Reviews (page 6 of 14)
Nice
Nice
A simple and well-made album. Have a close personal connection to this album as this was the first album my father bought after I was born. He tells a tale of listening to this album nonstop for the two weeks after I was born while he was taking care of me at home. Paul Simon having his first chance to be on his own, his music became a little funky or a little groovy, a little less folk, singer, songwriter and got blues and world music and it is really appreciated.
Now THIS is the Paul Simon I've been waiting for. Much more of the singer-songwriter vibe I was hoping for in the other two of his albums I've had thus far (#81 "Hearts and Bones" and #211 "Graceland"). I think really what I want from him (and what a lot of people probably want from him) is just more Simon and Garfunkel. And that probably frustrates the hell out of Paul Simon. But that's his problem. The elements of funk, world music, and folk that he weaves in here are, while a departure from what he'd done prior, welcomed because they're intertwined so seamlessly. They feel like they fit and they should be there as part of his sound. It's like the natural evolution from what he'd done with Garfunkel. This is an easy four stars. Close to five, really it was. Hell I'll even say it's really four and a half stars, but. I have to round that down here. It's like I said above - all I really want from him is more Simon and Garfunkel and this is the closest I'm assuming he ever got to making a record like that by himself. So I can't give it five because it isn't what I wanted it to be. Bummer. Standout Tracks: Mother and Child Reunion, Everything Put Together Falls Apart, Armistice Day, Me and Julio Down by the Schoolyard, Peace like a River, Hobo's Blues, Paranoia Blues
I had very low expectations for this as I was expecting some waffle folky nonsense, I was wrong and surprised, its got a bit of rock, a bit of ska, a bit of blues, its good stuff
I really enjoyed this!
This is good. Peaceful. It's simple, but it makes me happy. And it feels like a much better stylistic choice and vibes for Paul than Graceland. I do miss Art, but this works really well on its own. Favorite Song(s): Run That Body Down
Great vibes. Love Rhymin Simon
Gemmy
Tämä on kerrassaan hyvä levy, ja sopivan erillainen verratta S&G-osastoon. Reggaefiiliksetkään ei oikein haittaa mua. Tekisi mieli antaa febonen mutta ei tää ihan sinne riitä. Mitä vitosesta uupuu? Ehkä joku megaluokan klassikkobiisi vielä, en oo varma! 4/5
I have a theory that the older you get, the harder Paul Simon hits. My Standouts: Mother and Child Reunion, Me and Juilo Down by the Schoolyard, Peace Like a River, Congratulations
All the elements of what you are going to get out of a Paul Simon record...a mishmash of styles, all tastefully and respectfully adopted, with thoughtful songwriting...especially on the chord profression side. 3 chords and the truth this is not.
Really liked this one. Pleasant and cohesive sound, reminded me of a lot of the best parts of different genres. And I generally like Paul's voice :) Some are a bit boring but overall good listen. 4/4.5
This was wonderful. It encapsulates a lot of what Paul Simon did beautifully in this phase. Its a combination of really good pop songs, but with added musicality and breadth. Me and Julio is one of the og's.
One of the best songwriters, in my humble opinion. I was familiar with the hits, but hadn't ever listened to the entire album. I don't know that I would dive into the deep cuts again but it was an enjoyable listen. 3.5/5.
terug een mooi album van Polle
A singer-songwriter that excels at both
Throw in the hits and stuff some solid songwriting around them and you have yourself a Paul Simon album. I really do like ‘Duncan’ and enjoyed the demo version of ‘Paranoid Blues’. Nicely heard.
Knew some songs but never listened to entire album. Have to say I enjoyed this more than I thought I would. Great production and songs had a lightness to them. Will definitely be listening to this again.
70s god
Que lindo es escuchar música sudamericana hecha por este hombre
Nada que un buen disco folky de un enano no pueda resolver
It's good, but I'm certain I could defeat Paul in the octagon.
Very good. I enjoyed.
Easy listen. 4/5
Całkiem przyjemne. Takie 4/5 do lecenie w tle
Enjoyed this. I like the Simon and Garfunkel super group better, but there are some great hits on this album.
A terrific debut solo album. I love a few of these songs and the rest I also enjoy.
total banger in me and julio, fair few deeper cuts elsewhere
I didn't realize how many of these tracks I already knew before I listened to this one in full. Solid classics all around.
Always a smooth listen.
Very well crafted, nuanced and smooth folk-rock album with a lot of different influences. My favorite was Duncan, which was heavily influenced by South American music (it reminded me a lot of El Condor Pasa). Great album!
I’m at a 3.5 that I’ll bump up to a 4. I think the most famous Paul Simon solo album is Graceland, and “You Can Call Me Al” is effectively the extent of my knowledge for Paul Simon as a solo artist. This is still pretty far away from the mid-80s though – this is pretty fresh after the breakup of Simon & Garfunkel as a duo. I don’t know how much of that is necessarily reflected in these songs, but this does feel like the start of a natural evolution and experimentation past their work. It’s not too different, obviously – a lot of this is steeped in the slower acoustics and storytelling that made Simon & Garfunkel work as a duo, but when he steps out of the box just a bit, whether it’s the reggae influenced opening track, or the more upbeat tempo of “Me and Julio Down by the Schoolyard”, something pops just a little bit that makes most of these tracks work. However, I do think a lot of this album suffers from one continuous quirk that I just don’t vibe with – I think the album is just a little too ambiguous. There’s great storytelling here, but so much of it is made for the listener to fill in too many blanks, and it sort of makes the effort fall apart. There’s nothing wrong with ambiguity, but when it’s done this many times, it sort of loses the mystique and just starts to feel half-baked. You can only ask a listener to think so critically for so long without losing some of the focus on the music. It’s probably how Simon & Garfunkel functioned as a duo, cleaning up the ambiguity to find the perfect balance between intellectualism and airy prose. That’s not enough to drag it down to a 3.5 by itself though – I think there’s just a few too many acoustic only tracks here for my tastes, but they’re also so well done that I’d be remiss not to bump it up to a 4 overall. This is definitely a good album, and a rather fast 34 minutes, but it did leave me scratching your head a few too many times. Someone else will click with a bit more, but for me, I think it’s a solid album plagued by a few too many faults to really hit its highest potential. Hence, a 3.5 up to a 4.
Paul Simon's voice is always recognizable, but his music style is pretty much amorphous. He seems like a true artist who follows the sound wherever it leads him. The one through line is "folk". I really enjoyed the blues songs and obviously loved Julio. Didn't like some of the slower stuff.
-I like this one, I’ve had two Paul Simon records on here so far and they both seem pretty consistently good. It took me through a pretty wide range of moods, too. Some songs were definitely more interesting than others but none of it was definitively “bad” in my opinion -Favorites are Mother and Child Reunion and Run That Body Down
Paul is a GOAT
Instant simon&garfunkel vibes am inekicke. Bis ich cheggt han es isch au vum einte. Richtig gmüetlich, wär es klars 3.5, good mood, good music
It's a fun album! Mixes quite a lot of styles - folk, reggae, afrobeat, pop. Vampire Weekend have totally ripped this off :P
Loved it
Excellent album from front to back with a few classic songs sprinkled in there
Mother & Child Reunion is one of my all-time favorite songs, so this album starts strong. Me & Julio is great, as is Duncan. There are some clunky moments, but overall this is still an amazing album.
Þetta var svo góð plata að ég setti hana aftur á strax um kvöldið með matnum. Þessi plata mun augljóslega fara oftar í spilun sem rólegheitabakgrunnstónlist. Virkilega gott stöff
I always hated Paul Simon growing up. But he sure has grown on me. Motherless child reunion is an amazing song. This album is great ambiance for a nice visit with friends
Surprisingly enjoyable. Folky but not in a bad way.
I’m familiar with Simon & Garfunkel and Graceland, so this was totally new and surprisingly good to me. I really like this in-between period of Paul Simon, although I think he should stay away from reggae.
Very enjoyable but better with Garfunkel
Solid easy listening experience. Easy to enjoy 4.2
Loved everything put together falls apart
Love this.
Paul Simon's first album since his split from Art Garfunkel and it's good, not quite as good as the last couple of Simon & Garfunkel albums but you could tell where the talent in the duo came from. Mother & Child Runion and Me & Julio Down By The Schoolyard are my personal highlights.
Great album. Never would have listened to Paul Simon without this site.
This is definitely the kind of music my parents listened to when I was little. Even if I don't explicitly recognize all the songs it has a certain comforting nostalgic feeling to it. I like that it's more laid back but still heartfelt. I think the brief interlude at the end that had a very "hobo" twang-guitar vibe hilarious and very unexpected. Definitely a creative decision, even if I don't agree with it. Favorite song: "Duncan" Best representation of the album: "Peace Like a River"
Good album
Not his best, but still a great artist finding his craft.
You know, I can’t tell how much of the Paul Simon songs I heard were with Garfunkel or were part of his solo efforts. Regardless, he is definitely one of the greatest singer/songwriters of all time and this album is one of the highlights of his career. It is a big collection of varying styles, from classic folk rock, to reggae, to even some Brazilian samba. Yet the album keeps a very somber, very personal tone throughout its runtime, as seen in the likes of Duncan and Run That Body Down. It does feel likes it drags near the end a little, but this is a very good album overall. Favorite track: Me and Julio Down By the Schoolyard Other hits: Duncan, Peace Like a River, Everything Put Together Falls Apart, Paranoia Blues, Mother and Child Reunion
fav: peace like a river menos fav: mother and child reunion mother and child reunion: nao esperava essa vibe reggae??? que estranho, pela capa eu achava que era algum rock hippie vibes paul mccartney dps do disband. é gostosinha, eu veria em algum filme do sessao da tarde. esquece n gostei. duncan: A FLAUTINHAAAAAAAAAAAAA gostei muito!!!!!!!!!!! salvei. vibes i rather be a sparrow than a snaaaaaillll, compreende mais a vibes que eu achei que o primeiro teria. eptfa: tristinho q nem o nome rtbd: normar n relevante armistice day: violao daora, gostei majdbts: gostei, curti. me lembrou beatles tb peace like a river: eu realmente amei essa desde o primeiro segundo. curti, aumentei o volume e acho que vai ser uma das poucas que vou voltar a ouvir de novo. (vi o perfil do cara e tem uma musica do MILTON NASCIMENTO pra ele?????) papa hobo e hobo blues: n achei nd demais paranoia blues: blues country. tem como ser melhor? gostei e salvei. adorei como ele canta o refrão congratulations: essa musica e triste NAO se engane pelo nome majdbts (demo): simpatica mas prefiro og duncan (demo): caralho essa musica e boa em qlqr versao. n tem flautinha mas tem a VIBE - reouvi e n gostei tanto q nem a versao original :( paranoia blues (unreleased): ...mas eu to ouvindo ela pq ta dada como nao lançada? vibes elvis e beatles transando e tendo um filho que é essa musica. QUE LETRA MALUCA, critica como o estados unidos fode td mundo, tb gostei dessa versao - reouvi e gostei mais que a original EXTRA: Um vento passou (Para Paul Simon) [feat. Paul Simon] de Milton Nascimento: o simon cantando em portugues?? que legal <3333 é um mpb meio jazz e é uma musica bem acalentadora, parece um abraço.
Despite some sleepy tracks I appreciated a variety of sounds and Me and Julio is one of my favs by him.
Solid, but the only standouts for me were the radio releases.
This was my first time listening to Paul Simon in its entirety, and it turned out to be a solid album. While it’s clearly a folk rock record, one of the first things I noticed was the subtle reggae influence on a few tracks. Not every song leans that way, but as the album progresses, it becomes clear that Simon draws from a variety of genres and styles. The percussion, in particular, adds a lot of texture and diversity. However, the overall production remains intentionally minimalistic, allowing Paul Simon’s fingerpicking guitar and vocals to take center stage.
Paul Simon is the second solo studio album by Paul Simon, originally released in 1972. I have such a soft spot for 1970s singer/songwriter albums. They feel so personal for some reason. Like I can relate to a lot of the songs from that scene. Paul Simon wasn't exactly part of Laurel Canyon scene, but this album gave me that same vibe. I really liked how varied the genres are on here. It starts off with a reggae/rocksteady track which I absolutely love. There's blues, folk, Americana, and some great great songwriting. The only drawback regarding this album is that it's a bit raw in my opinion. Some of the songs feel very unpolished/demo-ish. Maybe that's how they were intended to be. I'm probably just used to more polished singer/songwriter records from that era. Nonetheless, this was an awesome record!
This was Paul Simon's first solo album after Simon & Garfunkel broke up and it further proved that Simon drove the group with his fantastic songwriting. A good collection, too bad Kodachrome was on the next album because that is my favourite Paul Simon song. Overall, I consider, There Goes Rhymin' Simon his best record, but this album stands well on it's own. There are at least three songs that are as good as any S & G songs, but there is some filler, in my opinion, that keep it from being a classic.
Super solid.
Good.
Simon steps out sans Garfunkel. Clever lyrics make up for sometimes lacking melodies.
J’ai bien apprécié ce que Paulo a fait ici; le mélange de folk acoustique, de blues sale et même de… reggae? C’est pas une révolution, mais ça donne un ptit break au oreille
I think Paul Simon is a treasure, and this is a very good album, but I'm not sure how to rate it. As much as I love Paul, I want to give it 4 stars, but it's really only got a couple of great songs. I wouldn't call the rest filler -- it's still solid, but is it enough? Since I love Paul, I'll give it 4 stars, but I think it's borderline.
Hobo's Blues: "ooh, sounds like Django. Oh, it's Stéphane Grappelli on violin, nice!" Wish that track was longer.
Never a bad album.
I have been listening to Paul Simon's solo work for the first time this year, and the timing could not be better for his second studio album. I heard the reggae-leaning “Mother and Child Reunion” and “Me and Julio Down by the Schoolyard” before the full listen. This self-titled album carries much of the same folk songwriting sensibility Paul had in Simon & Garfunkel, albeit while experimenting with some stylistic changes here and there. I already mentioned the reggae track, but there are also blues tracks towards the end, Latin music like on “Armistice Day” with the percussion switch up and saxophones, and smooth jazz like on “Run That Body Down” with the use of double bass and a vibraphone. All the while Paul sings about drugs, adolescence, and his troublesome marriage with then-wife Peggy Harper. The only complaint I had with the album is there wasn’t much variance in the folk guitar dynamics for some of the songs. It does come across as similar in the soft acoustic vibe outside of the style shifts mentioned previously. Still, I had a pleasant time with this album, and give it a solid recommendation.
I've been listening to a lot of Paul Simon (solo and Simon and Garfunkel) recently and I’ve come to realize just how great of a folk-pop writer he is. I tag 'pop' there because he has a way of making these mellow, tight, and punchy tracks so damn easy to enjoy - especially tracks like 'Mother and Child Reunion', 'Run That Body Down', 'Duncan', and 'Me and Julio Down by the Schoolyard'. While not as melancholic as some of his stuff with S&G, it still has subtle hints of those bleaker moments, like on the song 'Congratulations' While I found the final few tracks semi-underwhelming, it was interesting to hear some of Paul's earlier folk-leaning works for the first time - and as expected, there are a handful of songs here that I'll be revisiting for, maybe, the rest of my life.
I liked Mother and Child Reunion, Me and Julio Down by the Schoolyard and Peace Like a River.
Really like Paul Simon actually. Great album 8/10
Almost a 5. Very enjoyable.
Have you ever noticed how stoned Paul Simon looks on the cover?
Excellent album. Paul Simon is great.
More beautiful songwriting. A couple of stone cold classics and a couple more that deserve to be better known than they are.
A lot more folk instrumentals than i expected.
Good songwriting and lyrics. Not quite as good as some of the Simon and Garfunkel but a pretty good self titled record. Unfortunately I wouldn't go out of my way to listen to this again, but it gets a 4 for my appreciation.
Maybe not his best, but it’s still really good. Paul Simon is just a great songwriter
Playful and tuneful
Lovely folk album, Paul Simon's lyrics and voice are both amazing and he has some nice fingerpicking throughout this too. "me and julio" is an obvious hit but I really enjoyed "Duncan", "Armistice day" and "Peace Like a River"
Bom, apesar de não ser dos meus artistas prediletos
great vibes
A couple boring songs but good overall.
Hello Simon my old friend
Love me some Paul Simon
Not my favorite of Paul Simon's content, but also one I haven't listened to a lot. I tend to prefer the more sparse instrumentation from these earlier albums (and his latest) over some of the more "world music" versions. But this doesn't have quite the emotional catch for me that some of Simon's writing does.
Has some all-time classics on it, and is filled out with some weird but okay songs. Giving it a four since the highs are so high, and there was at least one gem that I hadn't heard before listening to the whole album.
Приятно и талантливо. Под определенное настроение, но мне было бы сложно отличить этот альбом от других в этом жанре
Paul Simon hits with some really good deeper cuts I didn't know that were all very solid
"Me and Julio Down by the Schoolyard" is one of my faves of his.
приятный фолк-роковый(вроде) альбом, даже немножко блюза есть. возвращаться буду, но не слишком часто, все же, не совсем мое.
Pretty much what you'd expect from one half of folk-rock megastars Simon & Garfunkel. Stand out songs are the firts two singles from the album: the reggae song "Mother and Child Reunion", and "Me and Julio Down by the Schoolyard".
The most enjoyable Paul Simon album besides Graceland. Fun and not as boring as some of his other stuff.
7/10. Pleasant folk album. :)
A great find. Really enjoyable album.
Great chill album. I liked it.
Absolute banger. One of the greatest songwriters alive.
Really solid album. Has some classics and a lot of good deep cuts.
Me gustan mucho los arreglos en las canciones, buen álbum, no lo esperaba.
Lots of variety all of it interresting and worth listening to.
Love some of these songs, not a fan of all the pan flute or whatever that is but the African drum sounds are great. "Mother and Child Reunion" is an all-time favorite.
I've now realised I like Paul Simon
Excellent singer songwriter album, as you'd expect from Paul Simon, with lots of diverse flourishes, as you'd expect from Paul Simon. Also, it's eponymous, which is great as it gives me an excuse to write one of my favourite words. Oooh, eponymous. Rating: 3.5/5 Playlist track: Me and Julio Down by the Schoolyard Date listened: 20/06/24
Paul’s voice and songwriting are incredible. I’ve gotten used to his voice on Still Crazy After All These Years and Graceland so my first thought on this listen was how his voice sounds so much younger on this album than I remember. It’s hard for me to pick a favorites, it’s just such a perfect collection of songs.
I genuinely like paul simon, so no surprise I enjoyed this album.
Folky. Pretty good. Chill and mellow. My favorite so far
Pretty good, deffo see where Vampire Weekend got their ideas from.
Paul Simon's treading a fine line between beautiful simplicity and blandness, and that's not necessarily a good thing. I think the full-on analog sound suits Simon pretty well – and, given his discography, it seems like he agrees with me – but when acoustic instruments swamp an entire album, it's easy to get tired of them. Still, in terms of singer-songwriters (i.e. people who rarely, if ever, make use of new/electric/innovative sounds), Paul Simon's one of the best. He's great at constructing a happy, carefree atmosphere with some truly fantastic lyricism and solid production. Me and Julio Down by the Schoolyard is great. In fact, it's one of my favourite 70s songs, even before having heard this album. It's the only track I'd heard before, and it still remains my favourite. (Can't really go wrong with Simon's youthful, peppy vocal over a I-V-I-V guitar chord progression.) Excluding Graceland, this is surely the best in Simon's solo discography. I was also impressed by the lively reggae track Mother and Child Reunion, and the lower-energy, lyrics-focused Run That Body Down and Peace Like a River. The remaining tracks, on side 2 in particular, were not impressive, and an album consisting only of songs of that quality would get a 2/5 at most. Paranoia Blues, Hobo's Blues, Papa Hobo... they just felt a little devoid of substance. But I think I can forgive Simon just this once. 3.5/5 Key tracks: Mother and Child Reunion, Duncan, Me and Julio Down by the Schoolyard, Peace Like A River, Run That Body Down
Pretty good old tunes.
Apparently not a great person but he did make some wonderful music.
riktigt bra alltså. fan vad go han är. vissa låtar är lite sömniga men ändå bra. det hade ändå behövt hända lite mer på albumet för att det ska bli en femma
While it's not his best work, Paul's songwriting shines through with many of the songs containing beautiful melodies. Very Paul Mccartney-esque at times Influences from music created in other countries is seeping into the album, but rather than taking over almost completely (like graceland) it's incorporation is generally a bit more subtle which I personally find interesting. (with the exception of the first song) No song stands out as being totally trascendent like on other albums (like 50 ways to leave a lover or sounds of silence or bridge over troubled water) But the album is very consistantly good
Paul Simon sings about New England like Anthony Kiedis sings about California
Paul Simon is an amazing songwriter and this album is one of many that illustrates this fact. His ability to incorporate a variety of musical influences is in its infancy on this album. This is a taste of what is to come.
Not his best. But still great highlights. Some filler from older stuff as he was trying to gain traction.
Really nice and chill
A master craftsman at work. Even if Paul Simon isn't your thing, you must appreciate the man's ability to write and record. A national treasure at his best right here.
Didn't know this was the Simon and Garfunkle guy. More interesting than what I would have expected. Didn't expect the slight reggae vibes in the first song. Some Dylan vibes and I liked the narrative nature of the songs. Good fun easy listening! 7/10
Great collection of songs. I'd only heard some of them before, but the whole album is solid.
Good album, easy listening.
I always thought Neil Young was one of the best acoustic guitar players but I think Paul Simon is a strong contender for that claim. Simon's playing is fantastic throughout this record. The arrangements are so well thought out my only issue with Paul Simon are his lyrics. His singing is wonderful, but half the stuff he is talking about seems random for the sake of random. Unless he is on some other wavelength that I can't achieve. Most of these songs were great listens. I'd say this is album is 90% incredible. He definitely was the talent in Simon and Garfunkle. I wonder if Art has a record on this list. Time will tell.
Paul Simon is a fantastic songwriter who really has an ability to set the scene for you in his songs. He gives an intimate feeling of friendship with his lyrics; like you’ve always known him. This is a fantastic songwriter’s album. Good songs without overproduction. I really enjoyed it.
Mother and Child Reunion is a brilliant song. Me and Julio Down By The Schoolyard is great too. Really enjoyable listen 4/5
This is really good! I'd almost call it too short.
why did i not know its the SIMON and Garfunkel girl im so dumb 4.5/5
all the tracks are beautifully composed. great body of work
Mellow, deep and shine good bops. I really liked Armistice Day.
Not as many bangers as I thought, but still good!
Paul did some strong work from the last S&G record up until Graceland. This is probably my third favorite off that list.
Paul Simon is a master story teller with exceptional lyrical phrasing. He brought the best and most innovative musicians to his albums. His music just feels good.
Very pleasant! I enjoyed just about every song on this album. The whole album feels very intimate and personal. It's very easy to listen to. I could imagine listening to this on a rainy day next to the fire. 8/10 Would I listen again? Yes
Paul Simon should not have known what Gatorade was in 1971.
3.75
Excellent classic
I liked it I knew one of the songs and it was different experience. I got caught up in being an album that had a clear narrative structure
This was really good!
Ta güeno
Good, some good hits but some filler songs that sounded a bit similar. Too slow for my taste, but good songwriting.
A nice folksy songwriters’ album. 8.3/10 Best Track: “Me and Julio Down by the Schoolyard”
Easy listenin
it feels like I would listen to this album if I was studying at a coffee shop or taking a pensive walk (Bon Iver FEFA vibes). not bad, would be a good candidate for glee covers. I do like it the more I listen!
Prachtige stem, mooie muziek. Kan zeker in achting groeien
A real classic and a real talent
Lovely stuff. Acoustic guitar recording here is top shelf - some of the best I've heard. Great songwriting. 1 or 2 more hits would make this a 5. Julio isn't quite enough to lift it up there IMHO.
Lovely and charming and exceedingly well produced – just sounds crisp all around and outright pristine at times. There are many interesting – and ambitious – instrumentation/arrangement choices, which give each song its own personality. The reggae-vibes on the opener, the penny whistle-y flute and sea shanty effects of “Duncan.” See oompah-band effects and whistling on “Papa Hobo,” Hot-Club-cum-Dixieland-ish strings on”Hobo’s Blues” and the bluesy stomp of “Paranoid Blues.” Besides the obvious cuts, “Run That Body Down” is a waltzy revelation (the vibes add much – another great touch – as is the easy-mellow wah-wah-ing solo). “Congratulations” is the loveliest sort of lilting, with cool, melancholic-whimsical organ to make a fittingly high-quality close to the whole record. As much as one thinks Simon is massively arrogant and credits the stories about him being difficult to work with, there’s no disputing the pure excellence.
Hobo’s Blues sounds like I’m watching a Pixar short
Thank you Simon no Garfunkel
I've always been somewhat annoyed by Paul Simon's solo stuff. But this is a good album!
I have always loved this album. 3 epic tunes 2 good ones, and some filler. Like a snapshot of Paul Simon during the period when his genius was evident, but no fully developed.
A really nice friendly album, I can't pick many flaws with it, but I think it just slightly lacks some of that special sauce that Paul Simon is capable of. Fave Tracks: Mother and Child Reunion, Armistice Day, Me and Julio Down by the Schoolyard, Peace Like a River 4.2/5
Better than Simon & Garfunkel. Still not Graceland
Perhaps I have unrealistic expectations for this Paul Simon record since I just had Graceland a few albums before it, and although it doesn’t live up to the creativity and fun of that one it is still a quality listen. Some cute song topics mixed with effective political takes as well, and just a very lighthearted and innocent sound throughout. 7/10
Awesome and eclectic assembly of Paul Simon's diverse musical skills and inspirations. The wax and wane between hard acoustic blues melodies and whimsical folk tunes is mighty refreshing. This is a good album for those looking to get into Paul. Much more out there for the devout discography heros in terms of his art but those looking for some pop hits that don't diminish the charm of his song writing style, look no further than the self titled.
Fun tune,Idk I can't place it really but it's like going thru the American country kinda beat slow sunny days
Light. Airy. Spry. But not thin.
This is a good album. Paul was definitely the song-writing talent of S&G. Key songs for me were Me & Julio, and Run That Body Down, which feels a little biographical. Surprisingly good album.
An album I admit I had not heard in its entirety despite always enjoying Paul Simon and his work. Of course some fine songs like "Me and Julio" and " Mother and Child Reunion" demonstrate where he came from and provide clues on what is to come. A deep track gem is "Congratulations".
Good. Melodic. Easy listening. Good lyrics.
Me... meet Paul Simon. Great record! As someone who really only knew PS though S&G this was a great introduction to his work as a solo artist. So much competent guitar work in a folk record. My standout was "Peace Like a River" 4/5
I don't think I've heard this album in its entirety before, but it has some classics on it like "Me and Julio down by the schoolyard". I would totally listen to it again!
that first song, Mother and Child Reunion is an absolute reggae banger
Decent collection of gentle folk and blues. Paul Simon really excells in making comforting music. There is some wonderful guitar work but I feel you're often waiting for the end of the chorus to hear that one crazy riff. The blues chords really brighten up the harmony, especially in tracks like Falls Apart. Some of it might be too easy towards the end. I have a soft spot for stripped back albums like this. Enjoyable for sure.
I laugh every time I see this album cover because it's so funny to imagine a contemporary top 40 singer appearing like this. Actually, maybe under certain circumstances a hip hopper could have a parka like this. Wonderful songwriter, guitar player and singer kicking off a staggering run. Some accuse him of cultural appropriation, for example with the reggae of "Mother and Child Reunion" on here. I find the entire concept silly.
Un lindo album folk, con partes de blues e incluso folclore argentino.
From the first note there are hints of the global music influences that took nearly 15 more years to coalesce into the landmark of Graceland: Caribbean/reggae rhythms on "Mother and Child Reunion," Andean flutes on "Duncan," and Brazilian percussion on "Me and Julio Down by the Schoolyard." Other songs are clearly more to his folk singer/storyteller past. Many of these are lovely, but I think it's far more fascinating to hear this album in light of his later success, and consider the deep influence Simon has taken from musical around the world throughout his entire career.
Really nice folk album. Nothing wierd or quirky just solid tunes from a great talent.
Classic Paul Simon. Beautiful melodies, nice arrangements - what else could you ask for. Incredible opening track. Notable tracks include mother and child reunion, run that body down, peace like a river, me and Julio, and paranoia blues.
Most striking thing about this album is the use of secondary (behind the guitar) instruments. Lots of flutes, strings, percussion, and some that I wasn't even able to ID. Paul's voice isn't the best but its simple nature lends itself well to this album's atmosphere of mirth and celebration -- don't be fooled though, there is depth here that is only heightened by how much the self-title seemingly doesn't seem to take itself. Favorite tracks: Celebration, Me and Julio Down By the Schoolyard
Really enjoyable, very relaxing and soothing.
Very similar to Simon and Garfunkel but still remains true to Simon as an artist. Great album overall.
Wasn't expecting to enjoy this, but this album was fire
Generally solid song writing, never really a dull moment on the album
Paul Simon can write and sing, who knew! 3.8
When you think solo Paul Simon this is the sound you hear. Not as great as Graceland but I liked it more than Rhymin Simon. Some good deep tracks and some pleasant discoveries. Songs added to Spotify: 3
3.5
Grew on me as the album went on. I think "Peace Like a River" was my favorite track. Really enjoyed the guitar on this album.
This was a fun listen. Still remnants of Simon and Garfunkel, but you can hear his exploration of “world music” for lack of a better term coming in as well.
Yeah this is iconic
Not Graceland, but still good. Paul Simon is criminally underrated overall.
This dude can do everything. Thought I had pretty decent understanding of the Paul Simon "oeuvre", just from the big hit singles and his general existence in Pop culture and my parents' radios. But diving into this really expanded my view of his talents and impact. Assumed I would enjoy this but still surpassed expectations.
Liked it, his voice is so beautiful, really liked Peace like a river.
Flöjt är inte så ofta man hör. Jag var inte så fokuserad på att lyssna, men Paul Simon är bra, och det tyckte det albumet var rätt bra också. 4/5
Simons voice is so sweet mixed in this sugary sound
First Album that was post-Simon and Garfunkel-I'm not as familiar with his early solo work. Very simple, straightforward. and intimate with his storytelling. Clearly stretching his legs with different styles and sounds. I love the classics Me and Julio Down by the Schoolyard and Mother and Child Reunion, but my favorites for this album are Peace Like a River and Congratulations.
Folk-rock. Un poco lento para el vinilo. Un 4.
A few lulls, but mostly classics
Jaunty
Early solo Paul Simmon. Two icon songs, Mother and Child, and Julio are fantastic. The remaining songs are more than just fillers, you can see the beginnings of what would be a career long exploration into many genres of music.
Poetic
Very good easy listen
Enjoyed, easy to listen, nice vibes.
LOVE love love
I like the guitar-play. Over all a very solid album without smashhits or fails. Not an easy 4-star-rating but for sure better than average. Feels more like a 3.5.
Really like this kind of folk/blues/melancholic music.
Nice, chill and pleasant sounds, there are moments when this could just be it.
High quality songwriting, singing and guitar playing. every song feels unique with a good mix of folk and rock.
Beautiful album. This was a joy to listen to. I had imagined it’d be good but not that it’d be this pretty and fun.
4,3
Nice mix of musical styles.
I liked it. But it felt like elevator music. That's probably a comment on the success and likability of Paul Simon's music. But I'll never forgive him for taking Edie Brickell away from me. 4
I’ve heard several tracks from this album before. It’s a great album, and Simon’s acoustic guitar and soft vocals are compelling. I give this 4 stars.
Amazing! I've listened to Graceland once, but don't remember it well enough for it to have affected my expectations here. I had expected this to be very forgettable, a little shallow and generally unextrodinary - why I expected that I don't relly know, but I'm so pelased to have been wrong. From the off this album is full of heartfelt anti-wart sentiment, intricate (but not obnoxious) guitar playing, and a folky-bluesy undertone that really resonated with me. I listened to this twice and both times thoroughly enjoyed it. There's some filler, but it pales to the high moments of this album.
lets goooo
never listen to simon & garfunkel but this was a nice album all the way through
i really like this album. great songwriting as always and has a nice mix of styles. “run that body down,” “everything put together falls apart,” and “me and julio” are my favorites.
Interesting acoustic work that I hadn’t heard before.
Great background album,
Nice to sing to the baby
This was a great album- loved it all the way through
Another day and still no boo radleys - interesting. 4.2
Playful album, the lyrics are quite simple but all songs tell a story. Think this also shows Paul's vocal range/adaptability, as well as some cool guitar licks.
Paul Simon is SO BAD at choosing album cover art, that I feel it important to celebrate this album for him doing a good job in that realm for a change (possibly the only other time being Graceland). All the Simon and Garfunkel album covers are embarrassingly lame. Well, Sounds of Silence is okay, but that Greatest Hits cover, woof. And then There Goes Rhymin Simon is giving Steely Dan a run for the worst album cover by a great recording artist of all time. When Paul Simon was picking his stats he put everything into song writing and musical ability and attributed no points to graphic design, the min-maxing motherfucker. I just watched The Wrecking Crew documentary and was surprised to recognize several of the session musicians from that movie as playing on this album. Makes sense I suppose. Paul Simon is the type to bring in whoever will make his album as good as it can be. It’s really no different than going to Kingston to record with members of Toots and the Maytals in order to make “Mother and Child Reunion” sound like actual Reggae and not a pale imitation. Paul Simon was going to make the best music he could make and didn’t care if he had to beg, borrow or steal to do it. The first song on each side is the hit and up there amongst the best pop music of all time. But the rest of the album isn’t filler. It never reaches the heights of the two singles, but they are almost all compelling songs in their own way. This is a great artist making an album when he was in his prime. The world is a better place for this album being in it.
Some reggae elements on the opening track, followed by some 60s/70s flute heavy storytelling. A lot of other influences throughout (Latin, jazz, folk, blues), and thus, very diverse album. A little somber in places, personal and introspective, but then some rollicking and energetic, with unique percussion on "Me & Julio.." Fanciful guitar picking and playing, some nice little melodies. Pleasant record overall.
Fun!
Great album by Paul Simon solo, great sounds of folk, rock even reggae. Really enjoyed listening to this album.
Fantastic background music, some of the absolute best. I wasn't expecting such a variety to be honest.
I always forget the song Mother and Child Reunion! Anyway, great album, classic Paul Simon.
I’m sure most people think Graceland is the high watermark of his solo career, but give me this one. 4/5
Excellent album! Very relaxing!
Very interesting song writing. Really strong solid beginning, starts losing steam half-way.
Enjoyable, mainly calm easy listening. Some gems: Congratulations, Me and Julio down by the Schoolyard, Duncan
Worth to listen to
A beautifully, written, performed and produced collections of songs from the pint sized balladeer of mid-century America. His usual magpie nature sees him borrowing from such diverse influences as Mississipi Delta Blues to Reggae, but his delivery lack either the authenticity of these influences, or the later inventiveness of 'Gracelands'.
A great melodic, rhythmic and energetic album. Various changes of musical styles compliments Simon’s vocal and lyrical approach.
me and julio down by the schoolyard sounds like it could be synced in a travel ad
a favorite for sure
Again, I can hear his influence on other songwriters that I enjoy. That said, I’ll continue to let others tell me how good Simon is, rather than seeking his music on my own.
Vraiment une excellente surprise ! Je m'attendais à détester ça mais au contraire, c'était vraiment fun à écouter
Exquisitely crafted pop songs. I tend to gravitate to the songs with more fleshed out production, as the sparsely arranged ones seem more like sketches or ideas. But I can't find much to complain about; there isn't a single weak song on the album.
Gefällt mir direkt ziemlich gut. Er hat einfach schöne Hits. Geht auch teilweise schon in die Richung von „Graceland“. Gefällt mir!
Some really good songs and a couple of stinkers.
Siempre es agradable escuchar la voz y la música de Paul Simon. Un buen disco.
Couple classics ; paranoia blues has a couple interesting versions, never heard it before.
Lots of great riffs on this one. Quick easy listen overall.
A collection of different instruments kept this interesting and fun enough to break the traditional folk sound that I would associate with Paul Simon. His story telling is exactly what I enjoy about his music but some of the slower stuff doesn't manage to hold my attention all the way through. Duncan and Me and Julio Down By The School Yard are some of my favorites on here. Overall a solid album with good storytelling.
More mellower than I thought. More funky than anticipated. Excellent finger picking. Musically very clean well recorded
Of course love Me & Julio Down by the School Yard but I found some other Paul Simon songs I liked and learned a bit about him too!
Good stuff
Very beautiful work in music and lyrics. The acoustical guitar work one this album is amazing.
Another gorgeous record by Paul Simon - impeccably produced - just the perfect length and great great songs. I don’t know how I passed over Paul Simon for so many years but he’s been a delightful discovery to me. It’s not 5 stars by a hair - because it’s not his best record - so I’m being very unfair here.
Good album with some absolute classics. Paranoia blues is a favourite. His blues stuff in general is my favourite. A little rough around the edges in places, from a time where not everything was so polished (and an early album for him too). Can see the inspiration of other artists in his style. Listened at the gym Listening environment: 4/5 Album: 4/5
Many favorites, a few masterpieces.
Nice one, good Sound and easy to listen.
I like the vibe, chill but with emotions and tells a story
Enjoyed
a classic one
What I expected from a Paul Simon album. Very nice first half, a bit worse second half. Stand-out: Mother and Child Reunion
A gem I didn't remember.
Sure I've listened to Simon and Garfunkle and even Graceland by Paul Simon. Mom used to have the cassette tape. But only to that extent on Paul Simon. I was surprised to hear a reggae beat on the first track here Mother and Child Reunion. What a fitting track, since I was thinking about mom with this artis. The acoustic guitar is nice on the second track AND it has what sound like Andean flutes! I like this so far. The words are good too. Oh I guess I'd heard Me and Julio Down by the Schoolyard. I really enjoyed this album. 4 stars!
Classic
He's not just another singer-songwriter, he's Paul freaking Simon.
what a butthole 9/10
Onverwachts top
Enjoyed this far more than I'd expected, nicely chilled and mellow,. Great album. (I still can't work out why I had such low expectations.)
A bit too folky for my tastes, but there are some undisputable killer mic-drop tracks on here. It's no Bridge Over Troubled Water, but it is also less twee than that.
Hadn't listened to this album before. Quite enjoyed it, pleasant, mellow and relaxed. Me And Julio Down By The Schoolyard is a highlight!
A good album with a variety of types of songs. Couple of dud songs for me, but enjoyed the album as a whole. When he’s on form he smashes it out the park.
Lovely
enjoyable folky
I wonder what Garfunkel is up to
At first it seemed like Simon’s songs were lacking without the addition of his former partner backing him, but as I listened more, the songs on here seem to draw from many aspects of Simon’s creativity, making this just as, if not more enjoyable all the way through than many of Simon & Garfunkel’s albums.
A very mellow album, that will probably lead to me listening to Simon & Garfunkel. Need to digest the lyrics more! 4/5 on first listen. Also rating these on RYM.
This was a really pleasant listen.
過渡期といえる本作ならではの味わい深さがある。
This must have been a liberating album for Simon, writing and performing whatever he wanted and just for himself, expanding on the sounds we knew from Simon and Garfunkel. Simon was bound for success no matter what context he was in as he was such an excellent performer and song writer. Most of this album was new to me as I've only listened to Simon's greatest hits and it was an enjoyable listen. If I knew nothing of his work and was hearing this for the first time I would want to hear more.
This album is good Not great I want to give 3.5 but I cannot so I’ll be nice I think Paul Simon is a good album it’s just hard because his other stuff is really good and that’s my comparison point I think Graceland is one of the greatest albums ever made This is still good though
The acoustic guitar is great More of my style of music Top tracks: Me and Julio Down by the Schoolyard, Peace Like a River, Hobo’s Blues, Paranoia Blues
A beautiful piece of work. A real melting pot of cultures and ideas. His lyricism and tone effortlessly portrays snapshots of life and captures vignettes of daily life. The lack of dynamic left it a bit flat as a cohesive work, but it thrilled none the less. Solid.
Honestly not a lot I can say about the album. It’s solid. Pretty much what you would expect from Paul Simon. I enjoyed it and would listen to it again. Favourite track Mother and Child Reunion or either of the Blues on the album.
I like it
it was easy to get through. me and julio down by the school yard is something my spanish teacher in high school would say. so it was nice to know where that came from. i would listen again.
A solid folk effort from one of America's truly great songwriters. As an occasional Simon listener generally but a stalwart evangelist of Graceland as a top five album and The Boxer as a contender for Greatest American Song, it's no insult when I say that much of it just sounds like a bulk order of 'some Paul Simon'. The mid-record run of Armistice Day/Me and Julio/Peace Like A River is the strongest section for me but it's all worth listening. Even the low points of Paul Simon's songwriting career are worth listening to. The melodic, harmonic, rhythmic, textural, poetic and story elements of his writing are rich, deep and often unexpected. His prime influences seem to be Delta Blues and Tin Pan Alley and those are bright as day, here. Plus, it's a short one. It's not my favorite Simon work, but it's an album that most of us could only dream of writing. Check it out regardless - maybe I'll be your favourite.
Really enjoyed this, and i really didn't think i would.
paul simon's comfort genre is folk, and on the whole, this album is mostly folk! i find myself amazed of the other genres included in "mother and child reunion," but reggae does stand out the most. the reggae element is a great one to use to open the album, but it also makes for a great song. outside of that, this album has so much folk that sometimes it borders on country. folk isn't my typical genre, but gosh does it make for easy listening. the usage of pop in "me and julio down by the schoolyard" lightens the album's load, too. simon's songwriting talents are clear on his first album after simon & garfunkel's breakup. a lot of these songs showcase a vulnerable side to simon, especially revealing songs like "run that body down" or "everything put together falls apart" or "paranoia blues." these songs reveal who simon was in 1971. in the middle of the album, there's "peace like a river" as a semi-hopeful desire for peace, but the final line of "congratulations" is "live together in peace," which definitely brings the album full circle but also suggests what simon deems as most important. 3.5 because the second half wasn't as solid, but i'll round up for good intentions.
This is a nice folk rock album that doesn't overwhelm you with folk! There are hints of Latin and reggae in this album, already hinting at Paul Simon's love for using world music and other cultural sounds in his music. While this was technically his second solo album, it was his first released in the US, and definitely the album that cemented his solo career, showing that he could excel sans Garfunkel. Somewhere between a 3 and 4 for me, but close enough to a 4 that I think it warrants it!
Found a copy of this in the depths of a second hand shop. Cover was parted and the record was filthy dirty but no scratches. It’s Paul Simon and worth a couple of quid so took a chance. After a careful restoration of disc and cover I got to listen to this for the very first time. What I found was a beautiful set of songs from an artist I had never really heard outside of Simon & Garfunkel.
the most paul simon listened to me by far, and it wasn't awful.
A great album that transitions Paul Simon from his partnership into solo work. Sure, not all songs are great and there are some weak parts but it also has some songs that have become a part of the American songbook
Solid music.
Good stuff.
OK Google
Niet heel aandachtig geluisterd moet ik zeggen. Was wel leuk zoals alles van Paul Simon, maar geen Graceland, en ook niet in de buurt van Simon & Garfunkel.
I like Paul Simon and this has just enough hits to make it worth listening to. Lots of different styles and musical traditions here (which has always been a feature of the chap). It's a nice soothing album.
soft mood
Graceland is still my favourite. Anyway, anything Paul Simon does is pure and kind, like the sound from careless childhood.
Dads around the world cant be wrong
4. The amount of different sounds caught me off guard pleasently and bumped it up to a 4. The ending song is also beautiful
- Heard a few Simon & Garfunkel albums before but never any of their solo ones - Surprised by how few of the songs I was already familiar with - Really good album but with a few songs I didn't like as much as some of the others - Fav songs: Me and Julio Down by the Schoolyard, Mother and Child Reunion, Duncan
It's not Graceland but Paul Simon is always incredible. Me and Julio is the highlight but there are a number of great tracks.
Real nice background singing one, enjoyed more than I thought I woulx
Nice album, dude plus guitar, songs all have range, and sound different enough to make it interesting Great car listening and I liked 2 songs on Spotify
Really like Duncan and Me and Julio down by the schoolyard - very good storyteller but not as good as Graceland
Julio and schoolyard. Abby knows it from her dad playing it
Peak Simon, great timbre, musicality without the grating edge of some later albums produced
sheesh
It's real nice. Lovely song-writing. Good instrumentation. It's quite inventive and with varied songs.
Solid album, really feels like parting ways with Art inspired Paul to start exploring different musical concepts that would fully bloom in later albums like Graceland.
"Everything Put Together Falls Apart" is the sad bop of the century.
This was a nice listen, certainly not his best work but I’m never going to talk down about Paul’s particular brand of songwriting and bouncy Folk-ness. There are some pretty good peaks in the song quality here (Mother and Child, Armistice Day, Julio, etc) and while not everything meets that peak (not a huge fan of the Hobo suite towards the end) it’s still an enjoyable trip.