or worse, reject, reality and the cultural implications this album stirred, is to offer a chance to repeat history at some other time and/or place. Everything is more than one thing and for those reviews on either side of the fence, to view things in black and white can cause more harm than good. Simon can be ignorant in his hubris to create his album while still benefitting African music in the long run by providing a larger audience. Just because that was the outcome, does not mean it did not cause harm in doing so. Retrospect is 20/20 and each art piece battles with the perspective of Time. Best Song: You Can Call Me Al, Diamonds On The Soles Of Her Shoes, The Boy In The Bubble

3.5 possibly?

Never really had a sit to listen to Paul Simon. I like it. At first thought, way more accordion than I expected. The fretless bass is an acquired taste, but makes the whole sound of this record alongside the chorusy lead guitar riffs ala The Smiths. Somehow this record kinda hits like a hip hop record in the way that the different layers come together and Paul kinda singy-talks over everything. This is another one of those records where I can pinpoint its influence all over modern music. Very cool.

Well call me Al that was a good album start to finish.

strong start... great first 4 songs good singles Homeless kinda weird that was your mother is a groove Just finished, feeling a solid 4/5 Would rate 80/100

Great album, creative and very worldly sounding.

Yea man Paul Simon the GOAT good shout from whoever sent him to Africa

A later career masterpiece

A great controversy.

I was skeptical of more Paul Simon, but this album is a lot of fun and the broad influences are unique and interesting.

frekar flott plata. ekki viss um að ég hlusti á það aftur. afrísku áhrifin.

The first time I ever listened to this record was also the first time I was ever stoned, so I have a lot of strong associations with it. At the time as a teenager I had a know idea about the background and circumstances around it. I still think it's a great album and it hits in the right ways, but problematic for sure.

A classic for a reason

One of those albums that is always in the top of these lists. I would say 2/3 of it I think is really good. A third are just fine. The recording of it is done exceptionally well and is worth a listen on your best equipment. The song Homeless always catches me but surprise at how good it sounds.

# 430 - 06/03/2025 - Great album, I like this. Graceland is the best song here. I love the African influences in the music. Top 50 of the Rolling Stone 500 Greatest Albums and 1987 Grammy Album of the year!

What a great album! I've heard at least 3 of these songs a lot. Cecelia, She's Got Diamonds on the Soles of her Shoes, and You Can Call me Al. These songs are really fun and refreshing. I added a few to one of my main playlists

It’s good. Paul’s great.

It really was a huge release when it came out, and it reinvigorated Paul Simon's career. In general, I think it holds up. At the time, CDs were pretty new, so it was used quite a lot to demonstrate audio systems. It is recorded well. Ladysmith Black Mambazo sounded so good on those rack systems, especially "Homeless".

нормалек, раньше такого не знал.

Pretty enjoyable listen. Was more familiar with his stuff with Art Garfunkel (which I still think I prefer) but glad to have this in the rotation.

Lots of songs I knew, didn't know the context of the album. 7/10

High 4 Side A is a lot of fun track Side B is a bit too "lionn king" other than "you can call me al". A fun alvum with a lot to like

just a little guy having fun with it. An absolute joy

I believe this is the best solo album made after 1970 by any 60s icon named Paul. When it came out, my girlfriend’s dad played the cassette on repeat on a long road trip we took together. The songs are well written and interesting, and also safe for the whole family.

Absolutely stellar. Paul Simon take one idea and just runs with it. The incorporation of South African music in his Contemporary Folk songs is seamless. It spotlit this little-known (to Western audiences) music genre without it ever sounding like a pastiche or letting it overwhelm the songwriting. Peter Gabriel also did something similiar a few years earlier with his fourth self-titled album, but here Simon makes it a lot more appealing to a general audience. And no, I don't care about "cultural appropriation", nor do I think it is a valid concept. Key tracks: The Boy in the Bubble Graceland I Know What I Know Diamonds on the Sole of Her Shoes You Can Call Me Al Homeless

Evidence of an amazing solo career

Call-out for my hometown of Lafayette in the title track

First of all, I simply like the sound of this album. Simon had done the album's initial recordings in South Africa (during the height of apartheid, mind you) and thus you hear the likes of South African vocal groups such as Ladysmith Black Mambazo and the Boyoyo Boys across a few tracks, as well as plethora of other native South African musicians contributing their works. They all come together to create great, memorable melodies and uplifting messages that would eventually land this album various Grammy awards. Makes for great road trip music too. Best tracks: Graceland, Diamonds on the Soles of Her Shoes, You Can Call Me Al, Homeless

I feel like I'm on an early morning road trip with my hair in the wind

3.5

Sehr entspannte Lieder für gute Laune, vor allem Gumboots und das letzte Lied des Albums haben mir gefallen

afrikka ethnic on slight cheating...

Cultural appropriation ... before the term was mainstream. Boomers love this album.

So cozy and comfortable to listen to. It felt like a good day on a holyday. I'm gonna give it 4 stars.

Melhor música: I know what i know início em grande! bluesy mas ao mm tempo faz quase lembrar funana(a concertina ou synth ou o que seja) cordofones bue fixes nao adoro a voz (nao tem nada de diferente é so o paul simon - canta bem mas não gosto q parece quase q tem reverb naturalmente)

It's always nice to hear artistas getting inspiration from other cultures. I like the mix with western and africano folk music. It sounds like this was done with respect and admiration. I don't think it's cultural appropiation.

Not his best. But some gems here.

Another album I enjoyed more than I expected. I always thought Simon's songs were a bit dull, but there are some incredibly evocative lyrics, lovely melodies, and a great range of sounds and textures. Call me Al and Diamonds are perhaps the obvious singles, but I found something to like in every song. Didn't quite reach the level of a 5, because I do find him a little repetitive after a while. Also surprised that such an 'african' album would have so many references to places in the US!

82/100. Graceland by Paul Simon is a great singer-songwriter record that stands out due to its unique influences. Drawing heavily from his trip to South Africa, the album blends folk and rock with vibrant African rhythms and instrumentation, giving it a distinct and refreshing sound. Simon’s songwriting is as strong as ever, and the fusion of styles makes this album feel both adventurous and deeply personal.

i love this album. it has such strong songs, and it’s such a good first half. the last part gets a little like yeah we get it. but i love it!

I can call this album great, fun, and important due to it's cross cultural significance ... and you can call me Al!

So fun, lots of international sounds and flair.

This is such a weird time capsule from the 80s. My dad had this tape. I remember listening to this riding around in his Chevy work van when I was 8-10 years old. I can't not love this even though, if I'd never heard it before, I'd probably give it a shit review.

Admittedly pretty iconic.

A classic

I knew some of these already. I enjoyed the album, although I found it quite mellow at times and wished it would get more lively! You can call me Al is still my favourite from here. 4

4 - I was a bit disappointed. I felt it didnt really know how to start and stumbled a bit. Then once the bangers came it was good old paul simon.

Nice to listen to. Can't say I was paying too much attention though. Lovely.

Sick

Thoroughly enjoyed the African influence, the story telling, and the big hitters like Diamond's On the Soles of Her Shoes and You Can Call Me Al. Concise and tight album, would listen again

Great album. 4.3/5

James Taylor yesterday and Paul Simon today. It's 70's singer-songwriter week but I can't decide if that's a good thing or a bad thing. We know Jim Croce won't be on any lists any time soon. Personally, I would put at the very least You Don't Mess Around with Jim in the book but it was not my decision. In my opinion, Croce is superior to both James Taylor and Paul Simon. Paul Simon tickles the fancy of music critics because he incorporates African sounds into his music and that makes them feel like the music Simon writes is more important and open-minded. "Look at all the African artists Simon is bringing to the forefront!" Unfortunately, your average music listener could not tell you which African artists are featured on Graceland but they do know Chevy Chase was in the music video for You Can Call Me Al. Enough about my slight distaste for Paul Simon being the musical version of white guilt that only serves to inhabit and profit from those he is "helping," rather than highlighting their talent. I would think this is Paul Simon's best album and I say that having only listened to his debut album. I know he has another album in this book (which is insanity), so perhaps I'll change my mine once I hear that one. I think this album deserves a place in the book, despite my feelings about all of the other things around it outside of the music. There is not a bad song on here, though You Can Call Me Al feels like a pop song written to sell records. Of course, Paul Simon would never do that. Would I listen to this album again? I very well may, because it's a good album and if I am listening to Paul Simon then it contains much of his less haughty and annoying song writing.

Amo a Paul, este disco es súper verano

Chill album. Easy to listen to. Classic 80s vibes

Slapped

Man Ive always loved “You Can Call Me Al” so much. Maybe too much. Perhaps it’s because it kept playing in an ad for a while last July, perhaps I’m just chronically white. But that song is just a super ear worm and is complete fun. I wasn’t aware that most all of this albums would be just as fun. It seriously impresses me that Paul Simon was in the midst of a failing marriage, lost partnership with Art, and off the heels of a solo album that apparently flopped. I’d love to be 40 and find this much fun and inspiration from the world in the midst of such personal turmoil. I think he does the South African sound well and weaves in its native collaborators really nicely. The title track is such a good rambling road trip song with a memorable set of chords under its pre-chorus. I was a little unsure about how this album would score for me as a whole, or if it would take a thematic turn, but when the first minute or so of “Diamonds On The Soles Of Her Shoes” finished up, I was just smiling ear to ear. How incredibly fun. I shouldn’t be shocked, but this little hymn was just gliding around in my head for hours after. At this point, I knew that the vibrancy and easy fun of this record was here to stay. I love art thats this kind to the senses, it’s like a little musical vacation. Paul Simon was in his bag for this one

My mum would play this a lot on car journeys so it is ingrained in my brain. Is Paul Simon a bit of a twat? Probably! Is this bordering on cultural appropriation? Quite likely, but it’s catchy and introduced some African artists to the wider world

Wonderful

4/5 Paul gives us some great songs here, full of life and character. Diamonds on the Soles of Her Shoes stands out with an amazing, groovy instrumental, fantastic vocals, and pointed lyricism, but the whole album is cohesive and easy on the ears. The Boy In the Bubble 3.5/5 Graceland 4/5 I Know What I Know 4.5/5 Gumboots 4/5 Diamonds on the Soles of Her Shoes 5/5 (FAV) You Can Call Me Al 4.5/5 Under African Skies 3.5/5 Homeless 4/5 Crazy Love, Vol.II 3.5/5 That Was Your Mother 2.5/5 (LEAST FAV) All Around the World or the Myth of Fingerprints 5/5

Good album. Favourite songs: The boy in the bubble, Graceland, Gumboots, Crazy love, vol.II 4 stars

Found out Paul Simon is 5'2, absolutely clearing the short king threshold. Bet you all feel bad for rating it so low now don't ya?

Lekker album. Twee echte bangers en de rest is ook gewoon solid

Fun folk pop with a lot of accordion. Favorites: you can call me Al, diamonds on the soles of her shoes, under African skies, all around the world.

Ja, ganz okay. Gerade so 4 Sterne.

++: The Boy in the Bubble, Graceland, I Know What I Know, Diamonds on the Soles of Her Shoes, Homeless, That Was Your Mother +: Gumboots, You Can Call Me Al, Under African Skies, Crazy Love, Vol.II, All Around the World or the Myth of Fingerprints 8,5/10

I believe this is the best solo album made after 1970 by any 60s icon named Paul. When it came out, my girlfriend’s dad played the cassette on repeat on a long road trip we took together. The songs are well written and interesting, and also safe for the whole family.

Banger 4/5

I liked the beats and riffs very catchy. But does suffer from the poetry rambling.im finding that context matters so much in an album. Knowing the history of this albums creation def makes it better

4.5

Maybe it's because of my familiarity with the album from my later youth. Although this mix of African music, world music and pop usually gets on my nerves, I quite enjoyed listening to the album. Even if I won't listen to it that often, it has brought me closer to African rhythms. 4/5

High quality listen. 3.5

An uplifting, groovy record and a fascinating experiment. A breath of fresh air in Simon's musical catalogue.

I own thos album. Its pretty great.

The Good: An album by Elvis! The Bad: Wait… it’s not by Elvis… The Ugly: Then why call it Graceland? Ahhhh, the comments I am reading about cultural appropriation… People should get a fucking life and appreciating all that has been “stolen” over the ages to get us where we are today. When this album came out you had the musical community trying to help out others; Feed The World, I Won’t Play Sun City et al Artist were voicing opinions and trying to create awareness. Little Paul was in a creative rut, heard something that inspired him to create new music, and boy what a record did he make. Would the record not have been conceived without him hearing mbaqanga? Maybe. Does it matter? No. I doubt that the South African artist he took on tour with him worried about global attention to their art, and more importantly, to their plight for freedom. Going to dish out 4*

Pretty good, lots of different musical styles incorporated. Some of it works really well, some of it...is a bit over the top. The musicianship is top-notch, especially the bass work which is phenomenal. Overall a quite interesting listen.

8/10. Some of this feels like slumming it, and Simon’s weird apartheid-evasiveness diminishes some of the staying power of this otherwise-very good record.

Immeasurably influential

Wow, this was not the vide I was expecting when I saw Paul Simon. I did really enjoy the different feel and the african styles. Some songs weren't my favorite (Crazy Love springs to mind), but for the most part very enjoyable.

Absolute fire

Very popular album when it was released. I enjoyed it.

I'm glad I revisited this album.. Though I've always rated it as a four, I think this list ends I really got into the textures of the albums. Still not quite the all out fiver of it's reputation for me but getting closer (9.5)

My favourite Paul Simon album. I really like the African influences on here. 4.5 stars

Lots of great songs here including "The Boy in the Bubble", "I Know What I Know", and "Diamonds on the Soles of Her Shoes". I do think it loses a little steam near the end which keeps it from a 5, but it's still a great listen. 4.5 stars.

Generally very good. A rich, buzzing tapestry of South African folk, freewheeling Paul Simon wisp and the pharpiest 80s bass. Boy In The Bubble, Graceland and You Can Call Me Al the main highlights and true songs of miracle and wonder.

Molto bello pure lui.

Really good, every song was at least good, most were class plus it had ladysmith black mamboza

Is it 4-stars because it’s a banger or because all the other albums recently have been mid? I’ll never know.

Sure, I get it. Super clean production and mixing. I can go one way or the other with Paul Simon, really cool album.

oooooh i'm going to graceland.

I was waiting for this to appear on this list at some point! A classic, feel good album. I’m sure there’s probably some important message in amongst this that’s historically important or something like that. But I just think it’s fun to listen to, musically.

4 - love Paul Simon

4/5

Overall: 8/10 For some reason I never had much interest in Paul Simon. I've always liked You Can Call Me Al, especially with it's Chevy Chase starting music video, but none of his other songs got any attention from me. Now that I've listened to a full album, I'm a bit more intrigued! I love the use of world music (exclusively Africa?) and Paul has a pretty good voice. It at least made me interested in hearing more! I also have to point out the incredible bass playing of Bakithi Kumalo, easily my favourite part of the whole album. Fav Song: You Can Call Me Al Least Fav Song: Homeless

Paul Simon is one of the great singer/songwriters. Combining his folk background with the African backing leads to this glorious masterpiece. Is it tricky politically - yes. Is it cultural appropriation? I'm not so sure, it's more of a beautiful fusion. "You Can Call Me Al" is played to death but there aren't many more beautiful openings than : "the Mississippi Delta was shining like a national guitar"

More electric guitars, Call me Al, listen to rhythm of the saints

Fantastic record! Have to admit I never listened it in its entirety (just song by song) but I'm glad I did. Cool album!

Good vibes, would listen to again.

First time with this Paul Simon album. ‘Call me Al’ is probably his biggest song and I’m sure I’ve heard a couple of the other tracks as well. This probably deserves 5 stars from me but there’s something about Simon that rubs me wrong.. great voice, great songwriting.

🎺🎺🎺

Graceland rules.

This one surprised me, I didn’t think I would like it but I actually enjoyed it.

It’s sweet, a nice listen

Culturally important and very good? Yes. Utterly transcendent? Nah. But still incredibly solid. Unexpected bangers: I Know what I Know, Under African Skies, That Was Your Mother.

Just a very good album, with a nice mixture of vibes and styles

good vibes on this one

Pre-listening thoughts: so I’ve heard a few songs from this album before and from what I heard I think I’ll enjoy it but we shall see Post/during listening thoughts: Paul Simon just like rambles lol. Love this a lot but the way the rhythm of the lyrics is just a suggestion cracks me up a little. So I did some further digging into the background of this album and it’s got quite the story attached to it. Simon being accused of stealing from African artists, being accused of breaking the cultural boycott of South Africa during Apartheid, and being accused of cultural appropriation. Whew! I love the music on this record but to credit Paul Simon for being the genius behind it feels wrong, whether he stole directly from the artists in the studio or not. African music is the genius behind this, and if the rumors are true, the specific bands he collaborated with deserve a lot more credit than what they get today. This album definitely has some genius though. It’s lively and folky and rhythmic in very fun ways. A unique record. 7.5/10 DID I NEED TO HEAR THIS BEFORE I DIE: I would say yes? The context alone is worth knowing about I think Fav tracks: The Boy in the Bubble, Gumboots, Diamonds on the Soles of Her Shoes, You Can Call Me Al, All Around the World Least fav tracks: That Was Your Mother

een classic, veel nummers herkend waarvan ik niet wist dat ze op dit album stonden. Maar niet een genre die ik snel zelf op zou zetten, daarom toch 4 sterren

Classic. I’m glad it holds up. Chevy Chase is the worst, though.

8/10. There are various interesting styles in this album. It's a fun listen!!! :)

Just two days ago I got Paul Simon's self titled solo album. Graceland is more adventurous, and there are more worldbeat influences, especially African music. The songwriting is excellent and it is very good album production wise as well. It sounds a tad too 80s for my taste but nevertheless it was very enjoyable.

great and varied album with some standout, memorable tracks. Folk rock with african influences? resulted in an interesting and fun listen.

It’s a solid 4 from me.

I really like this music! Probably one of my favs, but I think it's cus of the style.

4/5

Great album!

4.25

could be epic poem

Wonderful composition of world music with Paul Simon's gentle voice.

Very good album to listen to. 4/5

solid 4.

A classic

Singer/songwriter pop with a twist

Sehr entspannte Lieder für gute Laune, vor allem Gumboots und das letzte Lied des Albums haben mir gefallen

Another "white man discovers Africa" album from the 80s, haha. Really good though

Alors là, on tombe sur un os, un putain d'os de mammouth. Quand le grand livre des "1001 Albums" me balance Paul Simon "Graceland", j'ai failli m'étouffer avec mon café noir. Paul Simon, pour le mec de 16 ans que j'étais en 1986, c'était le son des parents. Le genre de disque qui passe le dimanche après-midi pendant que ton père tond la pelouse et que ta mère prépare un rôti. Le summum de l'ennui poli, l'antithèse absolue de The Cure et de leur "Pornography" qui tournait en boucle dans ma chambre d'ado mal peignée. C'était la musique que les yuppies triomphants des années Mitterrand écoutaient dans leur R5 Turbo en allant à leur cours de squash. Une musique proprette, intelligente, vaguement exotique pour se donner bonne conscience. Bref, tout ce que je pouvais dégueuler à l'époque. Une gentille pop mâtinée de "World Music", ce concept marketing fumeux inventé par des Occidentaux en mal d'authenticité pour vendre des disques à d'autres Occidentaux en mal d'authenticité. J'avais rangé ça dans la case : sympathique, mais totalement inoffensif. Et puis, il y avait l'autre casserole, la grosse, la rouillée, celle qui fait un bruit de tous les diables : l'Apartheid. En 1986, l'Afrique du Sud était au ban des nations. Un boycott culturel international était en place, et qu'est-ce qu'il fait, notre petit Paul ? Il prend son baluchon et va enregistrer à Johannesburg avec des musiciens locaux. Tollé général, on a crié au scandale, à l'opportunisme, au pillage culturel. Simon, le petit malin, qui brise le boycott pour se refaire une santé commerciale sur le dos de musiciens noirs opprimés. La polémique a été aussi énorme que le succès du disque. Alors, presque quarante ans plus tard, il a fallu que je me replonge dedans. Sans a priori, ou du moins en essayant de les laisser au vestiaire. J'ai posé le vinyle sur la platine, le coeur un peu lourd, m'attendant à une purge polie, à un pensum de bonne conscience musicale. Et là... la claque. Merde. Il faut être honnête, ce disque est une putain de merveille. Dès les premières secondes de "The Boy in the Bubble", on est happé. Pas par Paul Simon, non. On est happé par cette section rythmique incroyable, par cette basse fretless sautillante et joyeuse de Bakithi Kumalo qui danse comme un diable, par la guitare de Ray Phiri qui tricote des mélodies lumineuses. C'est un son que l'Occident n'avait jamais vraiment entendu comme ça. C'est frais, c'est vivant, c'est une explosion de couleurs dans le paysage musical souvent synthétique et glacial des années 80. Le génie de Simon, et c'est là qu'il faut ravaler son cynisme de vieux punk, ça n'a pas été de composer cette musique. Non, sa genialité a été de la laisser exister car il a eu l'intelligence suprême de ne pas essayer de la formater, de la noyer sous des arrangements de producteur américain bedonnant. Il a posé sa voix, ses textes de songwriter new-yorkais un peu intello et névrosé, sur un tapis volant musical qui était déjà là, vibrant de sa propre vie. C'est une conversation, pas une OPA hostile. Et quelle conversation ! Le contraste entre la mélancolie douce-amère des textes de Simon et l'exubérance quasi-constante de la musique est ce qui fait toute la force de "Graceland". Prenez "Diamonds on the Soles of Her Shoes", avec la majesté des choeurs de Ladysmith Black Mambazo. C'est d'une beauté à chialer. Et puis bien sûr, il y a le tube interplanétaire, celui qui a fait danser la Terre entière : "You Can Call Me Al". Impossible de résister à ce riff de synthé et à ce solo de basse. Même le métalleux le plus endurci se surprend à taper du pied. C'est un fait scientifique. L'album n'est pas qu'un simple aller-retour en Afrique du Sud, c'est un véritable road-trip musical. On y croise les Texans de Los Lobos sur "All Around the World or the Myth of Fingerprints" et les légendes du zydeco de Louisiane comme Rockin' Dopsie Jr. sur "That Was Your Mother". C'est un disque qui respire l'Amérique dans sa diversité, tout en étant profondément imprégné par l'Afrique. Alors, on en pense quoi, de ce disque maudit et adulé ? Est-ce que le Paul Simon de 1986 était un salaud d'opportuniste ? Peut-être un peu. Est-ce qu'il a brisé un boycott qui avait son importance ? Oui, c'est un fait. Mais il a aussi offert une vitrine mondiale à des musiciens exceptionnels qui, sans lui, seraient peut-être restés dans l'ombre. Il a fait plus pour la connaissance de la musique sud-africaine que n'importe quel concert caritatif de l'époque. C'est toute l'ambiguïté du personnage et de l'oeuvre. Aujourd'hui, en réécoutant Graceland, je dois bien l'admettre : mon moi de 16 ans était un petit con snobinard. Ce disque est un chef-d'oeuvre de production, un miracle d'équilibre entre des cultures, un concentré de joie de vivre et de mélodies imparables. C'est un disque qui donne le sourire, qui donne envie de bouger, qui réchauffe le coeur. Est-ce que ça en fait un de mes albums de chevet ? Non. Il reste pour moi un objet un peu à part, un album "soleil" dans une discographie majoritairement "nuageuse". Il ne détrônera jamais Joy Division ou Nick Cave dans mon coeur. Il y a un côté un peu trop "propre", un peu trop lisse, qui m'empêche de l'aimer totalement, sans réserve. C'est un compagnon de voyage exceptionnel, mais pas le confident des nuits blanches. Mais bordel, quel voyage ! C'est un excellent album de World Music, un excellent album tout simplement. Un classique qui a mérité sa place dans le grand livre, n'en déplaise au pisse-froid que j'étais. Verdict : Une bouffée d'air frais qui a balayé les certitudes et les préjugés, une leçon d'ouverture musicale, même si elle est née dans la controverse. L'album parfait pour réaliser qu'on a parfois été un con fini, et que c'est pas si grave de changer d'avis. Un solide 4/5, parce que la perfection n'est pas de ce monde, et surtout pas du mien.

A delight.

Favorite Track: You Can Call Me Al

African and western instruments combine wonderfully. Every contribution is perfect. I love the bass lines. Every track is different and danceable, singable and just fantastic. Every time I listen, I hear even more wonderful musicianship.

4.5

the album started REALLY good and i really should have listened to it earlier but the last couple songs really dampened the whole thing. would have been way better without all the features but i think his voice and the top 75% of the album are good enough to keep it at a low 4 stars

This is a very different album. I love some of the songs and Paul's use of back up singers/music is brilliant on this album. A fun listen!

Find blend av musikkstiler. Meget bra. 4/5

I really like his voice! That’s it.

Volvemos

One of those albums you listen to and wonder why you don't listen to it more often. During gumboots I was thinking: wow he really nailed the African feel for this song not realizing it's played by an actual African band

I love the happiness of the music that Paul Simon has always produced. Graceland is no different in that regard. It puts me in a good mood despite what the day is throwing my direction.

This is an amazing album. The African influences are weaved in so seamlessly that they align with the songwriting without seeming contrived. Beautiful music, production, everything. Catchy and dancey too. At its best, pop genius. The songs are less interesting from track #7 onwards, although 7 itself is beautiful - just not my thing. "That was Your Mother", for example, is forgettable... although I guess the speeding up tempo through the song is the attraction. If you don't really go for that worldy feel, it won't be your cuppa. It is a gentle album, no biting teeth here. I do find myself wondering how influenced Sting was by this in his post-Police output. Really good album.

Great world music vibe. Couldn’t avoid the hits during high school.

Great stuff

Overplayed cultural appropriation much? Sill, it fucking rules. Damn.

I got another Paul Simon album about 2 weeks ago and I really loved the sound, the vibe, his voice is great, but I didn’t personally like most songs. I was glad to get him again and my eyes have been opened here, this album is great. The first 6 songs are just great & hoping for more of him down the line.

I liked Chevy Chase in the music video

I love Graceland. It's not a perfect album, despite my vanilla preferences, but I love this.

This is great. A couple of weaker spots though bring it down. And as for American cries of cultural appropriation, if it’s good enough for Ladysmith Black Mambazo, then it’s good enough for the rest of us

J'ai vraiment préféré cet album à l'autre de Simon que j'ai eu plus tôt. Beaucoup plus varié, très original. L'incorporation de musique africaine est spéciale, bien faite, mais je comprends les critiques d'appropriation culturelle car ça se démarque bizarrement. Un bon score pour l'effort et le risque. 7.5/10

This is the third solo album by Paul Simon that I have received on this list. Again, I prefer his music with S&G more than the solo stuff. This album is upbeat with a happy vibe, and fun to listen to. It is probably my favorite of his. Reading some of the comments left by others (which I do for every album) I see many comments attacking Simon's character for what they call "cultural appropriation". This is funny to me since cultural appropriation is a way to introduce the world to other cultures as long as it is done without taking advantage of the culture which the music is borrowed from. Apartheid is the act of keeping cultures separated so that one may have mastery of the other. If we truly want unity why not blend all cultures and remember the histories of the cultures where music came from? Most of my favorite music has been derived from southern delta blues and it has had a profound effect on the development of rock and roll and pop music. If white artists had not taken these influences where would we be now? I for one enjoyed listening to the African musicians on the album and I am glad that their contributions were recorded. If they were not, then many people would miss out on what they have to offer. As long as they were treated fairly and compensated accordingly, then I think we all win. Is Paul Simon a good person? I don't know him or what he has done one way or another. I don't judge the music based on the artist's character. If I did, many on this list would be graded poorly.

You know, this kind of works. Call Me Al was definitely what marketed this album but the rest was beautifully crafted and should be listened to carefully.

Great album, has some classics on it. I hadn't heard the cultural appropriation complaints until reading the reviews section, so I guess I'll investigate those a bit more.

Every generation sends a hero up the pop charts

Не знаю что за земля благодати, похоже на елден ринг. Но на старте! На старте дуда и гармонь. Это мы слышим нечасто, это мы уважаем Слушайте, а кайфы. Очень разнообразные мелодии, не успеваешь заскучать, добрый голос мужика рассказывает жизненные микростори, приятненько.

I am fortunate enough to have been raised by a dad with excellent taste in music, who introduced me to many fantastic albums on long car rides when I was a kid. Graceland is one of those albums, and although this is my first time listening to it start-to-finish in at least a decade (maybe even two!), it makes up for the quantity of listens with its quality of music.

I like the piece you can call me AI

Never heard of him and no idea what to expect. Rock folk and pop sounds enjoyable, unless it's too basic. I don't have high expectations for this one, though I love that it's an artist I haven't heard before, so I hope I found my new favourite artist. Lot's of features which is unexpected from a rock fella. First song, I like the instrumental fusion already. His voice is nice, literally folly. Songs are decently listened, so they must be suitable for almost every person. I don't like that that instrument is only making one type of sound, but lyrically it's fun. Ooh the break was short but necessary. Feels like he's talking and makes me want to learn the lyrics. God he actually worked with Art Garfunkel and I don't know much of him, but this album will be even better I think. Second song, sonically it's good, really good, long intro which is quite necessary here tbh. The chorus has such a good lyrical delivery. He doesn't have vocals, not a bad thing, just what I think. That clapping (not hands) sound is addicting. Chorus is still the best part in the song. Outro is also long, not needed tho. It's not rare, but I'm still amazed when permanent wave songs sound this good. Third song, first song featuring others. It's energetic kinda. Oh the background vocals are the features, love that touch. It's such a weird song tbh, those sounds make it as funky as scary. He has a lot of dialogues here. General's OO OO OO-s are the best part in the song, because it's in sync with the beat. 4th song, Paul invited African artists mostly here I suppose, gotta appreciate that, just read and some people take that negatively, weiiird. Anyway this song didn't really stand out to me, it's too short and it didn't let me get to know it, and sonically it wasn't as interesting. 5th song, no way I already love this song because of the start, I absolutely devour the unique and rarely used sounds in songs and this is one of the best examples. Dunno why there is no feature tho. The vibe fully changed after the first verse wtf, it's tropical now, love that, but also why. I liked the intro more in a way I have to say, but the afrobeat and the background sounds make this equally good I guess. The break is jazzy, but doesn't stand out. This will be an ever better listen if I do it second time, because I'll be familiar with it, it's basically a grower. Outro is a little boring, but fits the concept. 6th song, his most listened song this one is. It has a catchy start already. He sounds like Bob Dylan in some parts, but also extremely doesn't sometimes. Idk why this is the most popular song on the album, it must be connected to smth. Oh the magical instrument came in(I say that when idk the name of it), It's rainforesty. Oo the jazz after that is quite fun. God the music video shows how they play the music and it's so fun to watch them do it. 7th song, there was a woman's voice along with his in the beginning, and oh it just came back. I like this song the least, it's too slow and uninteresting, a filler song I presume. Nevermind, I checked how they played this live, basically a music video, and seeing them together is too good to ignore. Outro is weird af, love it still. 8th song, this one is sang in Zulu, feels like I'm in a church. The production is quite well done I must say. The vocal delivery is the best part here. Oh it's progressing into gospel, buut nope it doesn't. What an unique track, can't get over it anytime soon. 9th song, again the tropical vibes. This is one of the worst produced songs somehow. Even tho just now it has a rock element in it, I find it painful to listen to. Just no, it had some good parts but it ain't enough. 10th song, FUN start. It's danceable and jazzy. There is a big band playing definitely. I'd actually dance to it if I wasn't sick lol. It's not lyrically fun, as in I don't want to learn them. Dunno what else to say, it was just too short. 11th song, the beat at the start is everything. I thought he'd sing more happily, but only sonically I can hear it being upbeat. I think he naturally sounds sad. One of the best songs here. Honestly I want to give this 5 stars, but it's not perfect perfect, 4 stars is the right choice here. It has one of the most unique sounds I've ever heard to be honest, not some basic pop-folk-rock shit, thank god it wasn't that. The black artists being featured is such a cool thing, and I could never hate him for that. Actually I don't even the see rock part in it, which is not a bad thing nor good. I expected way less and I was impressed how the production got better and better.

It's his best album. And the songs haven't aged poorly.

what a sick little ditty! this album is genuinely so important with the messaging and themes and times and there's truly almost nothing like it. Shoutout Paul Simon man. while i do prefer his folk work, this is undeniable. 1.) under african skies 2.) you can call me al 3.) homeless

Pretty catchy but didn’t blow me away

some of songs felt not as enoyable as others, didnt felt them same yk. i still find this work pretty exciting, especially the first half of the record. Worth listening a lot.

4-5 stars

A good album to rediscover. Quite the powerful album at the time, I found it very approachable and was a window to many new forms of music for me, both the past of Simon and Garfunkel and the breadth of some musics from Africa. It's an occasional listen for me, I don't know the matching occasion. Maybe a long afternoon drive? Maybe painting a room? Unsure. 4 wobbly stars.

Really enjoyed this - so happy. Love the African influence too

Such a fun album! Call me Al is one of my all time favorite songs, and Diamonds on the Soles of her Shoes was also a hit. This was a very very high 4 for me, though it didn’t quite reach the 5 threshold.

i was looking forward to this album, i didn’t know what to really expect, it was different to what i would thought, you can call me al and graceland are both amazing songs, i found the album had this semi african style brought into it through the whole thing, i really enjoyed it overall

Not sure how much of this would fly today, but it is interesting. The African sounds work very well with Paul Simon’s music. Difficult to separate from The Lion King for modern ears but it was a good listen!

Love him, definitely eccentric

Graceland is such a great story. It's fun and charming and wistful at the same time. This is accessible world music which sounds terrible but I wonder if some of the issues in South Africa or the quality of some of its musicians wouldn't have gotten as much attention without it. A lot of great stories in these songs and just a hopeful feeling throughout. This album has a distinctive sound, even if I didn't know if a specific song was from this album it feels like it would be pretty evident. Ladysmith Black Mombazo have beautiful voices. This is such a departure from Simon and Garfunkel. Zydeco is a universally bad genre and Paul Simon's voice (accent and tone) does not pair well with it. The back half of the album is a significant disappointment after the first half.

I was really not expecting to like this as much as I did! A real fun album with a cohesive sound, makes for great background music.

A unique album that is probably Paul Simon's best work. He incorporates various sounds that not many mainstream artists use. I can see why the unique sound might put some people off, as it feels like it can be somewhat repetitive across the songs. However, it's a good album. The best song is You Can Call Me Al of course.

I dunno, man. I had 2 very different experiences with this in 1 day. The first listen I found Some fun, jubilant moments. Pretty well written songs, particularly vocal parts. Inspiration from a variety of cultures. But it still don’t love it. It’s decent. My second listen left me contemplative, Inspired, and happy. I listened as I ran along the beach in Sag Harbor, NY (not too far from Simon’s solace in Montauk). I pictured Simon preparing to leave LI, searching for collaboration to fulfill his inspiration. I thought of myself - a scientist, a musician, a human - and how I seek inspiration and hope to synthesize that seamlessly with who I am and what I know. When does inspiration come? Where does it come from? How do we integrate it into ourselves? These are serious questions, but I finished the album with a sense of joy and fulfillment. Inspiration is there when we’re ready for it. When we find it, it comes out through a contagious exuberance and joy. We feel that in this record…but there’s still a few meh tracks.

I like the addition of African music into Paul Simon, only knew the lead single earlier

This is a banger. So much warmth and fun projecting out of this. To the people who cry cultural appropriation, this is a celebration of African music not theft.

Heard the Album many times a great one

Homeless is nog steeds mijn favoriete nummer van dit album.

Mint

I get I should like this, but I never want to listen to this africadabra album. This is a charity 4

First song I listened to with my now girlfriend was Diamonds On the Soles of Her Shoes. Great memories. This album is filled with great catchy songs and more of Paul Simons great writing. I quite like all the collabs here. This album is so close to a 5, but a few blemishes stop me from it. Does have an insane run from Diamonds to Crazy Love Pt. II though It's also uncanny hearing Paul Simon with 80s sounds

Hymns in those beautiful deep hums and bass that I’ve finally noticed the effect of. Talking about relationships with different people, journeys, movement both in lyrics and the sound. Obviously 3 of the best songs ever as well.

7 / 10 Folk de Paul Simon (Simon & Garfunkel), però muy fresco gracias al toque Africano. Sonidos diferentes, muy escucha le.

Upbeat, catchy songs. Big fan so far. Really want to learn how to sing the “Diamonds on the Soles of her Shoes” a capella part. I could listen to that song all day. You Can Call Me Al - absolute classic. A really good and enjoyable album.

This album was all over the place, but in a good way. The different parts of the world represented on the album kept you on your toes, and somehow Paul Simon’s voice blended in with all of them. There were a bunch of songs I enjoyed and of course You Can Call Me Al is timeless. For me, this is one of those albums that gets shafted by the rating system. Easily a nine out of ten, but it’s rounded down on the smaller scale.

I really enjoyed this! "Call Me Al" has been a staple of many playlists of mine, but I'm glad to say the rest of the album fits right along with it. I can clearly understand the vocals, but I still couldn't tell you a single meaning to a song. The melodies are light and fun and sometimes that's enough.

cool guy asf!! his lyrics are literally like complex stories filled with spiritual stuff, and the cultural diversity of sound!! slay paul simon (and btw i actuslly rated the previous album too high, so that one gets a three)

Yeah yeah I know but it’s hard not to like this.

Echt fucking geweldig! Uniek, maar makkelijk te luisteren

It's like Paul is having a party with a type of music only he likes.

Liked it a lot! Great Album! Love the african influence on this record! Really got the best out paul simon! And didn’t expect that he would go in this lane

A Simon classic.

Pretty good

O disco é impecável. Um prazer para os ouvidos com sons e ritmos variados.

Veel minder saai dan die albums met garfunkel

Favorite track - The Boy in the Bubble Least favorite - Crazy Love II It starts remarkably strong, and stays strong throughout. Although some songs certainly feel aged (Under African Skies, Homeless, Crazy Love II), what else can be expected from a 40 year old album. Generally speaking I’m not the biggest fan of Simon’s signature style, but it would be impossible to deny the skill found in every corner of the album.

The Boy In The Bubble Graceland I Know What I Know Diamonds on the Soles of Her Shoes You Can Call Me Al

So pleasant!

Great album, full of fun songs (with potentially questionable african influences), though I think a couple slower ones would fit well here to break the flow and occasional corniness. Stand-out: The Boy In The Bubble, Under African Skies

So I had been putting this off for ages and for various reasons so this is a return after about 2 months. I actually really enjoyed this a lot more than I thought i would - it reminded me a bit of the fifa World Cup 2010 soundtrack we had on the game

Well, it is a classic and it is for a reason! Truly great album full of wonderful pop tunes! Tinged with the African influence it’s really pleasant listening!

This was a catchy, fun album to listen to Top tracks: Graceland, Diamonds on the Soles of Her Shoes, You Can Call Me Al

I used to listen to this album all the time. Great album a lot of social commentary.

Ultra eclectic sweet and chill album full of global genres with toe tapping rhythms and the light falsetto of Paul Simon. Great album but it might drive some crazy for how upbeat it is.

This album is just such a nice listen, so pleasant in every way. The South African influence enhances and inspires an already brilliant base to create something you just don't ever really want to end. I could listen to this for hours, I am at peace. Fav songs: - Graceland - Diamonds on the Soles of Her Shoes - You Can Call Me Al - Under African Skies - Homeless - Crazy Love Vol II

I can see where Vampire Weekend got their inspiration.

When I first heard this album (waaaaay back) I remember not liking it all that much - I think I mainly found the African music fusions tacky when paired with the generally 80s-styled folk and pop-rock sounds. Returning to it now, I find I missed the entire point of this album because listening to it now, I see that it's just beaming with joy and happiness. Easy listening would be an understatement - every song here is just so pleasant to listen to musically, and Paul's talk-sing style on many of these songs is parts witty, vivid, and hilarious. 'You Can Call Me Al', even with its cheesy 80s horn and synth, perfectly encapsulates Paul's talents here as a songwriter. While I still have my issues with this album - primarily with its sporadic genre fusion attempts which don't always land for me, I certainly see the appeal of this widely praised album now more than ever. I think I'm just in a better place to appreciate it; not that I'm in the most "happy" place in my life now or anything, just that I'm more open to what this album's world, filled with love and passion, is willing to offer.

Musically speaking, really a great album. I should listen It more times to undertand better how much i could like it

A really great and chill album by Paul Simon. Just breathes of an easyness that is perfect for a warm afternoon. The African beats mixed with more folkey pop-tunes work really well. All tracks are good tracks. "Graceland" is a classic, "Diamonds on the soles of her shoes" and "Under African Skies" are also great. Honestly one of my least liked tracks is "You Can Call Me Al" not because it's bad but I feel it doesn't really fit on the album and it has been played to death. Debated on giving this a 5 but I'll settle for a very strong 4 since i gave Paul Simon a 5 already.

Pleasantly surprised.

I prefer Simon and Garfunkel. I think Paul Simon, left to his own devices, can get a little twee. You Can Call Me Al, and Graceland, are the best tracks on the album. The guitar-focussed songs are also generally better. This is a 3.5 for me.

listened on 08/08/25 whilst looking for jobs

Classic and chill

I didn't think I'd enjoy this, but it was surprisingly good. A fairly eclectic album in terms of styles, but all the songs worked pretty well. 4/5

The first four singles released off this album are all absolute winners: You Can Call Me Al, Graceland, The Boy In The Bubble & Diamonds On The Soles Of Her Shoes are each outstanding. The fifth single was Under African Skies, controversially including Linda Ronstadt’s vocals throughout. But the other great song on the album is Homeless, which like Diamonds etc. features Ladysmith Black Mambazo & like Diamonds etc. was co-written by Simon & Joseph Shabalala from Ladysmith. It was difficult at the time of the album’s release to avoid the debate over whether or not Simon should go to a still-segregated South Africa, and whether or not the album represented him stealing music from an ethnic underclass. I had no idea what was right or wrong at the time. He was a bit of a hero & I liked to think he was promoting South African music. But I really am still not sure. But as for the record, I think it was the last great album Paul Simon ever recorded.

La polémica decisión de saltarse el boicot a Suráfrica supuso para Paul Simon un sinfín de críticas que, con el paso del tiempo y viendo lo ocurrido después, se han demostrado tan injustas como inútiles. La colaboración de Simon con músicos surafricanos inspira la gran parte de un disco rompedor en el que se fusionan el rock y los sonidos nativos de una forma extraordinaria. Además del tema que da título al disco, destaca la colaboración con The Gaza Sisters y General M. D. Shirinda, "I Know What I Know", "Homeless", interpretada junto al grupo Ladysmith Black Mambazo, «Diamonds on the Soles of Her Shoes» compuesta conjuntamente con Joseph Shabalala (uno de los temas que más me gustan) y, por supuesto, el primer sencillo que se extrajo del disco: "You Can Call Me Al".

Surprisingly good

This is one of those classics I'd never listened to all the way through before. Great stuff

I'm not a fan of Paul Simon. But this definitely was a major album when it was released. In a time before the "World Music" of the 90s it was an encridibly important album for popularize unknown (at least for many) music styles. For this reason a "4". Otherwise it would have been a "3".

Pretty good most songs v strong.

Blah blah " cultural appropriation " blah blah " sanitized world music for whites" . Quite frankly piss off. Yes its watered down world music but it was how we discovered world music, no million songs at the press of a button. This album was a gateway to different sounds and cultures whilst maintaining an accessibility for western ears. Some will disagree and point out that they were experts on world music before this album but they wear tweed and think broccoli is a main course so who cares.

Actually really good. Great introduction and put together brilliantly. Very well liked.

African music added. Interesting sound.

Gear: Focal Clear (ZMFed) Artwork: auf den ersten Blick drängt sich da nicht der fantastische Einfluss afrikanischer Musik auf Mix (25th Anniversary Deluxe Edition): also jetzt nicht umwerfend aber definitiv mit ein paar Leckerchen in Sachen Bass und Rhytmus-Abteilung Musik: \"You Can Call Me Al\", \"Graceland\" und \"Homeless\" bleiben erfrischende Klassiker - und für mich mehr ehrliche Liebeserklärung als bemühter Anlass zur Kultur-Kontroverse 🤷‍♂️ Wertung: 🏇🏇🏇🏇/5 (inkl. +1 für \"You Can Call Me Al\")

4+

Upbeat and fun

favourite song: call me al great album

This album is giving me curious george movie vibes. This is fun plus I know one of the songs on this album! 4/5