Reviews (page 5 of 14)
Luv
3/5 - More entertaining than expected, realizing that I really miss songs that tell stories. Country with a dash of something else. Don't see myself re-listening, but I have no regrets.
Excellent album. Some great guitar work too. Favorite track Armistice Day
Nice tunes, relaxing, thx
3.5 - love me and julio bc its so nostalgic but once again just not music id listen to over and over again but still appreciate it
what a delightful album :) beautiful sounds, catchy melodies & meaningful lyrics the talent on display here is unbelievable
Apart from mother and child reunion ( which I used to think was someone else) this album is utter drivel, are the songs rejects from S&G albums. Now I know why I find Graceland so offensive on the ears
Incredibly good album. So many good songs. Such good music. So easy to listen to. Stands the test of time.
meh
One of my favorite Paul Simon albums!
Paul Simon always brings a sense of calm. It was great listening on a winter day. I knew only two songs before hand and noon of the rest really grabbed me, but I definitely didn't regret this listen.
Also never heard of him before It feels like nothing bind blowing to me honestly, it’s not bad tho I like the instruments in armistice day the guitar ahh It’s still a vibe tho lol Also me and julio down by the schoolyard I like fun
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
Solid album I hadn’t heard in years (but only listened to in entirety probably once). Bunch of popular tunes though….
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
Simon has a good voice, and the songwriting is fine enough (although side 2 makes me question that statement). But why would ever listen to this over something like Nick Drake's Pink Moon or Neil Young's After the Gold Rush? Redundancy is what I'm getting from Paul Simon. Also, that album cover pisses me off. He looks way too goofy to also be looking that smug.
Enjoyable but not super memorable
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.
Graceland better but enjoyed nonetheless.
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.
Beautiful flute sound Live the mixing of genres done very seamlessly Great sound
Never really clicked with Paul Simon. Maybe things he was doing at the time were breaking new ground but it’s always left me flat. Okay album but was kinda waiting for it to be over
gut ruhig schön manche lyrics zu weird eher so gedicht vortragen vibes
Loved a lot of songs on this one. Makes my brain zap in a good way.
very folky very fall vibes. not a favorite but enjoyed listening
Thoughtful and beautifully rendered
Never listened to this as a single album before. Though I know many of the big hitters of course.
Je m'attendais à une bouse d'un mec avec un ego surdimensionné et finalement c'était pas si mal
I love Simon's songwriting, sounds beautiful and effortless
It's OK but not something I would choose to listen. I did add Me and Julio... to my 1972 playlist, as it is a catchy tune. I'll likely rate this 2 stars.
It's everything you'd expect from a Paul Simon album. Unfortunately, nothing really hooked me, hence two stars.
It feels like an album that 40 year old me is gonna absolute love, I am 20. 7/10
nie moj klimat
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
favorite - everything put together fall apart 6/10
Very whimsical listen. Super chill to listen!
Not someone who has ever been on my radar, but I really enjoyed this. 3.5
Benign, pleasant, uncontroversial
Ugh, Paul Simon is just so... flaccid. Just another folk album, nothing to see here.
Favourite Songs: Duncan Peace Like A River Hobo's Blues Paranoia Blues
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.
Well. Me and Julio down by the school yard always reminds me of Wes Anderson films and just happy summer days. Great voice, easy to listen to on a New Year’s Day 1
I really enjoyed this and I think it'll be a good CD to throw in my car for a summer roadtrip :-)
It was fun!
Nothing gets the new years eve party going like Paul Simon!!!! This album is fine, but I have never really cared much for his solo work. Nothing was bad but a lot of it was bland. Mid 3.
A sweet voice, genius lyricism and the best acoustic guitar I've ever heard. How can it get better?
peak
Some good tracks on here and some forgettable ones, about half and half. Favorite tracks- “Mother and Child Reunion” “Me and Julio Down By The Schoolyard” “Paranoia Blues”
It's Paul Simon... not much more or less. pleasant but not extremly engaging album.
Boring and not my vibe
Superb lyrics, music that matches, and timeless hits. What more could you ask for
Meh
Pretty joce folk stuff on here, some catchy tunes but nothing special
Greta album. Can tell his writing was political and mentioning problems he wanted to address. Loved it!
"Me and Julio Down By the Schoolyard" is a classic, but I can't get into Paul Simon or Simon & Garfunkel in general. When you have two songs with the word "hobo" in the title, that's a sign this won't be my thing. Rounding up to 3 for "Me and Julio."
Pleasant folk album, nice acoustic guitar and vocals
Not my favorite genre, but still had a couple of songs that I enjoyed. Overall an average album, but definitely on the higher side of a 3.
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
Chill vibes Fave track: Me and Julio down by the Schoolyard
Pleasant enough. 3/5
Kind of songs I either want to listen to at a campfire or driving through woods on a late summers evening.
Not really a fan of country and this didn’t help at all. Mid
Really cool fusion of blues, funk, and rock. Standouts are Mother and Child Reunion, everything put together falls apart, armastice day, and peace like a river. Really good album 8.5/10
Every once in a while, I find myself disappearing down a Paul Simon rabbit hole. Much as I enjoy a bit of Simon & Garfunkel, it's Simon's solo work that really shines for me. With this record, he seemed to actively step away from that whimsical, folksy sound he'd honed with Garfunkel - a bold move when you consider how enormously successful that formula had been, but he absolutely nailed it. A beautiful, plush production that suits his voice fantastically, and some masterful songwriting - this is a great record.
I can put my hand on my heart and say I have NEVER heard this album and I only recognise one song, which seems to surprise me. That said I enjoyed it. It didn't blow me away but it was... nice... and a little interesting. I will listen to it again.
i’m sure this album was a banger when it was released, but it’s not my cup of tea i fear 💔💔
Nothing too impressive, I enjoy the instrumentals of the songs but I don’t think I’d listen to the album or songs again. I just listened to ‘paranoia blues’ and I really enjoyed that song and the production of it. Overall, this album didn’t wow me. I probably wouldn’t listen to it again but it was nice to experience something I’ve never heard before.
Synes det lyder virkelig velproduceret, en del sange jeg kan lide, men jeg savner Garfunkel på nogen af de mere simple numre og det hele er bare lige cutesy nok endnu. Man kan godt høre Graceland er på vej
De bedste numre var vildt gode, de dårligste numre var lidt fesne
Snoozefest
Mid, dec' 25, guitar mostly nothing special, could understand if this is someone's favorite though
Enjoyed this, would listen again for sure.
Listened 12/25/25
My Dad had a Paul Simon Best Of that he used to play when I was growing up so I was familiar with Mother and Child Reunion and Me and Julio Down by the Schoolyard. There's something mercurial about the individual songs, I am enjoying them and something will happen lyrically or musically to throw me off or I'll be finding a song a little mundane and then a brilliant lyric or unexpected musical turn will grab my attention. As such, it's hard to rate this, because it's slippery and hard to fix an opinion on. I liked it more than Hearts and Bones but think Graceland probably has more magic so I'm going to award this a 3.
I enjoy the rhythm. However, unfortunately, I thought the lyrics were quite forgettable.
I love this classic record.
cant believe ive not heard this album before, wow peace like a river. yeah gorgeous love it
Top shelf Paul
8/10
i was not really moved by this. the sound is pleasant and deep but i'm not a big folk fan and the lyrics were nothing special. i don't see myself re-listening to any of these songs in the near future. still, i'm glad this was the first album to pop up in the generator. i would have not listened to it if it weren't for this proyect. i'm excited!!
Very interesting use of instruments, however, I will probably never listen to any of the songs ever again on my own.
Poslechla bych si znovu? Možná. Některé písničky fajn. Některé mají indiánský vibe. Asi bych stáhla půl hvězdy, kdyby to bylo možné.
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!
More hippy shit.
It was alright.. Duncan stood out Pretty mediocre though in my opinion but then again we all receive music differently and I can appreciate that somewhere out there this has changed someone's life.
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
Too hippie/70s for me
Don’t care for it. Not my type of music.
6/10 good space filler album. Very suzie. Favorite song: peace like a river (duncan is also very good)
a bit too country for my liking.
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.
I definitely don't hate this album, but It doesn't stand out to me. There are a few songs I enjoyed and will listen to again, but not my favorite album.
Zuhause, Gerstetten, Deutschland. Ganz okay.
A solid album of songs. Simon can hit it out of the park sometimes but a few tracks seemed like filler to me.
A really soft album thats just a little too slow for my liking, particularly the last 5-ish songs. I’m okay with folk music but this one just didnt quite appeal to me. A few decent tracks but nothing too exciting in my opinion Standout songs: Duncan Run That Body Down Me and Julio Down by the Schoolyard
It’s a 3.5
Paul Simon has very gentle voice. I really like his other album "Still crazy after all these years" but this one is also enjoyable. I would rate it 6,5/10
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
Tranquileras, para poner de fonfo
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
country folk old ppl music😭🙏
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.
Listened through twice, with reading the chronology (1972) makes this interesting if not great. I can understand the adulation, but he has better albums in his quiver. 1. Mother And Child Reunion 2. Me And Julio Down By The Schoolyard 3. Peace Like A River
mellow and emotional and silly and fun
Last two weeks all i'm getting is Paul Simon and Neil Young. I'm sick of both of them. I've heard Graceland and PSR&T and now this album. This album was done after separating from Garfunkel where Simon, I guess, had to prove that he's an actual musician and this proved that he was capable of writing songs and making music. Lyrically the songs are open and honest. Nothing overly creative, it's like conversational songwriting. Don't get me wrong, I think there's skill in being able to communicate your emotions effectively and directly, and that's what he does.....it just doesn't blow me away. It doesn't help that i'm just not interested in his music and this album is full of cartoony melodies. In terms of albums to listen to before you die, this one is replaceable and forgettable. I get that it established Paul Simon as a legitimate artist without Garfunkel but.........ok? Great. I think we can afford to drop this album since he's so represented on this list. As you can tell, I don't have a high impression of Paul Simon.
Lovely LP
Some nice folk rock. Probably need a few more listens, but doesn't stand out to me.
#31 I'm beyond done hearing folk from this list
3.5
Classic Paul Simon
Some highs, some lows. I feel like I listened to this as a teenager 20+ years ago so a handful of songs were familiar. Slow start, strong middle, weak end. Would give it a 3.5 if that were possible.
very fresh diversity of sounds, my dad called this one the weird album where he does a bunch of different sounds with random ppl from all over the place
This was a nice album. Good folk and some blues in there too. Nice listening.
I like 3 songs (Mother and Child, Me and Julio, Armistice Day...the rest were not necessarily horrid, just meh. Very easy listening, but that's about it...Congratulations sucked though. 3 stars MOR stars.
perfect for a snowy day like today. such a happy voice
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
Yeah
First listen
Okay.
Couple bangers, but overall pretty unremarkable to me. 6 for the couple of fun songs
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.
Insane vocal ability and individual instrumental skill
One of the best songwriters ever. And he can sing.
love!
almost like "cowboy" music, not exactly my style but i can imagine these songs being played in brandy melville hahha
Wow very nice but when I went to find the album I got really scared because I saw his face and it was actually really scary I’m sorry
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 is my first review and I'm a little worried about review inflation so that may be coloring the number of stars I give this. Also I'm going to rank these against how well I think they belong on this list. A 3 star great album is still a soildly great album. 5 Stars would go to a work of genius with no flaws. One star would mean I question it's position as great but not necessarily that it's bad. That said, I recognize the importance of this album. It is laying the groundwork for a five star album 14 years in the future. It was one absolutely perfect song (Mother and Child Reunion) and one song I find annoying at best (Me and Julio Down by the Schoolyard) and the rest are all range from pretty good to unoffensive. There are great bits to most songs but to me they are flawed breakthroughs pointing to the perfection to come.
My favourite from Paul Simon. Impressive first album following the breakup with Garfunkel. Nice warm sound and feeling with catchy tunes too.
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
Initially, lots of energy. I liked the vibe from the very start. As I keep going though, I’m finding it a bit too bouncy and light. Not super my style. Almost annoying to me, and trying to keep myself from mindlessly changing the song.
Cozy vibes
Very good album. Strong songs, he’s a good songwriter worth listens.
Very good album. Definitely reminiscent of the Beatles as they were made in the same era. Very beautiful sonically. The album flowed extremely nicely while still having every song feel unique and exciting. My favorite song was paranoia blues because I loved the visuals. Definitely will have to check out more of his work
Mehhhhh not really for me. First song was all right
Self named lol
Really liked this album tbh
Generally pleasant but not all that interesting. A few tracks like Peace Like a River have nice instrumentation.
Fine folk album, but I see why only Me and Julio survived the test of time. Again, nothing wrong with this album, just no songs outside of the aforementioned were super smashing for me.
Whispy.
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.
Mother and Child Reunion - 4/5 Duncan - 5/5 Everything Put Together Falls Apart - 2/5 Run That Body Down - 5/5 Armistice Day - 3/5 Me and Julio Down by the Schoolyard - 5/5 Peace Like a River - 5/5 Papa Hobo - 3/5 Hobo's Blues - 2/5 Paranoia Blues - 3/5 Congratulations - 4/5 Average score: 3.6/5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️ i guess i half-enjoyed this. there really are some gems in here, it's a shame i didn't care for half the tracks on here the album just seemed to lack cohesion in my opinion, like there were too many ideas being exploredon one album. i probably would've liked it if Paul stayed more in the folk lane
Pretty nice.
Tellement blues je m'attendais pas à ça! Dobro et slide en open tuning, formes blues etc. 2ieme album solo après le split après Garfunkel, (le premier a jamais été publié semble-t-il), il se cherche un peu, cet album a pas grand chose de spicy ou de unique, assez dull même si on tape un peu du pied sur certains blues J'ai de loin préféré Graceland meme si c'était longtemps après
Summer after college, in mournful limbo between everything that came before and a great unknown expanse, driving around with nowhere to be quite yet.
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
American folk. Really not my think at all, like a weird form of storytelling but very much at the cost of the music being good.
A bright and shining way to start a solo career!
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.
5.5/10
Honestly great
Laid back yet energetic. Really into hobos seemingly. Great background music not in a negative way
This is extremelly dull. First song good and stand out song me and Julio down by the Schoolyard. The rest I never want to hear again
OK
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)
Not my thing but since watching the documentary must say I like this guy
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
Duncan is my favorite Paul Simon song, but there are a number of so so songs
yes good
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?
Classic. Not up for debate.
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.
He’s no Bob Dylan (compliment)
Not his best work. After the album finished and Spotify moved on to related tracks it improved!
Faixa favorita: Paranoia Blues Letra favorita: “Everything Put Together Falls Apart” Como me senti: Country e hétero Resumo: Álbum solo que mistura folk, pop e narrativa íntima. Paul traz pequenas cenas do cotidiano em histórias cantadas, com leveza e humor. Reação pessoal: Escutei à noite de janelas abertas com o vento frio passando; foi como ouvir pequenas histórias de um jovem falido. Me fez pensar em estar perdida e juventude.
- 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 thing isn’t for me, but I did like it more than Dylan if we’re talking folk storyteller
It’s fine but knowing that Graceland is probably on this list it seems like a waste of time
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.
Odeio quando os artistas não sabem quais são as músicas boas do álbum. Das 6 primeiras, só duas são boas, "Everything Put Together Falls Apart" e "Armistice Day". Ironicamente, são as duas com menos streams entre as 6 (talvez o errado seja eu). Da música 7 em diante o álbum melhora bastante. Com uma pegada bem mais raiz, melódica, e criativa. Apesar de "Peace Like a River" ter sido a minha favorita, é necessário fazer um menções honrosas à "Hobo's Blues" e "Paranoia Blues". A finalização não é das melhores, mas é honesto. Resumindo: um álbum que começa bem mal, com algumas ressalvas, e se redime no lado B. Faltou maturidade para explorar mais as ideias que eram de fato boas. Melhor do álbum: "Peace Like a River". Pior do álbum: "Me and Julio Down by the Schoolyard".
Detesto Paul Simon. Álbum completamente esquecível. Não entendi a escolha do reagginho ser a primeira do álbum, mas é a melhor, mesmo sendo bem mediana
I love Paul Simon, there’s something about his music that grabs me and sticks like nothing else does. He has such gorgeous melodies, but also fantastic instrumentation. A beautiful album with a great variety of songs.
I really liked this. More than I expected to. Nice to go back to a 30- something minute album rather than 1 hour +.
love the similar flute sound to "El Condor Pasa" on Duncan. "Mother and Child Reunion" has this unique stop-start dub/reggae kinda feel. "Run That Body" down has the feel of most Paul Mccartney Beatles tunes.
Mixed bag but nothing that was awful.
2 - Ok. There is better Paul Simon music out there. The song Duncan is nice.
Such a delightful songwriter. Hard to have a bad time with him. 8/10
1. mother - 2 2. duncan - 1.5 3. together - 1 4. run - 1 5. day - 1.5 6. julio - 2.5 7. River -1.5 8. Papa - 1 9. Blues - 1 10. Paranoia - 1 11. Congratulations - 1.5
What do you do after being in one of the best duos ever? Record a brilliant album, and better to come. One of the greats.
I like some of Paul Simons stuff but this just didn't do it for me
There's part of me that thinks this album is at least as good as anything Simon and Garfunkel released. It certainly cements Paul Simon as the main songwriting force of the duo. There's also a ton of variety and some really stand out tracks here. "Me and Julio Down by the School Yard" may be my favorite thing he's ever done. There is a part of me though that feels like it's missing something. Maybe it's too eclectic without really gelling together, or maybe Art Garfunkel had a subtle quality that really helped to balance things out. For some reason, this album feels just shy of 5 stars to me, but I can't put my finger on it. But the thing is, I can't actually find any good reason *not* to give it 5 stars as it's really good album regardless. So I'm feeling generous in the hope that when the mood strikes me, this album will just fit perfectly because there's a lot to love here, even if I don't quite hear it as a whole today.
I quite enjoyed this. Quite a few different styles used with some quite catchy tunes and lyrics
Nice
I’ve always had a soft spot for Paul Simon, as he is one of my childhood heroes (the amount of time I sang scarborough fair in school plays, contests, concerts is absolutely insane), but this record is an absolute gem. I love the production and the use of the guitar, and Simon’s voice is velvety and light, absolutely delightful. Loved loved loved this record
Good interesting songs
Good album. Not as good as I was expecting, but good nonetheless.
Some classics.
This is a bit of a variety piece that just about works. The Calypso-esque sounds on first track didn’t get it off to a great start. It felt a bit forced where somehow the pan pipes on Duncan didn’t. Then you get some decent tracks dotted around. Some enjoyable funky guitar on Armistice Day and a few others that while not profound are generally decent. Papa Hobo sounded like a S&G song but very much poorer for only being half the equation. All in all quite a mixed bag and I’d probably rather just listen to S&G but there’s enough to pique the interest (just).
Interesting album which I found myself phasing in and out of with regard to my enjoyment. The plus for me was the often stripped back arrangement which allowed the unique elements to shine, and they captured the tones and depth of the featured as a result. It made some of the guitar elements in particular very engaging. Ultimately well put together. I think the key downside and probably which dated some of the songs was the incessant need to throw the kitchen sink at it with regard to the depth and variety of musical instruments on offer. From maraca to flutes. They have experimented themselves out of a 4 in my opinion here.
Overall this is a lovely sounding album. The well composed songs are perfectly recorded and the mix is artfully done. There is some really good stuff in there, particularly the guitar, but sometimes it just tries to do a bit too much. For example, I was really enjoying the stripped back guitar performance of 'Armistice Day', despite the bongos, then the maracas started and it lost me. The songs are all just a bit too saccharine for me and it lacks any bite or edge. From the moment it opened with a reggae track, the album had a tinge of self indulgence about it and the gratuitous use of flutes and tambourines made me think of over-exuberant secondary school music teachers.
well he's Paul Simon
Melancólico
Yes waiter I would like some Simon and Garfunkel, hold the Garfunkel
Liked it more than similar sounding albums but still don’t love it
First song sounded like Bob Marley. Nice peaceful music
No stand out songs for me, probably one of his weaker albums but will still happily listen to it over and over. He's a genius.
Who knew Paul Simon's music would improve by cutting off the dead weight of a lesser partner? I guess Paul Simon knew.
This album has a lot of classics on it even without Garfunkel
Excellent as Paul Simon may be, I’m not convinced he’s 100% for me. That being said, I think if you wanted to give a foreigner an album that explained America in the 70’s/80’s, this album may be a strong contender. Like a slightly folksier version of Springsteen
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!
Fine
Добротный, приятный альбом со спокойной, доброй музыкой. 7 из 10.
Álbum muito agradável. Arranjos e vocais no ponto! QoA Adonis New.
Etter å ha hørt S&G og Graceland, må jeg si dette var litt skuffende. Ikke dårlig, men heller ikke essensielt...?
Tror jeg har hørt mer på dette albumet enn noen S&G-plater, og ja, mer enn Graceland også. Selv om hans største låter kom ut sammen med Garfunkel, så mener jeg at dette albumet har flere verdige arvtagere. "Duncan" og "El Condor Pasa" kan man fint spille back to back for eksempel. De åpenbare hitsene "Mother and Child Reunion" og "Me and Julio" er certified bangers. "Hobo's Blues" får meg til å skjønne at Lillebjørn Nilsen har hatt plata også. Men når jeg hører albumet igjen nå så tror jeg soundet er det som treffer meg best. Simon er en mesterlig gitarist og det farger mye av lydbildet, og litt ekstra krydder med alle de snodige instrumentene han trekker fram her og der. Jeg klarer ikke peke på hvilken årstid plata passer best til, kanskje det er en helårsplate. Den føles egentlig bare som en logisk videreutvikling av Bridge Over Troubled Water, og viser at det er null tvil om at det var Paul Simon som dro lasset.
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
Sympa, album folk. Oubliable
Enjoyed a lot of it, including the opening reggae song and the one that mentioned Detroit. Definitely a headphone album — recording is stellar.
Julio drags this to mid
Really good
A day in the life of Paul Simon, this album seems like an honest accounting of his authentic life. However, his life isn't really interesting enough to make a compelling album... favorite track was Duncan, the demo version
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
Not my thing
Did not expect that based of the album cover....
much chiller vibe compared to blood and chocolate, very folksy feel to it standouts: Duncan - love the flute action Run That Body Down Hobo's Blue - LOVED the instrumental, prob maybe a 5/10 i feel very overall lukewarm abt the album, no insane standouts....
Interesting music. Paul Simon is clearly a talented artist, but meh. There's nothing bad here, but nothing that will make me want to listen to this album again.
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.
It's pleasant enough but a little more boring and lacks the imagination of Graceland.
What the hell was going on down in the school yard
I liked it
Graceland is better but this is good
pretty sure Paul Simon will be my longest loved artist. this album is perfect. the perfect cure for a wacky / hard / off / sad day, always.
This is such an easy, great listen. Love me some Paul Simon.
A little too easy listening for me
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.
Very good
Hyggelig nok.
Eh
Awesome
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!!
Very delightful. I’m more familiar with the Graceland album but knew some of the hits here too. Would say I’m a fan!
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
I enjoyed graceland a lot more
Paul Simon is a better singer and instrumentalist than Bob Dylan and on par with lyrics. His music is so much more pleasant to listen to. You can listen to this album on many levels and in many contexts. Simply excellent.
Couple songs I know and enjoy but overall the album is meh
Can't wait until Paul Simon decides he likes Drill and does a whole album ripping off that.
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
Paul isn’t my vibe by interesting to hear his early sounds
Por uma questão de tempo não consegui ouvir tudo.. é o que é
Really enjoyable easy listening album. Guitar work in particular was brilliant. Really looking forward to a second listen
Not bad, but kinda not my jam.
yuh
Excellent
Etheral schön, ne ganze experience Wish you where here (*****)
Not my jam but solid 3 stars. was never much of a Simon & garfunkel fan anyway
Koselig og melankolsk. Kan funke dette, men blir også litt fort kjedelig
Muzak.
Um álbum que já achei fraco, na primeira audição há 5 anos, depois em 2024 já o considerei bom, e hoje nesta terceira audição considero um bom disco, mas não é uma obra que impressiona. As canções folk pop são bonitas e agradáveis, mas os temas com inclinação para o blues, não me agradam tanto.
A true classic
A classic
Nice sound, light enjoyment
I have no idea why but I LOVED this album. I was torn between a 4 and a 5 but decided to give it a 5. It just hits all the notes for me. The instrumentation is awesome. Every time I listen I find something new to enjoy.
One of my very favorites from Paul Simon!
No private session used for Spotify. I like Paul Simon's music a lot and I impressed with his long and varied career. I listened to this album a couple of times and then listened to other Paul Simon albums throughout the day.
I love Simon and Garfunkel, but Paul Simon’s solo work might be even better
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.
The well known songs are great, but overall the album is a little lackluster.
Very good.
Good stuff
The self-titled "Paul Simon" album showcases his fantastic songwriting and blend of styles, from folk to reggae. The acoustic guitar creates a pleasant, chill vibe that's enjoyable, but some tracks feel a bit boring and lack the punch of his later work like "Graceland." While the lyrics are interesting and highlight Simon's talent as a solo artist, it doesn’t quite reach the heights I hoped for.
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
Klare meg fint uten
Fascinating glimpse into Paul Simon stepping out on his own, post-split from Garfunkel. You could forgive him for keeping things really simple; writing his signature folk songs and delivering them with consummate effortlessness. But no, he's not content to do this on more than a handful of songs. He is also insistent on taking inspiration from rock, reggae, blues, Latin music and jazz; a very telling peek into his overall curiosity and wide-angled lens on music. The man just loves to push boundaries and try his hand at new things. When you couple that hyperactive musical palate, the fastidious attention to detail and Paul's natural talent for poetry and melody, you are onto something truly special. This LP was just the tip of the iceberg. Paul's opening statement, but it's also a sublime collection of inspired songcraft that dabbles in the unexpected while remaining totally accessible and delightful.
Great singer songwriter, but its just not my thing
Fantastic, incredible guitar and lyrics, saved 90% of the songs to my Spotify music.
The instrumentation is interesting, but the singing and songwriting isn't for me.
que álbum delícia, até comecei a seguir o querido #choraNeilYoung
Pleasant, with a few familiar favourites.