Reviews (page 4 of 14)
I always go into a Paul simon album thinking it will sound a bit lame and I won’t think too much of it but I feel every time I’m pleasantly surprised. Can’t say that there was really a bad track on here, there was a good range of moods, and genre blends, the majority having a cool blues/country and folk sound worked very well with dashes of rock and reggae mixed into one or two songs. The second half of the album wasn’t quite as strong as the first but still pretty decent, my standout songs were ‘Peace like a river’ and ‘Duncan’. Overall, the album kept me entertained and was enjoyable to listen to.
I just couldnt find anything about this album particularly engaging and differentiating from any other songs from the. genre. I know that this album laid out a lot of who Paul Simon became to be in later years but that doesn't make it like it. But not necessarily offensive in any way so its a 2.
I feel like I can tell he was a nice guy. His music is alright.
Whilst not his best solo works it clearly has the makings of what he goes on to achieve later in his career
Enjoyed it, especially when it came to the acoustic guitar coming into the songs in a more powerful way. I thought it was a nice listening experience.
Superbe album, je ne connaissais Paul Simon que de "Sound of Silence" de Simon & Garfunkel, et ce deuxième album solo après leur division marque un changement de style que j'aime beaucoup, on a des moments de reggae, de violon, de bonne guitare folk.
Love it
it's 3.75 but today i'm feeling good
Pretty good!
kind of just an okayish guitar album, feels like a comfortable listen i guess
Barbaro
The first few on here were decent, but then I started falling asleep.
che me re sorprendió, es muy el estilo de música que podría escuchar todo el día. Súper de confort
Great songs
Wouldn't mind having this in the background while wondering through a hiking trail in a depressive episode
Such a gifted storyteller and songwriter. Not the best Paul Simon record but still excellent. Duncan is a highlight.
Slic album
Fav track: Paranoia Blues
Gorgeous collection of music from Mr. Simon. Favorite track: Me and Julio Down By the Schoolyard
Niet mijn smaak, paar nummers wel prima.
Not a bad album, but not as great as his other work. I knew "Me and Julio" and that's a great song. I also grew to like Dunan and the intro track Mother and Child Reunion. The songs are mostly little "portraits" of characters. The style is mostly folk, but with occasional splashes of other styles like blues or those Andean pan flutes used in El Condor Pasa.
Like Bob Dylan, I feel like Paul Simon is able to crank out folk rock classics that deserve their place on Best Song lists but... also like Dylan, Simon is capable of making half-baked free-verse ramblefests that probably didn't need to be commited to vinyl. I feel like we are getting equal doses of both those Simons here.
Clitoral atrophy is one of many areas of women's health care that's totally under researched and not well publicized. Somehow seemed related, I guess.
2/5 - While I see why this record is on the list, it really didn't do much for me. It just seemed lack luster, and meandering with nothing really grabbing my attention.
Idk i liked it at the start but then the harmonicas started and that country ahh guitar and i lost interest
I mean whatever.
Not my favorite Paul Simon record, but still good.
Very dub adjacent. Finger picking master
It was fine but boring. I typically don't listen to words the first time through an album, so perhaps I missed some excellent lyrics. But the music itself was light and a bit dull.
I find Paul Simon quite boring.
I enjoyed it a lot more that I expected. 4.5 stars
Muy adelantado a su época
Honestly just a kind of boring album. It feels like Paul Simon is trying to do new things musically, but is a little too scared to adapt his songwriting to something new, so everything feels a little flat. I think he’d go a lot farther with everything if the whole album was like Mother and Child Reunion. The lyricism is probably the best part, although it can be a little pointlessly self deprecating at times. His guitar playing is also really nice on the more traditional folky songs. Even with all of the experimentation, it ends up being just a kind of bland record. Paul Simon pronounces his ds really weirdly. Favorite songs: Mother and Child Reunion, Me and Julio Down by the Schoolyard, Peace Like a River
One of my favorite albums of all time. Listened to the vinyl hundreds of times growing up. Great songwriting, musicianship, and variety.
Great Album I have never heard. It had 1 song that I had heard before. But the entire album was solid gold
Chill album, I felt very neutral toward it overall
I just don't think I really vibe that much with Paul Simon. It's well written songs, he has a good voice and everything I just don't connect with it. Neat guitar playing on Armistice Day, otherwise pretty meh.
Hearing it in 2026 make it sound very old not my cup of tea
Mellow
8 - GOOD
This is a classic Paul Simon album - very clever lyrics, a wide variety of musical styles and instrumentation, and excellent production. Only a handful of the songs are really memorable, but none of them are bad. Extra bonus points for letting Stéphane Grappelli cut loose on "Hobo's Blues."
Was not familiar with this artist, the album is strong themed and very Herman
I’m not sure I’ve ever listened to this album from start to finish, which is disgraceful
I can respect it just not really my cup of tea. Sounds decent and I understand why people like the album. Kinda sounds like smthing Shaggy Rodgers would listen to.
Perfect for listening to on sunny late afternoons with mild weather, or after 10 p.m., with warm lighting, a glass of wine, on a kind of date with myself. 10/10
this website has been giving me a lot of Paul Simon lately and i'm not complaining! first time listening to one of his solo album's, and it has that same nostalgia of Simon & Garfunkel's music that makes you miss your childhood summers. i guess what i'm mostly missing from this though is Garfunkel's harmonies...? so i think i prefer the duo. but Simon will always be a wonderful writer, solo or not. favorite track: Peace Like a River. the guitar and steady drumming in this particular song really stuck to me
entiendo que es un gran álbum, pero no es un gran álbum para mí :c
Really enjoyed this!
Definitivt en Paul Simon-platta. Bästa låtarna: Duncan, Congratulations och Me And Julio Down By the Schoolyard
reminded me of songs like Brandy and Dancing in the Moonlight. This is the other side of 70s music i vibe with, the other being disco.
Kan denna grabben bara göra musik där han gör en sämre version av andra kulturers musik?
Not bad overall. Has some good songs but better with Garfunkel
Its ok
Great album. Classic Paul Simon. There is not a bad song on the album!!!
The album had two high water marks, “Mother and Child Reunion” and “Me and Julio Down by the Schoolyard”. Otherwise it was VERY heavy with early 70’s singer/songwriter with a guitar blah.
Listening session: march 13th, while commuting to internship Listened to before: heard one song before Thoughts: a great folk album with fun influences from around the world. My favourite part has to be the cuica that is being used on Me And Julio Down by the Schoolyard Favourite tracks: Duncan, Run That Body Down & Me And Julio Down by the Schoolyard
Not his greatest, but certainly shows signs of the great things that are yet to come
alles met simon & garfunkel is automatisch goed omdat mn moeder ervan houdt
Simon hold the Garfunkel. Sandwich is pretty plain without all the toppings
Album #90 Paul Simon: Paul Simon Who knew the short guy from Annie Hall could actually make good music? Paul Simon is, of course, one of the great American songwriters and was widely influential in bridging cultural gaps in music, specifically by bringing African music to the West through Graceland. I had never listened to any other solo project of his; however, despite being a pretty big fan of his work with Garfunkel, I’ve never felt too compelled to listen to most of his solo stuff. Though I enjoy Graceland, I would hardly hold it as a personal favourite, and I sort of find myself feeling that something is missing from Simon’s solo work. This album is another good example of that; overall, it was enjoyable with lots of good writing and melodies; however, some of these songs just felt a bit empty. The opener is great, and probably my favourite track here, because it has a complete sound with a lot going one; whereas the rest of the tracks feel a little bare bone. Perhaps I can listen to Simon’s voice without yearning for a bit of those magical Garfunkel harmonies. Me and Julio Down by the Schoolyard is a classic and the only song here that I had heard previously, but the rest I would chalk up to “good, but not essential”. Still a very good effort from Simon, and an album I enjoyed a great deal, I suppose I just don’t enjoy how some talk about Paul Simon like he was the all-talented one and that Garfunkel was some schmuck. Yes, Paul had the far more interesting solo career, but it’s not like he was putting out classics at the rate of a Bob Dylan (which I’ve actually seen comparisons to before. I don’t know why this review has had me defending Garfunkel against invisible haters, but I just wish they made more albums together; I like my Paul Simon music like I like my museums, with a healthy amount of Art. Best Songs: Mother and Child Reunion, Me and Julio Down by the Schoolyard, Duncan Worst Song: Paranoia Blues Score out of 10: 7
Pleasant
In my head this sits at a 4.5. It's really good; Me and Julio Down by the Schoolyard almost puts it at 5 by itself, and the whole first half of the album is great. The album loses me just a little in the back half, although I still think that section is decent. Ironically, in hearing some of the added demo versions of songs like Duncan, I actually like the demos more, which makes me think slightly less of the official album version. So we're settling on a 4.
the reggae song: not good. the blues songs: also not very good. the light and delicate folk songs: pretty nice actually. am i glad i listened: i dont know. deserves to be one of the 1001? ehhh. could leave it off.
Garfunkellel egy kicsit jobb volt azért.
I thought I hated the reggae style drag of "Mother and Child Reunion" but nope, total banger. Honestly, the whole album is and the younger me would be appalled at how genuinely great I find Paul Simon to be in my crippled dotage.
I never listened closely enough to “Mother and Child Reunion” to realize it’s a reggae song. Elsewhere, Paul Simon dabbles in slide-guitar blues, foreshadowing his later fascination with so-called “world music.” At any rate, this album, his first after parting ways with Art Garfunkel, shows Simon exhibiting considerable range in his songwriting. There are some peculiarities here: “Duncan” is a lovely folk tale —with flute! — about a fisherman’s son who leaves home and loses his virginity to a woman he sees preaching “about the Pentecost” in a parking lot. “Papa Hobo” is a strange tune set in Detroit, I think (or is the protagonist trying to go to Detroit for a job in an auto plant?). A quirky but enjoyable listen.
This is fine but didnt wow me as an undiscovered gem I'd missed out on for decades.
It's very good and has some great songs. But based on Simon's overall set of work, a couple of songs just not quite up to scratch.
not my thing
I knew a few of the songs, but didn't love any enough to add to a playlist.
Folky music with a touch of world and you get Paul Simon. Not bad but I have heard it before
Vibes
I was surprised by this album, I thought it was very pleasant to listen to. Sorry Paul for saying that “You Can Call Me Al” is a dumb song. I shouldn’t have doubted you.
not bad but other than Me and Julio not much stood out. Where's Art? Paul! Huhh Where's Art?!?!?
Cool, but it was better when he was African for a bit
Overly cutesy compared to his best work
Between the clunky lyrics, the vaguely racist inclusion of perfunctory nods towards "world" music (why does this open with a white man's reggae song?), and the blandness with which this now hits the ear - whether due to its influence or simply because it is actually just Quite Dull - makes this into yet another entry in my journal of thinking Paul Simon albums are pretty much fine. 2* to a fresh 2026 ear.
I liked it.
The guitar on this are very cool, an in-depth analysis of the text should require some time too. Overall a great album, expecially if you want to relax
Auggie and I listened to this album while I pinned my first ever insects! They were bees. :)
Kul
vibey one hehe
My first encounter with Simon and/or Garfunkel in this experience. It was enjoyable for the most part, even with the interesting choice to lead the album off with a reggae tune (but then again after listening to it I don't know where else you could have put it in the track list. I did enjoy the cool mix of styles Simon brings on this album and "Me and Julio Down by the Schoolyard" still slaps. However, the album did not do much to move the needle above a 3 for me. I have a hunch this won't be the only album featuring Mr. Simon I will hear during this journey and I am curious to see how the other albums compare.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Todella tylsä. ⭐⭐
Eh, fine. Nothing felt spectacular to me.
Me gusto la voz de el y la presencia y sonido de la guitarra acustica en todo el discco. Canciones muy tranquilas y lindas melodias.
I like some of Paul Simons stuff, but can take or leave most of it. There are some good songs on this, Me and Julio down by the school yard is instantly recognisable. Other than a couple of tracks, nothing much stands out for me. 3 stars because I recognise his ability, but not something I'm likely to listen to again.
Franchement je me suis bien ambiancée je m'y attendais pas pour un artiste aux vibe blues/country !
J’aime bien la voix et les chœurs Un peu trop calme quand même..
Quelques pistes sympa !
Pretty good, fun mellow album. Has Julio.
Nice background music for a doctors office waiting room.
Waowawewa vilket album!!! Första låten Duncan tog mig verkligen, älskar flöjten??? Gillar mycket panoreringen av gitarrerna i me and Julio…, och i allmänhet på typ alla låtarna. Papa hobo jättemysig kommer lyssna på sommaren, hahaha kul med det buzzande bas munspelet (googlade och verkar vara det??) Kul också att han slängt med några extra demos i slutet. Mer Paul Simon kan man väl inte få? Man känner sig glad och mysig och sådär lite lagomt skönt nostalgisk. Skön blandning av vibes. Inte något jag hade kunnat lyssna på hela tiden men helt klart otroligt! Det jag inser är att jag har lyssnat alldeles för lite på Paul Simon 8,5/10
Love this album!
I totally get it
I LOVE Simon & Garfunkel, and Paul Simon, but somehow I've never heard this one before.
Biggest two things I learned from this album is that Paul Simon is actually a beast on guitar, and that gatorade was that culturally prominent in 1972. I thought it was an 80s thing. Also these songs are great.
An incredibly enchanting album. Simon's vocals and acoustic guitar are a lethal combination. Also a shoutout to the various instruments that appeared throughout the album, those were really good. Favorite Track: Paranoia Blues
a couple of pleasant singles, but largely insubstantial and forgettable
Cool but not fully into folky music but liked two songs from album
Parecia, ao fim das 3 primeiras músicas, que ia ser um bom álbum. No mínimo um forte 3. Acabou por ser um 3/5, nada de especial. Faz lembrar um Bob Dylan, mas não tão bom claro. Duncan foi a música que mais gostei.
Like Lennon and McCartney’s early solo efforts, there’s a sense that this is missing a piece. There’s a big Garfunkel-sized hole here. Every song would be improved by his harmony vocals.
Not my favorite album but still stellar idk do I do 4 or 5
Solid
Oh god make it stop - it’s like “Cultural Appropriation - The Album” 😂
3/5. Had Simon and Garfunkel yesterday and today I get solo Paul Simon. Anyway, as the story goes, after Bridge over Troubled Water Simon and Garfunkel followed in the footsteps of their greatest influence (the Everly Brothers) and started absolutely hating each other. So they went their separate ways and this self titled was one of Paul Simon’s early solo records. And it’s alright, you get the expected folk music but also some bluesier songs and some Latin American influence in the percussion. At its high points there’s some great songs on the level of some Simon and Garfunkel stuff such as “me and Julio down by the school yard” but there’s also a few songs that are just kinda okay.
Heard Before? Obviously. Notes: - chock full of his typical genre pastiche (or cultural appropriation depending on your outlook). this mostly works. - almost the archetype of a lyrics album. thoughtful, clever, subtle, emotional. - at the same time, so many cool sounds: the flutes on "Duncan", the dobro on several tracks, the cuica on "Julio", etc. - for me, however, the middle stretch sags heavily with unremarkable arrangements and hushed production. - I didn't remember "Paranoia Blues". it's a gem. Verdict: Lots to love and to learn from, but fails to fully embrace experimentation across the whole runtime. Listen Again? I can forsee a Paul Simon discography crawl sometime in my future.
Self named album...pretty average with no memorable mentions.
Two great songs and a bunch of swingin' paps.
Some of the Songs were good but didn't really standout for me. Not my Type i would say
Surprise for me!! Loved it. Great guitar. 4.5
Un Clonazepam hecho álbum, no es mi estilo de música
Charming little album here by Paul Simon of Simon and Garfunkel fame. This is the first solo album for him of 3 I’ve rolled for this project, following the duo’s famous Bridge over Troubled Water. While both are great Folk albums in their own right, I thought that Self Titled by Paul Simon is more adventurous, has a lot more variety than the very calm Bridge, and actually enjoyed it slightly more. They’re still comparable of course, but I liked how many different places this album attempted to go, and found it to mostly be a good call with every song. My favorites of the bunch this time were “Mother and Child Reunion” and “Armistice Day”. Nothing absolutely wowed me on this one, but every song being so happy and full of joy is really felt, and the multiple different vibes from song to song are really felt. From what I believe is a flute on “Duncan”, to the very Jazzy, mostly violin laden “Hobo’s Blues”, Paul was not afraid to take some risks with this one, and as previously mentioned, it makes every song feel fresh and memorable. Also worth mentioning is that it’s just pretty surprisingly funny at times, and the lyrics, as well as some of the song names and concepts, caught me off guard a bit. The very first lyrics to “Duncan” being “Couple in the next room, bound to win a prize”, sung in Paul’s down to Earth and calm voice, are so comically out of place with what’s actually being said, and it’s fantastic. I like some humor in my Folk albums, and this one has it in spades. So, while it’s still not exactly the type of music I listen to very often, this one is still going to stick with me for a little while longer. Cool album art too. Bro just kind of looks like a bit of a badass in that outfit, not going to lie to you. Good stuff, very excited for the other 2 Paul Simon albums.
como un reggae
#52/1001 🇺🇸 Always enjoyed Paul Simon's music, but this album is new to me. It doesnt stand out as an out and out classic, but its a step away from the folkier sound of his work with Garfunkle and moving in a more experimental route. I'll come back for another listen. Best Tracks: Duncan, Paranoia Blues, Me and Julio down by the Schoolyard.
I like this a lot. Never would have listened to Paul Simon without this list!
Mellow
v good, but simon and garfunkel were better together
no se
I like a few songs, but not quite to my taste to hit replay immediately
A great album from a great lyricist.
Is not for me, but it has a lot of work on it.
nog nooit dit album van hem geluisterd. nuchtere vrolijke muziek/bluesy.
Me and Julio is a banger, and there's a couple of other good tunes here, but they are doing a lot of heavy lifting of the rest imo.
WAY TO GO PAUL
Album 1061 of 1089 Paul Simon - Paul Simon (1972) Rating : 5 / 5 Technically his solo debut, but it’s hard to think of it that way after the incredible run he had with Simon & Garfunkel. This doesn’t feel like someone starting over. It feels like someone continuing the story and just turning the page to a new chapter. For me, it almost plays like a greatest hits album. Every track feels memorable. The songwriting is heartfelt and sharp, as always, and the performances are strong but understated. He doesn’t oversell anything. He lets the songs do the work. Comparing it to the Simon & Garfunkel catalog is interesting. The harmonies with Art brought a certain lift and polish that can’t be duplicated as that blend was special. But here, Simon proves that the foundation was always his songwriting. Stripped of the famous vocal pairing, the songs still stand tall. In some ways, the solo setting makes them feel even more personal and direct. There’s also a subtle expansion in sound here with hints of global influence and rhythmic exploration that would show up even more in later albums. You can hear an artist stretching without abandoning what made him great in the first place. What is not to like? Thoughtful lyrics, timeless melodies, and a writer who clearly understands how to craft a song that sticks. I’ve always respected Paul Simon, and this album does nothing to change that.
A lovely Paul Simon album of mostly quiet folk songs. The lyrics are poetic and writerly. And as always, he has a beautiful voice. Two songs stand out a with a bigger, brighter energy: “Mother and Child Reunion” and “Me and Julio Down By the Schoolyard.” Both are great songs, especially “Me and Julio.” That’s one of those amazing songs that absolutely everyone loves. You can change a bad day to a good one with that song.
I think my favorite reviews on this list are ones where I see an album name or cover pop up and I get brought back to some specific period of my life, where I can then share a bit about that. I didn't grow up with Paul Simon, but "Me and Julio Down by the Schoolyard" is a song that for me is so strongly tied to the first few years of dating my wife that I can't help but spill my anecdotes all around whenever I hear it. I swear 99% of the times that I've heard this song, it was being played by a family friend (singing and playing guitar) at a family BBQ, and at every BBQ he would bring his guitar and play this song- so it's a really strong neural connection for me. I can smell the grill, taste the hot dogs, and feel the sun on my skin. Something that I find interesting is how Paul Simon will write songs about some niche experience; like "Mother and Child Reunion" is such a unique circumstance to write a song about. Starting "Run That Body Down" with a story about him going to the doctor? Awesome. Nice album. Hard rate. Between a 3 and a 4 for me, like a 3.8. High enough for a round-up.
Gee I wanted to really like this. Instead it felt scattered inconsistent and long. No real standouts. Lisa largely agrees. 3/5
Usually takes me a while to warm up to new albums, but a lot of these songs were instant hits for me. I like the acoustics. Going to revisit some of the songs.
me dió buenas vibes de viaje en auto. Buen sonido pero siento que le faltó más, no es un album que escucharía
Actually pretty darn good. I liked it. Only later I realised it was Simon from Simon and Garfunkel. Its a good album and it has good tunes.
Not bad. Some good stuff mixed in. Very folky. Idk if I have any detailed notes, didn’t listen close enough tbh. And wasn’t interested enough to listen so closely, it didn’t catch my attention enough.
Great record. Bluesy and full of feeling. Interesting elements throughout each song, loved it.
not totally my tempo although good Will I listen to again:20%
gostei bastante da vibe do álbum, sou leiga quanto a gênero de música, mas sei que nem tudo se resume a gênero, às vezes é mais sobre qual sensação uma música pode te proporcionar, e esse álbum, no geral, me trouxe yma vibe tranquila. exatamente o que eu precisava no momento.
thanks!
folk rock excellence. bet paul simon is nostalgic af.
I don't know what to do with this one. It's a very fine album. A mid Paul Simon album. So, a mid rating.
I enjoyed the whole album, recognising Me and Julio Down By the Schoolyard. The overall acoustic, singer/songwriter feel is calming and intricate. I feel that the album would work really well shuffled or played in order, I must admit I did not listen to all the lyrics so do not know what all the songs are about. My favourite song off of the album was Paranoia Blues, it really scratches a good itch in my head listening to it.
Lovely stuff - genre hopping and well crafted
not something that I usually enjoy, but it's a really nice album!
I just had a self-titled folk-rock album (Fred Neil)yesterday! Come on, man! And this is the fourth album featuring Paul Simon I've had(after Bridge Over Troubled Water, Graceland, and Parsley, Sage, Rosemary, and Thyme, in that order)! I'm only 198 albums in, man! As far as the actual album, it's a pretty good folk-rock album. I actually think that this is better than Graceland, as it showcases Simon doing what he does best. And what he does best is write relatable songs for everyday people and sing them with a lovely tenor voice. That pretty much accurately describes this album, though there is some reggae influence in the opener. In the end, it's hard to go wrong with this era of Paul Simon, and this album doesn't disappoint.
Soulful original Simon
I'm in the camp that likes Paul Simon's ventures into different musical genres. Not quite Graceland, but great songs and songwriting nevertheless.
He’s better with his mate
Honestly didn't think PS started appropriating other music styles until the grand heist that is Gracelands (which I'm sure we'll come to another day), but some of the tracks here suggest that obviously wasn't the case. Bitch over, this feels like a pretty average outing. Rarely jarrs. But never hits any emotional highs, musically or lyrically, with the possible exception of Me and Julio which carries the album. I really don't think I'll be returning to this one. And that, my friend, is a 2*
Standard fare. Easy to listen to, but doesn't stand out it too many ways. Strong songwriting as you'd expect from Mr. Paul. Probably on the higher side of 3, but not too high.
Reggae, música peruana, blues, mostrando quien era la mete maestra detrás peo mucho más laid back que los discos de Simon & Garfunkel. Se nota que no traía el cora roto como con 50 ways to leave your lover.
I’m still waiting for the day a Paul Simon album will disappoint me, and so far, that day hasn’t come. His debut solo record, Paul Simon, is everything one could expect from him, and maybe even a little more. There’s something very free about this album. You can hear him stepping into his own identity, experimenting with different sounds while maintaining the lyrical intelligence and emotional sensitivity that define his work. His songwriting feels effortless, moving naturally between humor, melancholy, and observation. It’s intimate without being heavy, and thoughtful without ever losing its warmth. What I admire most is how human it feels. Nothing sounds forced. The melodies are inviting, the arrangements are tasteful, and his voice carries that familiar sense of quiet confidence. It’s the sound of an artist who knows exactly who he is, even at the very beginning of his solo journey. My personal favorites are Me and Julio Down by the Schoolyard, which is simply irresistible in its rhythm and storytelling, Paranoia Blues, where his ironic humor and personality shine through, and Congratulations, a beautiful and bittersweet closing moment that stays with you. It’s another excellent album in a discography that, in my experience, has been consistently rewarding.
I honestly didn’t feel lime finishing it.
q linda voz y q acordes emeceros x momentos no
Folk/rock. Algumas músicas bem legais e outras ok. Só ganha 3 pq nao tem 3.5
i was leaning towards giving this a 4 during the first few songs but kinda lost interest in the second half. it sounds very nostalgic, like one of those albums you heard a lot as a child that you still adore as an adult even if it doesn't really match up with your music taste anymore
Especially nothing special.
Nice, but not great
This just shows that Simon has always been such a craftsman, truly a composer who weaves together parts to create richness and depth in his songs.
I could write pages on the tightness of this album, its wealth of ideas of talent. The liminal feeling of lost youth and wistfulness, Paul’s old-soul emerging after ending his run with Arty. But this was the record that I sung nearly top-to-bottom at my father’s bedside, and I think that’s enough.
Melancholic and lyrical poetry. Proving that Paul can stand on his own and deliver a genre defining performance.
First time diving into Paul Simon. Pretty nice, pretty chill, couple of jams
Good. Simple. A classic seaman’s album.
yeah this just didn’t do it for me like Graceland did. nothing that bad about this album but nothing THAT great either?
i luv paul simon and his cool coat in the album art. i also like that this album still retains some S&G sound even though he'd split from art by this point. i'm an art apologist and i don't like any of paul simon's solo work more than S&G, but because this album sounds pretty similar, i'm quite fond of it
I have been loving this album so much
I’m sorry Paul Simon, I’m very jet-lagged and I did not give a shit about this album 1.5-2
Graceland is great but this album has always defined Paul Simon's solo music for me, which is what a self-titled album should do.
Having track 1 of your first post split album be as good as “Mother and Child Reunion” is the musical equivalent of “I drink your milkshake.” Somewhere between a 3-4.
Mild and inoffensive
I have a longstanding policy of preferring Simon with Garfunkel, but his self-titled is probably my favorite oh his solo work. Solid tunes to be found here, including his greatest solo song, Me and Julio Down by the Schoolyard.
Thus is kind of cute. Not in a dismissive way more in a “this is quietly charming and self-aware” way. It’s playful and thoughtful without ever trying to feel monumental, and I actually liked that it didn’t aim for some huge, cohesive statement. The stripped-back production makes everything feel human and lived-in, which works in its favour. It’s not an all-time, life-changing album for me, but it’s the kind of record you throw on and slowly warm up to more each time.
Me and Julio are great, the rest... 🤷♀️
I will forever love Me and Julio.
I was half listening to this while doing other things. Not the best way to do justice to Paul Simon and his lyrics. Sorry Paul.
Paul Simon’s catchy and cool enough on here. There’s a good variety of music to go along with his witty lyrics. This is more of a middle of the road album of his, his best is yet to come.
★★★¾
Lágstemmd og einföld production svona oftast, fiðlan í Hobo's blues vekur mann hressilega og það er helst til mikið af slide gítar fyrir minn smekk. Mörg ljómandi góð lög og ánægjuleg hlustun, en ég fer ekki með hana í fimmu.
Paul Simon's crafted one of the most amazing catalogs ever. Whether it's his work with Garfunkel, albums like Graceland (a masterpiece), or individual songs such as Kodachrome, there's just so much to love about what he has brought to music. I'm afraid that becomes a double-edged sword for me, as when I listen to this debut solo album, I just find that it is lacking vs. a ton of his other work. Yeah, there are some good songs on here. I really liked Peace Like a River, which is a track I have never heard before. Also, Mother and Child Reunion and Me and Julio Down By The Schoolyard are good songs, but neither is amazing for me. The rest of the album felt very average, or at least it pales in comparison to things like Graceland. This means it's a 3 star album for me, nothing more.
Favorites: Mother and Child Reunion, Me and Julio Down by the Schoolyard Least favorites: Armistice Day, Paranoia Blues Rating (out of 10): 7.5/10
Great job Paul
Interesting to listen to right after Graceland, the highs are very high with only a couple of forgettable tracks. At times I thought Simon was in the same category as Dylan, at others The Beatles. He has such a depth of musical range it's wild. Also, Mother and Child Reunion lives rent free in my head forever. Probably a 3.5 for me, but bumping.
Prima piesă o fost fier
8/10 Best songs: Me and Julio Down by the School Yard, Peace Like a River, Paranoid Blues Second Paul Simon album I've come across on this list, and I like it even more than the other. It's funny that the first time I ever came across his music was a remake? adaptation? of Me and Julio Down by the School Yard by Chk Chk Chk from the early 2000s called "Me and Giuliani Down by the School Yard (A True Story)." I like this album, it's very chill folk.
While a bit meandering at times, still an album of enjoyable folky 70s pop. Particularly enjoy the tracks featuring a more rocky, electric guitar sound like Armistice Day. Looking forward to when this list has me relisten to Graceland, which is probably the one album of Simon's that 100% deserves its spot on the roster. 7.5, maybe an 8/10.
Great folk and blues record, lyrics really hit just about every emotion. Favourite track: Run That Body Down
8/10 A solid folk album. First time I listen to Paul Simon, really enjoyed the variety in sounds used here.
Sometimes Simon is better solo. This is not the time. Still good, though.
I enjoyed it, and it was a good piece of folk music??? I think that it could’ve given more music though instead of other versions of songs.
I was quite happy when this album appeared this morning. I'd never heard a Paul Simon song that I'd disliked before today. Sadly, I found a lot of the lyrics supercilious. If Paul was starting out on his life journey now, I reckon he'd be an insufferable Instagram influencer, full of pointless and annoying life hacks. Saved from a one star rating by Julio, which I can't find it in my heart to hate, even if it is a bit sub-Dylan.
Well, this was sure nice. It really grew on me -- listening to "Mother and Child Reunion," I was pretty damn skeptical. But after a full album re-listen, that seriously is the only dud on this record. My God, this dude can write a song. Not to mention, he has a beautiful voice and can play the heck out of a guitar. Paul Simon has the lyrical poeticism of Bob Dylan, without sounding like a dying cat. Total win in my book.
This is easily my favorite Paul Simon album and the one I come back to most often. Unfortunately, I think this one is often overlooked in favor of bigger artistic statements, such as Graceland, or the classics by Simon and Garfunkel. If true, that's a real shame, as this is Simon at his grittiest. Technically, this is his second solo album, but it was the first after the breakup of Simon and Garfunkel, so I consider it the true beginning of Simon's solo career. Paul Simon oozes with raw character and revels in simple musicianship and authentic emotional expression. Virtually every song is a heartbreaking exercise in the intimacy of sonder, a portrait of a character that is some dimension (both real and imaginary) of Simon himself. Oddly enough, I'm not sure that I've ever listened to this album on headphones. Doing so for this review gave me a much better appreciation of Simon's guitar playing. For example, I spent a while trying to figure out who performed the beautiful fingerpicking on "Peace Like A River," but I'm pretty sure it was Simon himself. Gorgeous. There's an episode in Season 1 of Curb Your Enthusiasm where Larry David's bad behavior cheats him out of seeing Paul Simon (or so he thinks). He and Cheryl are later sitting on the couch, listening to "Still Crazy After All These Years," Larry holding the CD booklet, reading and singing along. Cheryl, understandably annoyed with missing out on the show, gets up, leaving Larry alone with the music and his thoughts. It's one of the rare moments when Larry David shows any genuine remorse for his actions. I'm reminded of that scene when I listen to any Paul Simon. The message to me is clear. No matter how cynical or misanthropic a person is, Paul Simon can make them nostalgic and melancholy. This album always makes me nostalgic and melancholy. I love it. Five stars.
It is Paul Simon so of course it’s going to be good, but I definitely think he has better albums. Mother and Child Reunion is really good. I love the flute/woodwind in Duncan. No hate, but the last few songs were mid. However, overall a great listen, has the folk vibes which is always good.
Enjoyed it more than I thought I would on the second listen.
Better than Graceland. Very cool use of different instruments. One of the, if not the best album so far.
Saved from a 2 by a couple of decent songs. Just found it a bit dull overall.
Middle of the road music. 1 or 2 enjoyable songs.
A broad spectrum of enjoyable songs.
Definitely a hit and miss album. Listened to some of these a million times already and others are way out of left field.
There is some good stuff on this album but nothing that I super loved. A pretty decent album but nothing to write home about.
4/10 - I thought the first song was the most interesting song and it went downhill from there.
This is just a fine album. It pales in comparison to what Paul Simon had done with Simon and Garfunkel and what he will do in the future, specifically with Graceland. 5/10
Elite level storytelling and great music go to with it. Never bored on this one, super great.
Cada dos álbumes, uno es de este tipo de artista. Basta. 4/10
One of my all time favorites. Hot on the heels of the breakup of his hit duo, Paul establishes the world music and eclectic influences that would mark his solo career while still being rooted in the songwriting sensibilities that made Simon & Garfunkel successful.
There are some tracks here which are just flawless to me. A timeless songwriter showing why he's timeless. The mixing from Roy Halee is also some of the most judicious I've seen from him. Much to appreciate here.
Lots of familiar songs, excellent songwriting
Just 4 days after Simon & Garfunkle this pops up. Convinced the hood of his coat on the album cover is some kind of passive aggressive dig at Garfunkle's hairdo. Me & Julio isn't a bad song but most of the album is twee shit and bland middle of the road 60s/70s folk pop with a few nods to reggae, blues and other music genres. 2 out of 5 stars only.
luh calm album
Easy on ears, soft and pretty, very high quality production, good lyricism, good variation in tracks but kept its flow. As its my first album i'll bump it up a little but it was very enjoyable!
Great example of a cleanly engineered album. Sparse arrangements that don't have the impact a 21st century listener may be accustomed to. Paul Simon is a poet and sometimes that's to his detriment. There's a single hit here for a reason.
Donnerstag, 19.02.2026 ~ Mittags ~ In der Ringbahn - auf dem Weg zur Uni. Platz am Fenster; Sonnenschein in meinem Gesicht; in einem Zug durchgehört. Passend zu meiner Stimmung.
Donnerstag, 19.02.2026 Beim kochen einer Bolognese nach Marcella Hazans NYT Rezept. Beim Laufen von Dahlem Dorf zur Mensa der FU Berlin, im Aufenthaltsraum der Campusbibliothek der FU Berlin
Paul Simon is always easy to listen to.
I feel like im hearing same song across whole album. Only „Me and Julio” stands out.
Meh
Not my favourite, but good enough
Needs more pan flute. No really. I don’t really have many complaints with this album. There’s a wide variety of instrumentation. The guitar playing is so good at times (see: “Armistice Day”). “Me and Julio Down by the Schoolyard” makes me think of The Royal Tenenbaums, so it has that going for it, which is nice. I enjoy Paul Simon's singing. Despite all this though, I can't quite elevate it to a 5, but it's still a high 4/5.
2/5 nothing special just kinda sounds like a soundtrack to a movie your grandma likes. i did like peace like a river. nothing i would ever really listen to again though.
A few catchy songs but nothing really wowed me on this album.
3/5 Me and Julio Mother and Child Reunion Paranoia Blues
His voice is insane. High-key better off without Garfunkel
Still not too keen on his voice, but his skills as a player and a songwriter are really impressive
There’s something so warm and cozy about this album. Paul Simon displays a pretty minimalist ensuite of jammy blues songs that you can’t help but smile to. It’s a truly heartwarming album, and a wonderful experience. The incredible acoustic guitar playing on this album is second to none. You can easily get lost in some of the intricacies. But above it all is Paul Simon’s warm charm that just totally irresistible. Fantastic listen, really glad I heard this before I die
I've known and liked Paul Simon (the artist) for a long time, with and without Garfunkel. I also saw him at his massive free concert in Central Park in New York City in 1991. But I'm generally more familiar with his radio hits and haven't really dived into his deep cuts. So I'm very curious to actually spend time with this one. Before listening to this album as part of this project, I already had 3 songs "liked" on Spotify - "Mother and Child Reunion", "Duncan", "Me and Julio Down by the Schoolyard". Still like those ones. After listening 3 times, I ended up "liking" 6 more songs - "Everything Put Together Falls Apart", "Run that Body Down", "Armistice Day", "Peace Like a River", "Paranoia Blues" and "Congratulations". These all grew on me - based on the lyrics and the melodies and music. They slowly pull you in. Observation on Papa Hobo: I didn't realize Gatorade was a product in 1972. I was a kid then and don't remember it even existing at that time. Who knew? Liked songs on Spotify: 9/11 Rating: 4/5
The first known case of white boy reggae!! In all seriousness, a great album. Whilst I do prefer his earlier work, some of these songs absolutely blow me away. No two songs sound alike, which can not be said of many albums.
Never heard of this Paul Simon guy but he slaps. Favorites: Run That Body Down, Armistice Day, Hobo's Blues, Paranoia Blues Thoughts: I think this especially hit for me since I finished RDR2 recently and this type of music has grown on me. The twangs are hitting for me. Defintely worth a relisten.
-fun and funky -unique voice -surely not better than Graceland, but still good
I don't typically like folk, but this wasn't bad! Paul Simon has a nice voice and is complimented by his music style
Not overly listened to Paul Simon before this and this was much better than I expected. I always find it funny when someone self names an album that’s not a band. Imagine an album called Michael Colhoun 😂
Paul Simon is actually a very good guitar player. This is decent, but knowing Bridge Over Troubled Water had already come out by this point, it’s not his best work
Pretty relaxing. Huh, didn't know Paul Simon did Blues songs.
Falls just short in a lot of ways for me. Not catchy enough to be good '70s folk pop, not poetic enough to be good Blues or standard Folk, not leaning into influences enough to match up to Graceland. Highlights: "Run That Body Down", "Me and Julio Down by the Schoolyard"
This one surprised me, who know this guy had groove? Anyways this albums pretty cool, the ballads are really fun and the lyrics are straightforward as they can be, but can still engage you, even when its just him singing and the guitar. That dude knows how to play a guitar btw, the little euphemisms that he does with his guitar really adds a lot to whatever he's playing. 9/10
Prefer the double act material more but this is still really good.
I’ve always (at the risk of being thought a massive weirdo - as ever) thought that there’s a chance Paul Simon is UNDERrated as a songwriter. Maybe because he hasn’t made that many good albums - but this might honestly be my favorite. What’s not to like? Mother and Child Reunion? Good, Me and Julio? Good. Meat? Good. Hang on I thought I was Joey Tribbiani for a minute. Duncan? Good. Are thise pan pipes sort of cliched and annoying? Sure, but they’re only cliched because of the phase he went through of slapping them on all over. It’s kind of slight, but also kinda great.
Yea
album cover looks so cute 10/10 Apart from that, the songs are also cute. I like it. It feels like a quiet album, reminicising of Simon & Garfunkel obviously, but it has its own flair. song writing is great, hate demo versions i do not need to hear them leave them be.
Can't see the appeal.
Very pleasant listen
I found this balanced in many aspects
I LOVE this album, especially Mother and child reunion, Duncan, Me and Julio down by the schoolyard, and Peace by the river. Beautiful music, voice, and lyrics!
I already had a few favs on this album, but listening through the whole thing made me appreciate it more. It’s understated, well-produced, and very much in my lane
Hell yeah
un disco bello, creo que crece con cada escuchada. Ninguna canción me conmovió o me enloqueció de más, puntos para Run that body down que fue un gran tema. Seguramente con cada escucha se vuelva mejor! me trajo vibras a blonde on blonde pero sin la epica dylan, quizás le falto un cambio de emociones entre tema y tema
un album para escuchar en algun atardecer de verano. es el tipo de musica que aprecias cuando alguien mas la pone y crea un momento lindo. escucharla intencionalmente me hizo sentirla aburrida y bastante lenta. ninguna cancion en particular resono conmigo, ni la letra. la voz es muy bonita, pero nada mas
Quaint, whimsical album. Thank you Simon (not Garfunkel)
не знаю что там пол делал с гарфанкелом вместе, но он и один справляется
Hey, he was into other genres well before Graceland, how do you like that. I suspect this was a big one for Britt Daniel.
It was fine, nothing stuck out to me although I had heard the Julio down by the schoolyard song before! I wouldn't go back to it, but I could understand why it's on this list.
Surface level folk. Thought the tubes were good but nothing stood out to me. Will most likely forget about this.
Paar classics, maar ook wat fillers er tussen
A little less interesting and more poppy to me than graceland to me. Though still a solid experience
Last fall, I got really into Simon and Garfunkel’s discography, so I was happy to see this one come up. I thought I’d like it more, but it was still a delight of a listen. I can appreciate that Paul Simon was trying to differentiate himself as a solo artist from his earlier works in a duo. The songs are very distinct from each other and take on a lot of different styles.
Really good! Genuinely no super familiar with Paul Simon's stuff and I really liked it. Essentially his first widely released solo album and it's clearly consciously moving forwards from his Simon and Garfunkel stuff. Early bits of the world music stuff he would dive deeper into later. Strong lyrics and a great variety of moods in the songs.
I actually really liked this one. I kinda wish it was somewhat more lyrically deep, but it's good enough. I really liked his voice, which I wasn't expecting and I also loved the instrumentation. Excited to hear more of his stuff 4.25/5
Great album. Have loved it for years.
Woah I did not expect to like this so much! Paul Simon just has an inherent likeability to him. Everything here works, the storytelling, genre shifts, it's all so good! A classic.
Beautiful, also huge nostalgia trip, I used to listen to my dad's Paul Simon vinyl when I was a kid
Very enjoyable!
Great album. Songs like Duncan are excellent and memorable.
Not having been a fan of Graceland, I had low expectations going into this album, but I was actually very shocked at how fun and playful it was! Paul Simon definitely works better with the instrumentation stripped down, he eminates American Belle and Sebastian energy, in a great way. Me and Julio is a standout for a reason, would be very interested to explore the rest of his 70s catalogue after this.
Alright.
I adore this album!
3/5, but it is so close to a 4. It's a lovely album. Simon is a wonderful composer, and the album is arranged and produced well. He also has this honesty and down-to-earth quality about him that really endears me to his music, and those are both on display here. What pulls me back from a 4 is that only two songs stand out: "Me and Julio," and "Run That Body Down." The rest are a nice listen but on the whole forgettable.
This album was alright. By digging further into the Wikipedia I had more appreciation for Simon’s stylistic experimentation, but ultimately it felt too disjointed and the lyrics and music never really reeled me in. A fine but kind of boring listen for me.
Great artist. Love his sound, and music. One of many great albums.
I prefer Garfunkel.... (1/5) Just joking. I liked this peaceful, smooth album. This was the first album that I actually heard of before playing it in this 1001 album collection. Best songs were Mother & Child Reunion, Duncan, and Me and Julia Down by the School yard.
This is a good album. Really great songwriting and solid instrumentals. I liked this more than Graceland. Favorites were Duncan, Run that Body Down, Me And Julio Down By The Schoolyard, Papa Hobo, and Paranoia Blues.
This is a regular on our turntable, so, yeah.
BANGER AFTER BANGER HOLY SHIT i want to take a road trip to this album
Pleasantly surprised after assuming I wouldn’t be a fan. Particularly liked track 1 - mother and child reunion and track 10 - paranoia blues. Liked the eclectic genres used and every song felt very different.
Campfire Music
Aprendi a gostar do Simon através dessa lista, já é o terceiro álbum dele que gerei aqui, e cada um estou gostando mais do que o anterior. As composições são tão harmônicas e agradáveis, uma sonoridade reminiscente de manhãs desleixadas, acompanhado de um lirismo brincalhão e instrumentalização requintada e minimalista. A voz dele é um veludo nos ouvidos, sempre. Suas melodias são infectantes e memoráveis, infinitamente apreciáveis. Este disco fica melhor a cada rodada, muito valor de replay. Existe um pequeno ecletismo aqui, o que me agrada, mas alguns dos cortes mais Folksys não me pegam cem por cento. Assim como algumas das faixas da dupla com Garfunkel não me pegam. Mas são poucos momentos que o disco me perde, ao todo, é uma escuta bem cativante. 4.5/5
Awesome
a true classic
Très belle surprise qui commence par un reggae et qui continue sur de la folk très mélodieuse.
good ig
The easy listener.
One of the greatest songwriters of all time.
Never thought that i would listen to this kind of music, but it was absolutely fine. Not my favourite, but still, enjoyed discovering classics like Me and Julio. The mood that is radiating from these songs made my day, done my cooking much enjoyable :)
he's got some blues in him, mais un peu répétitif
This album was OK not the greatest. In my opinion. I do like some of his older stuff. He is a great writer and the lyrics are always good. I guess the instrumental sound is what I don’t really enjoy.
Really enjoyed this, great writing and music composition and production with lots of variety.
Such a solid record, love how he explored all these different regional sound palettes within the context of folk
this is peak 5/5
This sweet little boy can right some folk. You hear the roots of "Graceland" in this one and overall it's not so much of a departure from his duo work you'd think Art was weighing him down. "Me & Julio" is an all time bop.
esse é bom, 4 estrelas
De la diversité dans cet album. Tout n'est pas top mais ce Paul simon est une pointure
One of the more personal Paul Simon albums I've heard. Allows the guitar playing to shine a bit more too. Imaginative songwriting over some well-crafted tunes, as expected from Simon, this felt like a mix of folk with all sorts of other musical varieties sprinkled in. Somewhat indictive of what was to come for Simon's solo career.
So incredibly safe and lacking depth, but otherwise a pleasant listen.
very mid, there's some cool melodies but I just couldn't get into it
chill af. Perfect for summer.
Kjoet
Highlights: Paranoia Blues, Papa Hobo, Peace Like a River, Run That Body Down Kind of a weird start for this exploratory journey. Not really my style musically but I like the themes of the lyrics. I'm just not used to folk, that's all. It has to be one of those "gets better after a first listen" deals. Still, I have found a great deal of nice songs on here. Not an easy listen, it's more of a sit-down situation. At some points the album feels like just a collection of little stories backed by a bare-bones musical theme.
I’d honestly prefer to listen to this kinda folk over Bob Dylan. This album was a smooth ride with some really fun songs and experimentation in between. My favourite has gotta be Me and Julio Down By the Schoolyard. Such a fun song
one of my favourites
no me gustó para nada, de las cosas más aburridas que he escuchado en mi vida, un real tough listen
oiiii FAVS (top 3): mother and child reunion, me and julio down by the schoolyard, peace like a river mençoes honrosas: duncan, run that body down, papa hobo, paranoia blues, congratulations compraria o vinil: sipá gente pior q gostei é bem chills nota final: 4/5
everything put together falls apart me and julio 6.5-7/10 თან არაა ჩემი სტილი მარა მაინც რაღაც ჰქონდა საჩემო
bit of a slower album, but nice cohesive folksy sound. top track: run that body down