Reviews (page 4 of 13)
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.
thanks!
folk rock excellence. bet paul simon is nostalgic af.
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.
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.
I'm in the camp that likes Paul Simon's ventures into different musical genres. Not quite Graceland, but great songs and songwriting nevertheless.
Good. Simple. A classic seaman’s album.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Elite level storytelling and great music go to with it. Never bored on this one, super great.
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.
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!
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.
His voice is insane. High-key better off without Garfunkel
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
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
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 😂
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.
Very pleasant listen
I found this balanced in many aspects
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
Quaint, whimsical album. Thank you Simon (not Garfunkel)
не знаю что там пол делал с гарфанкелом вместе, но он и один справляется
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
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.
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.
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
Très belle surprise qui commence par un reggae et qui continue sur de la folk très mélodieuse.
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 :)
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
esse é bom, 4 estrelas
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.
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
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
Luv
Excellent album. Some great guitar work too. Favorite track Armistice Day
Nice tunes, relaxing, thx
This is a grab bag of styles and influences- blues, ska, jazz and folk but all formed into shape through great songwriting. Each song is a like a short story full of rich characters. Great lyrics and unerring sense of melody throughout
The political discontent feels real today
It's fine. I like some of the more jazzy vibes to it.
i’ll have to listen again, but i enjoyed some
You can hear him start to branch out from Simon & Garfunkel here, with a wider range of influences. I particularly liked 'Peace Like a River' which I had never heard before
I’d always thought of Paul Simon mainly as one half of Simon & Garfunkel, so this was my first time really listening to his solo work. I found myself unexpectedly drawn to “Peace Like a River” and “Paranoia Blues” — especially the bluesy slide guitar, which made me appreciate him as a guitarist more than I had before.
Well, I loved the composition and production of the album but due to my preference for other genres, I feel I cannot truly understand the depth of the album but it has wonderful and succulent highs and bewitching lows.
Loved a lot of songs on this one. Makes my brain zap in a good way.
Thoughtful and beautifully rendered
Mother and child reunion - 8.1/10 Duncan - 8.6/10 Everything put together falls apart - 7.9 Run that body down - 8.9/10 Armistice day - 8.7/10 Me and Julio down by the schoolyard - 9.6/10 Peace like a river Papa hobo Hobos blues Paranoia blues Congratulations
My fuckin guy
Not someone who has ever been on my radar, but I really enjoyed this. 3.5
Muy bueno, nunca lo hubiese escuchado por voluntad propia, me sorprendió que aparezcan zampoñas y quenas en el segundo tema. Me gustó. Seguramente lo vuelva a escuchar.
Superb lyrics, music that matches, and timeless hits. What more could you ask for
Greta album. Can tell his writing was political and mentioning problems he wanted to address. Loved it!
Pleasant folk album, nice acoustic guitar and vocals
Pretty cool. I liked Me and Julio, of course, and Stephane Grappelli is always cool. I liked some of the Blues inspired songs. Solid album. Favorite Track: Me and Julio Down by the Schoolyard
Enjoyed this, would listen again for sure.
I love this classic record.
cant believe ive not heard this album before, wow peace like a river. yeah gorgeous love it
8/10
Paul Simon's work has never resonated with me. I have no idea why. Clearly the man has talent being considered one of pop's greatest composers. But he does very little for me. That being said, this album is fucking great! Beautiful and personal, it deserves the praise.
Absolute joy of an album!
Didn't know Paul Simon had a solo career after Simon and Garfunkel, was very good!
Eras el bueno, Paul?
Most enjoyable Paul Simon album I've heard! I might be converted
Melodia cativante
One of the great songwriters and singers, displaying that he didn't need Art to make his art. This is the sound of my early childhood and is steeped in sepia tones in my memory. Not every song holds up solidly through the passage of time, but the ones that do shine brightly.
Although I am a big fan of Paul Simon, I had not heard this album through. Very relaxing and the two singles show a talent at adapting world music that would only improve throughout his solo career. I’m giving it a 4 but am sure it will grow to be a 5 with further listens.
I think I'm finally starting to get the Paul Simon hype, he's pretty amazing. I think I liked the stuff with Garfunkel more, but this was a really solid album. It is kinda a lot like the Simon & Garfunkel stuff, you can tell he wrote most of that stuff I just think his material was better there. Favorites: Run That Body Down, Peace Like a River, Paranoia Blues
This one surprised me and I don't know why. I put it off for a few hours until it hit me. Amazing singer songwriter stuff, I don't know why I wasn't expecting this to be good. 9/10
The real question is who will have more solo albums on the list between Simon and Garfunkel?… smart money is on Simon.
Run that bOdy down SLAYED
I enjoyed the creative melodies and chord progressions and instrumentation throughout. Incredible guitar work, and many genres encapsulated into this folk and story-telling album. I can see myself repeat listening to several of these tracks.
Dialed back but dialed in. Blue(s). Silver spoons. Plumes of steam. Blankets of snow.
mellow and emotional and silly and fun
Lovely LP
Classic Paul Simon
Can’t believe I’ve never listened to this whole album. Not AS good as his other but still it’s Paul Simon.
141225 10:15 4 / highlights: me and julio down by the schoolyard, run that body down, mother and child reunion
Okay.
Another one I liked more than expected. Simon is a great guitarist and a poignant lyricist, albeit prone to smugness. I was initially put off by the white boy reggae style of the first track, but there are definitely worse examples. A low 4
Favorite track(s): Mother and Child Reunion, Armistice Day, Me and Julio Down by the Schoolyard
This is kind of like Bob Dylan made good music (I'm just kidding, I like Bob Dylan!!). But seriously, Paul Simon is probably one of my favorite artists ever. Me and Julio Down By the Schoolyard reminds me of my dad, in the best way possible.
One of the best songwriters ever. And he can sing.
love!
I’ve really been surprised by how hit-or-miss Simon & Garfunkel / Paul Simon albums have been for me. This one was a hit. I wasn’t fully on board with the first track, but Duncan came on and sounded familiar - I’d Shazammed it somewhere (a show or movie, maybe?), forgotten about it, but somehow I really love it. I’m a total sucker for that Andean panpipe thing it’s got going on (see also El Condor Pasa). From Duncan on, most everything was very good. I felt that the quality (or at least, my enjoyment) came close to Bridge Over Troubled Water, my favorite S&G album. I remember feeling pretty disappointed in “Graceland;” liking this made me wonder if I should revisit it. Favorites: Duncan, Run That Body Down, Armistice Day, Peace Like A River
Álbum bom da peste, com uns instrumentais sacanas de bom
This guys pretty good he should join a band or something
hobo’s blues was awesome !!! also “hobo” mention so that’s extra awesome
better than garfunkle???????????????????
Fine I’ll say it, I like Paul Simon
Cozy vibes
Very good album. Strong songs, he’s a good songwriter worth listens.
Self named lol
Really liked this album tbh
Paul Simon's 1972 self-titled album presents a confident and wonderfully diverse collection of songs. Though undeniably low-key and relaxed, the album is also fun. The record's enduring appeal rests on its standouts: "Mother and Child Reunion", an infectious track infused with reggae and recorded with Jimmy Cliff's band, and the truly sublime "Me and Julio Down by the Schoolyard", a playful, samba-rhythm pop song that epitomizes light-hearted fun. What did the "Mama and Papa" see? But the album runs deeper than its hits. I especially appreciate the blues-drenched "Peace Like a River", anchored by truly wonderful acoustic guitar work. The track "Duncan", a beautifully crafted acoustic tale of a fisherman's son traveling Canada, and the album’s beautiful, sarcastically titled closing statement, "Congratulations", are equally brilliant deep cuts. Visually, the iconic portrait photograph by Edie Baskin is a perfect complement. The masterful framing and muted colours brilliantly capture the album's intimate and reflective contents. Packed with essential songs, "Paul Simon" remains a very good to great album. Four stars. Side one 1 "Mother and Child Reunion" (5/5) 2 "Duncan" (5/5) 3 "Everything Put Together Falls Apart" (3/5) 4 "Run That Body Down" (4/5) 5 "Armistice Day" (3/5) Side two 6 "Me and Julio Down by the Schoolyard" (5/5) 7 "Peace Like a River" (5/5) 8 "Papa Hobo" (4/5) 9 "Hobo's Blues" (4/5) 10 "Paranoia Blues" (4/5) 11 "Congratulations" (5/5) Total - 47 Average - 4.27 178/1001 97/178 albums reviewed were new to me.
Unpopular opinion, but I liked this album way more than Graceland. Very emotional and heartfelt album that still manages to be fun the whole way through. Favorite Songs: Peace Like a River, Me and Julio Down by the Schoolyard
On erittäin hyvää laulamista ja kerrontaa. Kantaaottavuutta mutta maulla. Tämän ajan artisteja ei vaan ole enää.
I’ve never thought the two Pauls sounded alike before but some of this reminded me of Ram-era McCartney, That’s a compliment by the way (as is the fact that while I liked this, I prefer Graceland - how many 60s artists made their best album in the 80s? It might be just Paul Simon and Leonard Cohen.)
Overall Rating - 3.95/5 (7.91/10). Good introduction to Paul Simon's solo work.
Good folky album would listen to more paul
This was a good listen, lots of genres while not feeling like a jarring mix. Thanks Paul Only knew me and Julio before. Thought it was Julia. Clearly didn't know it very well Songs added to playlist: - Duncan - Run That Body Down - Me and Julio Down by the Schoolyard - Paranoia Blues (unreleased version)
Don't know this album off hand but love Paul Simon. Ok jumping right into a bopping reggae beat. Kinda sleepy after that, multiple songs about Hobos. But "Me and Julio Down by the Schoolyard" instantly pushes this up a star. What a banger. Would listen again. 3.9/5
Paul Simon the man that you are. Short king legend and amazing songwriter. He may not have been dunkin’ on the court, but Duncan he did, and it’s so good! “Me and Julio Down By the Schoolyard” genuinely never grows old, that light guitar and cuica combo is unmatched. Might be close to a 5 for me if it didn’t have to compete with Bridge Over Troubled Water, Bookends, and Graceland. Favorite Tracks: Mother and Child Reunion, Duncan, Armistice Day, Me and Julio Down by the Schoolyard, Congratulations
This was a great listen. I already had a couple of songs in playlists. For me, not quite a 5, but would happily listen again.
At their best, the songs on this album stand up with the best of Simon and Garfunkel's work, but at their worst they don't even approach Simon and Garfunkel's filler. Not sure what's the deal with that, since Garfunkel didn't even write the songs? I guess maybe Simon needed a quality control guy?
Paul Simon is always good, but this first solo album doesn't hold up against Simon & Garfunkel or his later solo work. Good but not great.
- O instrumental é leve e delicioso de se ouvir e um dos grandes pontos fortes do álbum na minha opinião. A flauta em Duncan é uma das coisas mais lindas que já ouvi. - A voz de Paul Simon é extremamente confortável de se ouvir. Tem um tipo de profundidade pela rouquidão que, atrelado a maciez da sua voz, faz com quê mesmo com o menor dos instrumentais, a música soe perfeita. Realmente, quem tem gogô sustenta. - Mesmo em um estilo como folk, Paul viajou pelos diferentes tipos de sonoridades. Enquanto antes sentia estar sentada a uma fogueira calmamente ouvindo ao violão, o impacto que tive ao estar ouvindo e do nada sentir que entrei em um saloon antigo quando Hobo's Blues começou foi um testamento a sua habilidade musical. Faixa Favorita: Duncan
Really liked the upbeat bluesy folk. Haven’t heard much of Paul Simon’s stuff outside Simon and Garfunkel.
This was nice! A more intimate entry with hints at Paul's fondness for world music that would manifest more strongly later. This feels like a "close" album.
Such a delightful songwriter. Hard to have a bad time with him. 8/10
I quite enjoyed this. Quite a few different styles used with some quite catchy tunes and lyrics
Nice
Good interesting songs
Some classics.
Melancólico
Yes waiter I would like some Simon and Garfunkel, hold the Garfunkel
A great album by one of the best song writers ever. This was fun to listen to and who doesn't enjoy Julio down by the school yard!
Добротный, приятный альбом со спокойной, доброй музыкой. 7 из 10.
Álbum muito agradável. Arranjos e vocais no ponto! QoA Adonis New.
Man kan aldri slå helt feil med Paul Simon, det gjør man ikke her heller! Et knallgodt album med veldig kul produksjon. Han har skrevet bedre låter andre steder så derfor når den ikke helt opp til femmeren.
Calming
Paul Simon's first record following the break-up of Simon & Garfunkel was definitive proof on who the genius behind the popular 60s duo was. Where Garfunkel had to rely on other people's hits to remain relevant as a solo artist [relevance that faded very quickly despite initial success], Simon continued to craft sensitive and eclectic folk/pop songs that would bring much critical and commercial success throughout the 1970s. His self-titled 1972 effort is the first of his epic solo run, and through classic hits such as 'Mother and Son Reunion', 'Me and Julio Down By the Schoolyard' and 'Duncan', Simon essentially picked up where he left off at the end of Simon & Garfunkel, albeit with greater emphasis on his unique musicianship. Alongside Cat Stevens, Joni Mitchell, Neil Young and James Taylor, Paul Simon was one of the prominent voices in folk music at the turn of the 1970s, and while he was no longer crafting those sweet harmonies with Art Garfunkel, what replaced it was a well-rounded musician really coming into his own as a songwriter, and his career continued to prosper into the 1980s, culminating in the worldly masterpieces 'Graceland' and 'The Rhythm of the Saints'. But his solo hot streak started here, and it works as an effective 'soft reboot' for Simon. Best songs: Mother and Child Reunion, Duncan, Armistice Day, Me and Julio Down by the Schoolyard
I actually really liked this one. Very folksy, easy to listen to. It's clear that this album has inspired a lot of songs I've heard. Glad it was recommended.
I liked it
Graceland is better but this is good
Very cool. I like the international influences. 4/5 Highlights: Mother and Child Reunion Duncan Paranoia Blues
Paul Simon's self-titled album, Paul Simon, is a hodge podge of styles. It includes some world music on "Mother and Child Reunion" which points the way to Graceland, released 14 years later. It also includes the pop folk of "Me and Julio Down by the Schoolyard" which is closer to the direction Paul Simon took his music for the next 14 years. The rest of the album is fine. However, none of the other songs tickle my fancy.
I enjoyed listening to the album. It's very relaxing and I appreciated the samba and blues contaminations
A really nice album with lots of different instruments like the violin, bassoon and even the flute. All these combined with some great fingerpicking I can only dream to be able to play.
I love that the demo versions were included. Those were the highlights of the album. Also I love the classic: Me and Julio Down by the Schoolyard!!
I definitely have some nostalgic appreciation for Paul Simon - I don't remember if we had this album (I didn't recognize anything other than the hits) - so I was predisposed to rate this one well, but actually listening to a whole album was great. I assume we'll get Graceland too and I'm looking forward to it
Different to what I expected. High highs and some forgettable bits, but overall very good.
How is it that Paul Simon is somehow underrated in terms of the all time great songwriters? Paul’s first post duo album is a solid, if not great record. It has one of his best songs in Me And Julio Down By The Schoolyard, which is almost certainly his catchiest. It’s the clear highlight on an album that doesn’t have a bad track. I’d rate a couple of other albums in his discography higher (certainly Graceland, an easy top five album of the 80s for me), but this album is a gift.
A mishmash of ideas, a few standout tracks like "Mother & Child Reunion" and "Me And Julio Down By The Schoolyard" lift this up from an average album, but overall its an easy way to pass 40 odd minutes
Really enjoyable easy listening album. Guitar work in particular was brilliant. Really looking forward to a second listen
yuh
Excellent
Until a few songs in, it didn't click for me that he was the Paul Simon from Simon & Garfunkel. Realized it after thinking his voice sounded really familiar. As expected, he's got a great voice. The songs are mostly good. Duncan had some great guitar work. Run That Body Down was really nice. Me And Julio Down By The Schoolyard was a lot of fun. As was Peace Like A River. Hobo's Blues had a good harmonica and guitar combo going, and the guitar work continued nicely in Paranoia Blues. Overall a good time. Best song: Duncan
- Really nice, easy-going melodic tunes that are about more complicated emotions and human experiences, which is definitely my jam. - I’d only ever heard Me and Julio from this album, somehow, but I think I’ll listen to it a lot more, though, I will probably skip a couple tracks.
Very good.
Good stuff
What a fantastic album that start with the reggae influenced Mother and Chile Reunion. It a melting pot of Folk, Reggae, Soul, Jazz and Pop. Beautifully structured with songwriting you would expect from one of the better songwriters out there. In my opinion it opens and finishes with the 2 best tracks. Congratulations is just perfect. I think I would like to own this record. 4.5 Stars
This album was definitely better than Heart and Bone, but after Papa Hobo it starts to get a little boring. Run That Body Down, Me and Julio, and Peace Like a River were the highlights for me. I was about to give it three stars, but I’m giving it one more because I’m a sucker for well placed whistle solos.
I did not realize Paul Simon was so world influenced from his initial debut album. Really beautiful and interesting songs and arrangements. Sorry Garfunkel.
Solid album. Enjoyed most of it. Standout songs: Duncan Me and Julio Down by the Schoolyard Peace like a river
Me and Juliooooooo, absolute banger. A few more highlights during the album, it loses my interest a bit in the end.
Paul Simon is always great. Enjoyed this one.
Lovely album, knew one song but really enjoyed the rest, all had a similar feel but different vibe by the song. Not a perfect album as I had moments where I slipped away, but otherwise really enjoyed most songs on the album.
Before going through these albums I had heard about but never really listened to Simon and/or Garfunkwl. This is now my second Paul Simon album and I have also listened through a Simon and Garfunkel album. This album isn't as good as Graceland but better than Parsley, Sage, Rosemary And Thyme, the Simon and Garfunkel album I have gotten so far. While I don't love all the songs the album as a whole is great to listen through and many of them I want to go back and listen to again.
Another album where the only track I knew was because Scott Klopfenstein (ex member of ska band Reel Big Fish) covers it on his Twitch livestreams (Me and Julio Down By The Schoolyard). If I had a nickel for every time that's happened blah, blah, blah... I really enjoyed this album. It was another where I played it through once, then immediately looped round and started again. I even, and this is almost unheard of, voluntarily listened to the bonus tracks. My favourite tracks were Me and Julio, Everything Put Together Falls Apart, Hobo's Blues and Paranoia Blues. I'm not sure why the guy chose to put two songs called [blank] Blues on his album, and sequence them one after the other, but it shows a certain level of confidence. My only negatives were that I swear he slips slightly into a fake Jamaican accent briefly on Mother and Child Reunion - just because it's reggae tinged Paul, doesn't mean you should be mimicking the accent - and a personal dislike of the flute on Duncan. I did genuinely really enjoy this album though. I think this would be another 3.5 in a world of half stars (I think there's better Paul Simon to come), but I'm rounding up: 4/5
This was such a good album. Very similar in some ways to McCartney, and Plastic Ono Band - these first solo albums after a very historic group. So cool to see for each of these the direction they went in.
I really like Paul Simon. Just beautiful song writing all around. Need me his jacket.
Some nice tunes on this. Nothing that’ll end the world, but just… nice stuff. It’s a nice album. Well done Paul, you’re out on your solo career. Nice. 4.0/5.0 Best Song: Peace Like A River
I already know and love multiple songs on this album so it was great to listen to the whole thing.
Simon and Garfunkel getting rid of the Garfunkel was one of the greatest upgrades in the history of music
Gick in med väldigt höga förväntningar. Älskar me and julio..sen tidigare. Tror nog jag blev lite besviken. Inte att det är dåligt, på något sätt..mer än att det inte kändes "oumph". Jag väljer dock att fria framför att fälla, så det blir en fyra. Rätt säker på att skivan skulle växa till sig med ännu flera lyssningar. Det är ett sound jag gillar. Den klassiska gitarren och rösten är mycket behaglig.
Jäkla fin skiva detta, verkligen kvalitet rakt igenom och några riktiga höjdpunkter i Mother and child reunion (kul och riktigt bra med reggaen), Duncan, Run that body down och förstås Me and Julio. Lite svagare mot slutet, men ändå en klar fyra.
a bit uneven but beloved
Fav: Peace Like A River Least Fav: Duncan Art has Bright Eyes but with this album alone I’m thinking Paul Simon > Art Garfunkel
Is this violin … Grapelli? It IS Grapelli! Upped from 3 to 4 stars.
muuuuy chulas las canciones como que parecen de distinto estilo aunque sea del mismo, tipo folk pop y rock. me ha transmitido muy buen rollo.
folk rock, j'adore (chill)
4.5 A perfect late spring album imo
Lovely music. Definitely a diversion from the "typical" Simon & Garfunkel style. There are more inspirations from other genres, and the guitar and vocals are more pronounced.
Me and Julio Down by the Schoolyard is like a Top 10 song of all time. The rest of the album is solid too
I don’t think we’ll get the triple title treat today. Unless Paulie blows me away here with a new track called “Paul Simon” I think we’re going to have to settle at self-titled. I might as well jump off a bridge. Gee I sure hope there’s no troubled water down there. Paul’s got his coat on, and I’m ready for some chilly folk ballads that almost assuredly mention New York City every second bar. Hey Singer man, I’m friggin’ listenin’ respectfully ovah here in order to attempt to gain an understanding of your craft! Oh!! Mother and Child Reunion - Have I clicked on the wrong thing? Is Paul Simon doing a Patois over a watered down WHITE reggae track? Sandals Jamaica type beat. Dread and Apathy now colour my afternoon. Duncan - The ballad of the kangaroo mascot of children’s sugar bomb snack treat, Dunkaroos. He shouldn’t have had to endure that in the audition. ***MARITIMES MENTIONED*** SWEET JESUS FRIG BOY. What a turnaround. Every day I thank the lord for my fingers too. Gives me two middle ones that I can use to greet every Upper Canadian gentrifier in the maritimes right now. Everything Put Together Falls Apart - I can always hear the heartbreak of those who have had their Lego set taken apart by their mom when they weren’t done. So what company is coming over, do you think this wookie looks finished?? It’s hard being 6. It’s even harder being 29. The unfinished wookie is a dead end job and the mom is increasing cost of living and dependence on AI. Run That Body Down - To steal a phrase from the John Prine Spotify bio, I believe Paul Simon is one of my favourite “phrase turners” in music history. Just has such a fascinating way with words. You can see that while I enjoy it, I don’t take much inspiration from the man. Armistice Day - that’s all he wanted to say. Then? Bongos. Classic 70’s white guy. Oh wait he’s saying more. Paul Simon would’ve been a star in a political science class. The riffs sort of go insane on this track. Me and Julio Down by the Schoolyard - Mama Pyjama said that? Man, he puts some spice on that “Julio.” Somebody has been practicing their accent. This is a famous song, if you didn’t know. I’d like to know the crossover demographic of people who read my reviews (accidental clickers) and people who don’t know this song (Cold War holdouts.) that’s got to be Richard population. Peace Like a River - Peace River? I mean it’s Alberta so I’m not as excited as I was about the maritimes, but we’re still Canada adjacent. And of course, that’s what we need in these times. Fervent nationalism. It’s got us this far. Papa Hobo - The award, for song title most evocative of a leader of a homeless encampment who is gritty with street experience, but also sage and a resource for the community he serves, in music history goes to… PAPA HOBO BY PAUL SIMON. YOU DID IT YOU SON OF A BITCH. I got kicked off the bus for getting too excited about this. Soaking in some Detroit perfume of my own. Hobo’s Blues - BACK TO BACK HOBO TRACKS? Hell yeah. Again, I’m a pretty progressive guy, but going from hobo to “unhoused person” was a devastating blow to our beautiful language. Just say HOBO out loud a couple times. Try not to have a good time. Don’t worry, you can’t summon one. That usually takes years of systemic poverty brought on by insatiable corporations inflicting needless cost of living increases due to an unwillingness to plateau the highest level incomes in order to reinvest into liveable communities for all. Anyway, uhhh this is a fun track. Paranoia Blues - Oh no. We did white guy reggae. What’s a little white blues amongst friends. Usually enough to terminate that friendship. Congratulations - I barely understand what this word is anymore. I’ve seen so much drag race, I forget if it’s this or “Condragulations.” The microplastics are doing their job. Great work, regulatory bodies. Besides a horrible, gentrified reggae opener that was custom built for movie montages in the 80s, this was great. I was deeply worried it would continue in that same vein, but we were able to salvage a really fun singer-songwriter record. If it’s not heavy or terrifying, this is often what I want my music to sound like. Not the music I make. That doesn’t exist. Newsflash! Guy with a bunch of negative opinions about a subject is talentless in said subject! Shocking I know. Anyway. This was good. Get me some of that Detroit perfume, I’ve got a consultation sit down with Papa Hobo. 4 HIGHLIGHTS: Duncan, Run that Body Down, Armistice Day, Me and Julio Down by The Schoolyard
A good album. Some upbeat songs mixed with some folk, and I think it works, maybe better than I think his pure folk and pure "world music" albums work. Still nothing that blows me away, but it is very good.
Out of the gate, Paul Simon is set to prove that his songwriting couldn’t be contained by the folk scene and pop success he had with Art Garfunkel. It’s got all the gorgeous restraint we’re used to from their production, but starting to explore other styles and avenues. But it’s the folksier tunes that are kind of incredible, informing the quiet indie singer-songwriters of the 90s and 2000s that make this shine. Not every song is a winner but it’s a deeply strong solo debut and a killer set of songs.
Gostei muito!
Highly listenable and mostly likable. Also, undeniably strong and well executed -- there are lots of grace notes with instrumentation choices). But one can ever escape the sense with Simon that this is only slightly elevated musically, lyrically or artistically than other pop songs on the, you know, radio. (Kelefa Sanneh would likely disagree but one believes Simon is much closer to James Taylor and/or Dan Fogelberg than he is to Bob Dylan.) This record excels in a non-threatening normie sort of way, and seems more observational and detached (even slightly contrived in a "let's make music" sort of way) than being a totally driven, urgent or "this record had to be made" sort of record. Put another way, it's more clever than intelligent, more glib/catchy than deep/resonant. While he often settles for cuteness ("Hobo's Blues" e.g.), he clearly wants to be taken more seriously than he was when in one's view it seems he’s been appreciated and compensated more or less in line with his talent and the merits of his output.
Favorite Track: Me and Julio Down By The Schoolyard
Another solid entry from Paul Simon. He brings a beautiful complexity that in the surface seems simple.
Funny, I missed the Art Garfunkel solo albums.
I really enjoy Simon and Garfunkel, Paul Simon solo is a lot of hot or miss for me. I'm between a 3 or 4 rating for this album. Is got some amazing high points, but as a whole album listen it loses me here and there. It's still a great album overall though.
i loved this so much more than graceland 💚 fave songs; duncan me and julio down by the schoolyard peace like a river 4.7/5 a 4 here for now, i feel like i need more time with this one to let it sink in to a 5. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Got a little on the commercial side for my taste but have come to appreciate it more over the yests
It's alrighty. The Spotify shuffle after this was amazing
its no graceland but its still good
It's a Paul Simon album. A good one. For the people that are into this kind of music it has to be amazing. For me who doesn't - it's great.
Some lovely stuff here. For one thing, I really appreciated his gentle voice. Some lovely melodies and arrangements, presenting interesting stories. Lots of variety; mostly, good. I put this on quite late in the evening, and gave in to the peaceful, relaxed, but entertaining, vibe.
I am a fan of Paul Simon, but had never listened to this album before. I liked the simpler, more pared down version of his musical style. This was only his second album, so it seems that his music became more experimental later in his career. My most-enjoyed songs were Mother and Child Reunion, Duncan, and Run That Body Down. 8/10.
Absolutely adored this. Massive Simon and Garfunkel fan and rate Graceland as one of the greatest albums ever but never got around to listening to this one for some reason! (apart from Me and Julio of course.) More fool me for taking this long! What a delight top to bottom. Some really fun, groovy moments I couldn't help boogying around to punctuated by some gorgeous, sweet and earnest folk. Simon's quirky, absurdist and frank lyricism shines through. He has this perfect knack of making the mundane and ugly seem so novel, humorous and beautiful.
I really enjoyed this album. Paul simon really knows his stuff. 8/10
Love the Paul Simon
Great songs for
Listened to about half
A great seminal song writer and musician. Good stuff
I prefer this to Graceland. Me And Julio Down By The Schoolyard is a fun song. The rest of the album is decent enough that I'd just about give it a four, but it's very much at the low end of that score.
1/2 update - this one has grown on me.
Previously rated: Hearts And Bones (3/5) *************************** A very average album to my ears, but a couple of songs bump it up to 4/5. Mother and Child Reunion and especially Me and Julio Down By the Schoolyard give it a big boost.
Pretty good, nice lyrics, feels like dad music tho
I am not the biggest fan of folky, singer-songwriter stuff, but this is an exception; I thought this great. Simon is very talented at both the songwriting AND the singing parts (looking at you, Bobby Dylan). A couple of meh tracks keep it from a 5, but I've already added more Paul Simon stuff to my listening list. Solid 4/5 for Mr Simon!
8/10 Great album. Deserves to be on the list. Graceland is better but this was super enjoyable and I'm glad I listened.
Very cool 25/30 L
Awesome love folk love Simeon some songs are skips but the style is awesome the drums and percussion sound like stuff I have never heard before and Paul Simeon is a great songwriter
Wasn’t too familiar with Paul Simon’s music other than Me and Julio Down by the Schoolyard. Listening to this album in Hi-Res at breakfast was quite the enjoyable experience. Chill vibes with well mixed audio.
Classic easy listening album
Loved it, perfect album to enjoy a nice sunny day or when youre looking for something mellow yet joyful. Paul brought some heat with his experimentation with different genres. The flute in Duncan goes fucking hard...
I can't objectively rate Paul Simon because I love his music too much. I could rate this a 5 but I will give it a 4 as the "lesser" tracks here do not stand up like the "lesser" tracks on some of his other albums.
This album is quite lovely, and Paul Simon’s voice is something straight from heaven. Me & Julio is such a good song, and may even be one of my favourites of Paul Simon. Perhaps if I’d have heard this before hearing Graceland, I’d have rated it higher. But Graceland is actual perfection, and this self titled album doesn’t quite reach that same height for me. It’s still beautiful though.
Hard to go wrong with Paul Simon. Not my go to listen but I liked this album.
ooh i love paul simon. Run that Body Down and Mother and Child Reunion are so underrated
I like Paul Simon’s style of songs, pretty easy listening but some sneakily sophisticated twists hidden. ‘Motherboard and Child’ and ‘Me and Julio’ are the big songs here, but there are a few nicies among the fillers as well. 4/5
Simon’s first album post Simon & Garfunkel is a mostly laid back folk rock affair. He is a master of knowing how to use his vocal abilities in their best fashion. He’s also an incredible song writer. Mother Child Reunion and Me & Julio are standouts not only in style and energy her but as great entries in his storied songbook.
Paul Simon’s self titled album is melodic and soothing, like a hug from an old friend you didn’t realise you needed.
This album always follows by effortlessly. My second favourite solo Paul Simon. Strong 4
First decent album in my 1001 albums listen. Great songwriting, going from catchy to melancholy, sometimes at once. Likely to be revisited
Very pleasant listen. I love Paul Simon’s voice. I only knew one song going in (Me and Julio Down By the Schoolyard).
like this album
Nisam znala da You can call me Al singer ima OVAKVE BANGERE. Bas je ono sitting in the backseat of my car, with my guitar vibes. Jako lijep glas i stvarno mi se svaka pjesma svidjela s albuma, a iz prvog slušanja posebno “duncan”, “Run that body down” i “Peace like a River”.
This was very good - really enjoyed it. I had no idea Mother and Child Reunion was Paul Simon, which I don’t know if that says a lot about his ability to be chameleonic or just imitative.
Eclectic mis of ballad, country and blues.
Um dos melhores momentos dele solo
So this is the king of rock and roll eh?
i dont love paul simon but i do love that me and julio down by the schoolyard is in the royal tenenbaums ... kinda true that this guy was the original sauced up white boy eh ? opening the album with a reggae song.. come on... anyways i loveee the flutes on Duncan... this album is awesome hahaha.
I just found out that this is the Simon from Simon and Garfunkel. Not the music I would listen to on a daily basis but good music nonetheless.
paul simon is a master of combining unusual chord progressions with strong melodic sense and songwriting. it's fair to say that he has earned his spot as one of the most renowned lyricists in Western popular music. 8.5/10
I feel like I still don't fully appreciate Paul's work as much as it deserves yet. Maybe it's because I've been listening to so much music idk. Wait I just listened through it again and enjoyed it a lot more. Ignore my original statement. I still need to spend more time with it though. Anyways, there are a number of songs that jump out at me that I do love. Besides Julio, I really enjoyed Run that Body Down, Duncan, and Peace Like a River (crazy harmonies). Really strong songwriting and really impressive playing. I'm feeling a 4 for now.
This one is pretty chill. My favorite tracks were Everything Put Together Falls Apart, Me & Julio Down by the Schoolyard, and Paranoia Blues.
Fun seeing him branch out from his stuff with Garfunkel. Not as complete as Graceland but I'll definitely be coming back to it.
An enjoyable primarily acoustic folk experience with varied stylings throughout. Me & Julio is the personal pick here.
Good. Julio is a great song. Since I’m not a lyrics person I wonder if a lot of this album goes over my head.
Highlights Peace Like a River and Mother and Child Reunion
I like this a lot more than Graceland, I think because its quite similar to the Simon and Garfunkel stuff I like, and there's also some quite different stuff, he must've took inspiration from a lot of genres, like the first one which is reggae-esque. Obviously an amazing singer and writer, he's the one who's voice is most recognisable in Simon and Garfunkel in my opinion. Only real downside is that some of the instrumentals feel a bit too sparse for me, maybe he had a deadline or something and couldn't record more instruments. Favourite songs: Mother and Child reunion, Duncan, run that body down, me and Julio down by the schoolyard, Papa Hobo, Hobo's blues, congratulations. Overall around 7/10
Un muy buen disco de folk. Si algunas de las canciones de la segunda mitad estuviesen al nivel de las primeras sería perfecto. De este álbum destacan sobre todo sus melodías y las letras de Paul Simon, que siempre han sido notables. 4/5
Love how innovative this is for an early folk album from Paul, he does folk great but there’s already ideas pushing through here that make up something bigger especially with the organ and melodies in songs like the first one and run that body down (the latter without the organ but with a very cool jazzy feel). The hit single off this sounds like something that would come out of graceland which is what i mean by his more experimental (in a poppy way) ideas coming through. His guitar playing is great as well, just a great folk album in general, wasn’t as big a fan of the more country orientated songs like papa hobo or paranoia blues as much though. Favourites: mother and child reunion, Duncan, Everything put together falls apart, Run that body down, Me and Julio and peace like a river (and the instrumental). Overall, 7/10.
One of my faves by PS with two early hits on it.
Godt album, men litt smør på flesk å få dette dagen etter S&G..
Paul Simon is a master of his craft and one of the best singer/songwriters to ever come out of the states. This record is a global sampling of genres aggregated into a light and technical composed platter of sound. It’s wonderful.
When it’s an album from the early 70s I know that I’ll like it.
Das Album Paul Simon wurde 1971 in mehreren Studios aufgenommen, darunter die Bearsville Studios in Woodstock, A&R Studios in New York sowie einige Sessions in San Francisco. Es ist das erste Soloalbum des US-amerikanischen Musikers Paul Simon nach der Trennung von Simon & Garfunkel. Das Werk bewegt sich stilistisch im Bereich Folk-Rock und integriert dabei Elemente aus Latin, Reggae und Jazz. Die musikalische Ausrichtung ist zurückhaltend arrangiert und legt den Fokus auf akustische Instrumentierung und lyrische Inhalte. Besonders bekannt wurden die Titel „Mother and Child Reunion“ und „Me and Julio Down by the Schoolyard“, die sich sowohl durch eingängige Melodien als auch durch rhythmische Vielfalt auszeichnen. Weitere Stücke wie „Duncan“ oder „Peace Like a River“ zeigen Paul Simons Interesse an erzählerischen Songstrukturen. Das Album dokumentiert eine Phase künstlerischer Neuorientierung. Es verzichtet auf opulente Produktion und vermittelt einen persönlichen, introspektiven Zugang zur Songkunst. In der Rückschau erscheint es als ein ruhiger, aber bewusster Schritt in eine eigenständige musikalische Identität.
I mean cmon, it’s Paul Simon, of course it’s gonna be good. Thoroughly enjoyed listening to this album today.
I just bloody love Paul Simon. Don’t even know why, I just do.
I had only heard the two singles on this album, and liked them alright…but I really liked the rest of the album even more. No surprises here…I will definitely be listening to this again. 4 stars!
A little Bob Dillon-esque but I kinda vibe with it
According to the history of "The Sound of Silence" podcast episode I recently listened to, Paul Simon is kind of a huge jerk, so I issue this rating with some reluctance.
Enjoyable listen throughout
Noah Kahan gets four stars.
If only Paul McCartney had lived, then we wouldn't have needed Paul Simon.
Fairly good songs in this album. Don't think I've listened to any of them before, at least not actively. 'Me and Julio Down by the Schoolyard' sounded familiar and was brilliant. 'Paranoia Blues' was surprisingly good.
4.5 Really beautiful and funky, I think it will continue to grow on me. Super interesting instrumentally and lyrically
capooooooo
absolutely Killer set of arrangements on here...the amount this record constantly reset my attention by throwing a great instrumental idea out there is kinda staggering. its a great set of songs too..the s&g material ive heard tends more towards Elemental and Eternal, where i think simon took the breakup as a chance to get a bit more personal and down to earth...him namedropping himself on the very moving run that body down (mayb my fave on the record) is a rly striking moment. even theoretically slighter songs have their charms, like papa hobo being followed by a fun instrumental companion. a great companion to the extremely long, extremely humid walk i just got back home from.
Very good
It's Paul Simon so you know what you're getting. The songs I really like are already on the GH so I wouldn't need to own this record. They're aren' t any deep tracks that I LOVED. It is still a quality record though.
Jedna z moich ulubionych piosenek jest na tej płycie. Ale całość ma trochę zbyt wiele podobnych do siebie ballad, abym dała 5/5. Uwielbiam Paula Simona, jego głos i kompozycje, ale nie bez powodu najlepszym kawałkiem jest ten bardziej żwawy. 8/10
I’m generally not too fond of Simon’s solo work, but this is probably his best. Me and Julio Down by the Schoolyard is undeniably a hit, so I’ll be more generous than I normally would. Overalll, an enjoyable album that drags at times.
this sounded both joy- and thoughtful
4/5
Do you think Paul ever went through a punk phase?
Really nice album. Lots of great story telling and what seems like making up the songs on the spot but hey it's Paul Simon so in sure he took his time constructing the album. Maybe Julio helped him down by the school yard
Solid - Me and Julio is an all time great
Good album. A bit bluesy, a bit folky, a bit of everything to be honest.
Lots of "buried treasure" to be found on this short record. A couple of new ones to me are "Duncan" and "Paranoia Blues". I prefer the demo versions, which I assume weren't on the original album.
Not a huge Paul Simon fan, but this was a good listen.
Diverse influences and some classic tunes
Catchy
Better than Coldplay
I love me some Paul Simon, and this is a pretty fun album.
I like this
Nothing more magical than a Paul Simon album. The man knew how to right the softies that gave you a hardie
Reggae-country-soul? Samtidig litt simon and garfunkel vibes. Holy shit det er paul simon fra simon and garfunkel goddamn
Альбом не нашла, но когда-то слушала. Примерно знаю его.
Good but not his best
I think while this is missing a bit of what made his later work so great, there's still a unique charm and personality that makes this a great listen still to this day. Mostly all of these songs are really great
Good album. I had not heard it before, and only knew a few of the songs going in, so was glad to have been introduced to more of his work. Would listen again.
first paul simon solo album, unsurprisingly it’s rlly damn good lol
Enjoyable folky honky tonk
Banger, easy 4, not many notes. Wasn’t listening super closely though and was walking around my beautiful neighborhood having a wonderful day so hard to be objective
🥺
It's an actual fun listening experience! The texts are more or less basic, but the instrumental and techniques... Feels like Paul Simon wanted to mix up all the inspiration he got in the streets and mashed it up into an album. A quite positive surprise!
5 (or 6?)/1001. I used to own two LP copies of this one, the other one I probably got either from my mom or sister, and the other I bought because I remembered how good this was, not remembering I already owned it. For me this is an album one can put on any time there is a moment not to know what to play. It sounds really good on the background, but perhaps now giving a dedicated listen reveals a bit of inconsistency or I don't know what, something missing?. The songs are strong and musicians great, and I still love it. There are some albums between this and Graceland which I've never heard (not to mention stuff after that one), so perhaps I will dig into those at some point.
Bright energy, lots of positivity and fortitude. A mainly relaxing listen
Gave Graceland such a low score because he appropriated South African music but in its own right, it's a very solid album and I do regret rating it that way. Only had that thought after listening to this record, shows so much craft and artistry.
Dad- 7 Mom- 9.5 Mike- NA Lori- 7 Michael- 9 Miles- 7 Cole- 3 Avg- 7.08
Started off absolutely five stars and maybe dropped a little by the end, but full of good stuff. Great writing, great playing, amazing vocals.
Favorite songs: Me and Julio Down by the Schoolyard, Duncan, Paranoia Blues, Peace Like a River Least favorite songs: Everything Put Together Falls Apart 4/5