Reviews (page 7 of 14)
Wanted to love this more as some classics on here showcase his writing and singing in finest form
Good vibe. Not my favourite in his voice, but it is a happy album
Lots of "buried treasure" to be found on this short record. A couple of new ones to me are "Duncan" and "Paranoia Blues". I prefer the demo versions, which I assume weren't on the original album.
I've listened to Graceland tens of times, but never actually listened to this album before. And I love Me and Julio. But now I also enjoy Armistice Day.
Not bad, but definitely not my kind of music.
Nice album. Great songwriting, I like the variety of themes treated in the songs. I personally can’t really feel the “jazzy, latin music” influences but that’s probably a me problem. Overall, I liked it, 3,5. Wasn’t familiar with Paul Simon but now I’d like to know more about the buddy he broke up with
Not a huge Paul Simon fan, but this was a good listen.
Weird mismatch of genres
Me and Julio is a fucking great song
I think I find Paul Simon a bit bland. Its a pleasant album to listen to though.
Great album top to bottom. I listened to this a couple times and really enjoyed it. Peace Like a River was a standout amongst many standouts.
Some amazing classics and some really boring stuff
Not my favorite of his solo albums. There are a few good songs but I think this album is him trying to figure it out. Not much really stood out and wasn't really enjoyable.
Diverse influences and some classic tunes
6/10 This was a very nice album. Paul Simon always seems like he’s singing from the heart and there’s nothing bad on this album at all, but there’s also not a lot of songs that would be troubling his ‘best of’ selection in my opinion. Honestly, I feel this is one of those ones that’s quite an odd inclusion on a list like this. It’s not his first album, it’s not even his first debut album (although his first only had a limited release), it doesn’t really do anything that groundbreaking, as far as I can tell, and it’s definitely not his best album. His voice is wonderful, his delivery is excellent and he’s clearly a very good songwriter. I did really enjoy listening to this one, though I still think I’m more likely to pop Graceland or Bridge Over Troubled Water over this if I’m in the mood for some Paul Simon. Glad to have been handed this one on a Monday morning though. Mother and Child Reunion - Nice enough reggae track. I like the melodies and the groove, but it does seem like a bit of a white boy distillation of a relatively new (at the time) music from Jamaican culture. Duncan - This is a more classic Paul Simon cut. I do like the way his vocal melodies move. Though I like it enough, I don’t think it does anything that interesting for a 5 minute song. Everything Put Together Falls Apart - A beautiful little piece of vocal work. Lovely. Run That Body Down - Another really nice track. He has such a great voice and I do like the way his vocals don’t always stick to the expected rhythm with the rest of the track. Armistice Day - Less keen on this one. There are elements that I like about it, but it never really lands on a memorable hook. Me and Julio Down by the Schoolyard - Love this tune. This is the one I knew best from this album beforehand and it really is a standout. Joyful. Peace Like a River - Quite a tonal shift from Julio. Very pretty song with a sombre edge and some really nice guitar parts. Papa Hobo - A pleasant enough song, but it does kind of feel like we’re on a wind-down now. Hobo’s Blues - Jaunty little intermission. Paranoia Blues - A good little bluesy number. Good, but not really standout. Congratulations - A bit of an understated closer. Again, very nice, but it doesn’t really do anything to stand out.
As someone who groaned and whimpered when I saw Paul Simon, I was pleasantly surprised by this one. I think the first two tracks are the best. At the end of the day though with all the songs that followed, I don't feel I would buy this but at least my dislike of his work has abated.
finally some quality music! paul simon should be the golden standard for silly album generation. guitar and song writing that feels like home. let these other artists take a hint
An amazing album by the legendary Paul Simon marked by great storytelling and international influence in his songs. Such a fun album that mixes the upbeat and sad songs flawlessly and done so with the magnificent characters he creates (or maybe they're real people, I don't know) Special credit for Paul shouting out the Maritimes :)
An interesting one.
Some good songs. Some bad songs. I will listen to it again.
I’m a Paul Simon fan but this is probably my least favourite album. This album contains more of his poppy tracks which might be alright for some but personally I like his my folky stuff. There’s enough on it though to give it more than half marks. 3/5 19/6/25
Catchy
He has always put out great stuff from the early Simon & Garfunkel days to Graceland
It's Paul Simon!
3.5
This just doesn’t grab me. I feel like he throws everything at some of the tracks when they would be better if the music was allowed to shine. He tells a good story
Better than Coldplay
Great
I love me some Paul Simon, and this is a pretty fun album.
I like this
Perdón, Paul Simon, pero a esta edad estoy descubriendo que cada uno de tus álbumes me matan de la flojera. Con o sin Garfunkle.
Nothing more magical than a Paul Simon album. The man knew how to right the softies that gave you a hardie
Mother and Child Reunion is my favorite Paul Simon song I think.
My theory is that Paul came out swinging with this one just to make sure that everyone understood HE was the genius in S&G. Every single song is good. Some are fantastic. The playing, the singing, the production. All tip top. This album, Rhymin’ and Graceland are all certified RKH classics. I guess that’s a
nice
Reggae-country-soul? Samtidig litt simon and garfunkel vibes. Holy shit det er paul simon fra simon and garfunkel goddamn
Awesome. Reminds me of my childhood
Альбом не нашла, но когда-то слушала. Примерно знаю его.
Paul Simon parka. Dazzling acoustic work. Funky reggae vibes.
this is the album where i learned paul simon is the same guy as simon and garfunkel. so much makes sense now.
Didn't love it, didn't hate it. Pretty mellow, enjoyed the sound of his voice.
Such a great voice, enjoyed this one.
Good but not his best
I think while this is missing a bit of what made his later work so great, there's still a unique charm and personality that makes this a great listen still to this day. Mostly all of these songs are really great
Good album. I had not heard it before, and only knew a few of the songs going in, so was glad to have been introduced to more of his work. Would listen again.
Mother and Child Reunion: happy vibes, very american, good harmonies 5/10 Duncan: tlou vibes. storyline 9/10 Everything Put Together Falls Apart: cute. lyrics. 9/10 Run That Body Down: same but boring 5/10 Armistice Day: same but happier 6/10 Me and Julio Down by the Schoolyard: very happy song. cute title. 6.5/10 Peace Like a River: same vibes 5/10 Papa Hobo: cutesy and family. 5.75/10 Hobo's Blues: something different. 3.5/10 Paranoia Blues: don't like it tbh. 1/10 Congratulations: cool and chill 5.75/10
Meh, it's a popular album with women and Manhattanites. Not really my style but I'll give it props for it's appeal to others.
Not bad, but not one that lives up to his other works in my view.
A classical album.
first paul simon solo album, unsurprisingly it’s rlly damn good lol
Oldie but Goodie. Like “Me and Julio” ✌🏻
Enjoyable folky honky tonk
I was gonna say, It kinda reminds me of Simon and Garfunkel... and then I looked up Paul Simon. He was not sobre when he wrote "Everything Put Together Falls Apart". Or maybe he just didn't want to be. He sure do be rambli'n. 2,5/5
Look, I’ll respect Paul Simon for his place in the history of American Music. But that doesn’t mean I have to enjoy listening to him.
Very familiar even though I’ve only heard a couple of these tracks before. Not sure if it would have an impact today. Was not expecting the John Denver track at the end - was that on the album?
Banger, easy 4, not many notes. Wasn’t listening super closely though and was walking around my beautiful neighborhood having a wonderful day so hard to be objective
Paul Simon has a special place to me because it was my first Real concert. As a 9 year old kid I remember his white sneakers and how short Paul is. I also remember being completely immersed in his sound and loving every second of that show. This album is something I was not as familiar with, and I really like being exposed to it, makes me want to go album by album through his whole solo career. I especially was drawn to the first track (mother and child reunion) with the reggae feel, and the more bring you down to earth songs of track 3 and 4. I also was drawn into Paranoia Blues, thinking that would make a great cover for a more ruckus band.
🥺
It's an actual fun listening experience! The texts are more or less basic, but the instrumental and techniques... Feels like Paul Simon wanted to mix up all the inspiration he got in the streets and mashed it up into an album. A quite positive surprise!
5 (or 6?)/1001. I used to own two LP copies of this one, the other one I probably got either from my mom or sister, and the other I bought because I remembered how good this was, not remembering I already owned it. For me this is an album one can put on any time there is a moment not to know what to play. It sounds really good on the background, but perhaps now giving a dedicated listen reveals a bit of inconsistency or I don't know what, something missing?. The songs are strong and musicians great, and I still love it. There are some albums between this and Graceland which I've never heard (not to mention stuff after that one), so perhaps I will dig into those at some point.
So lovely
Very good album. A mix of blues an some Latin flavors?
Snoozefest.
Bright energy, lots of positivity and fortitude. A mainly relaxing listen
An album of great balance, lovely blend of up beat catchy songs and slower blues/folks songs, Paul is one of the great musicians of his time, a great singer, a great songwriter of poetic storytelling songs, and a great ear for melody backed by his guitar playing. An album that I'll come back to for sure
gostei do instrumental, tirando isso... quem for da época/região deve gostar, mas não foi pra mim. prefiro um modão do brasil mesmo
Gave Graceland such a low score because he appropriated South African music but in its own right, it's a very solid album and I do regret rating it that way. Only had that thought after listening to this record, shows so much craft and artistry.
First ska like song is a little odd. Duncan is a classic 60s Simon and Garfunkel type track. The next couple of tracks are pretty good as well. Other than the first track, the album starts off pretty strong, and mostly stays strong. I'm not sure I'd go back and listen to it a bunch, but I'm sure Paul Simon fans would love it. Maybe I'll throw some of this stuff on a playlist.
Chilliges Album, aber keins was mich mitgerissen hat
Angenehme Stimme und nette Melodien und Texte, aber haut mich nicht so sehr vom Hocker.
Sehe es wie die anderen. Nette Sounds, aber nichts was im Gedächtnis bleibt
Dad- 7 Mom- 9.5 Mike- NA Lori- 7 Michael- 9 Miles- 7 Cole- 3 Avg- 7.08
Some great stuff. But we’ve had enough of Paul Simon.
One of the surprising side-effects of this 1001 albums project has been my growing and active dislike of Paul Simon. Previously, I thought he was OK -- he wrote a bunch of pretty memorable songs both with S&G and solo (showcased on his appearance on the Muppet Show, a formative childhood influence for me), and he did occasional cameos in movies and Graceland was a great album. Ric Albano in Classic Rock Reviews wrote: "You can say what you will about Simon, you can never call him unoriginal." Well, actually, I can. I think he is an annoying and pretentious narcissist and unrepentant serial plagiarist, building his career through a form of musical colonialism. Critics may say "Mother and Child Reunion is the first song to bring reggae to America" which almost implies that reggae didn't exist before Paul Simon turned up at the Kingston recording studio. This is clearly bullshit. He made a career out of travelling the world and using local musicians to add colour and life up his own soporific folk numbers. He didn't start with this record, and he certainly didn't stop. It's his modus operandi. Don't get me wrong, he can craft a pretty tune and a clever lyric. But having sat through half a dozen of his records, I am not inclined to give him a pass based on a few pretty tunes.
Started off absolutely five stars and maybe dropped a little by the end, but full of good stuff. Great writing, great playing, amazing vocals.
Favorite songs: Me and Julio Down by the Schoolyard, Duncan, Paranoia Blues, Peace Like a River Least favorite songs: Everything Put Together Falls Apart 4/5
6.5/10. I understand the influence of this album. I love songs like Mother and Child Reunion and Duncan but if I'm listening to a singer song writer album I'd go for something else. Still a good album.
I didn’t give this my full attention. Needs another listen. Knocking off a star for the zampoña.
Only decent song on here was Me and Julio Down by the Schoolyard, and even that is pretty overrated in my opinion. I guess there’s no art without Garfunkel
Good stuff as always. Maybe need a few harmonies from Garfunkel though. Simpsons: Yes
Good stuff
More Paul... To be fair I liked this one more than the last, far more stripped back, mostly just him and his guitar. Still the same wry jaunty style, guess that is what he does. Can't remember a particular track standing out but nothing annoyed me so would be fine to have on in the background. 2.5.
More enjoyable than Hearts and Bones. The demo versions on the extended edition of Me and Julio Down by the Schoolyard and Paranoia Blues were better than those on the original release - more simple and bluesy. Fantastic guitarist, his melancholy songs are often much better than the jaunty ones. Big Simon and Garfunkel fan. Medium Paul Simon fan.
2 Paul Simon albums in 2 weeks or so is too many Paul Simon albums for me. Again, very safe and nice enough, but just not that interesting.... Crank it up to 11 Paul! Yeah it's fine, but won't be rushing back 2.5
This album is way better than Graceland which I found too much all over the place. It has those nice excursions in other genres but it doesn't try to hard and focuses on Simon as a singer, songwriter and player.
3/5
bom pra ouvir em um dia frio de outono
Je me suis fait chier, deso polo
On voit qui était le parolier de Simon and Garfunkel. J'ai kiffé, c'est bien arrangé et bien écrit.
Trop lisse et pas asser marquant.
très écoutable, mais rien de transcendant (tel le nombre racine de 2 je crois ou une histoire comme ça je sais pas je préfère la méthode des éléments finis en dimension 2)
Feels like modern singer songwriter slop but it's made back in 1972.
Huh, apparently "signer-songwriter" doesn't mean depressed bore. Someone should let the others know. Light-hearted, gently warm and soft, with some hits.
Really good album. Not quite at the level of his work with S&G but very close
I was excited for this, knowing only Mother and Child Reunion and Me and Julio, but honestly none of the others have really jumped out to me the way those two do. I enjoy the interesting mix of the sounds, and all the songs are good, but I think I'm just picky about ballads. I do like the folk-ier parts, and I feel like the album picks up as it leans into those toward the end
Me like it, just the right amount of softness for me
god I love you Mr. Simon. short kings always prevail
Pst "Me and Julio Down by the Schoolyard" is a gay tragedy
Mellow
9/10. Fantastisk bra.
Not bad. I knew what to expect from Paul Simon. It's pretty standard singer-songwriter stuff from the 70's. "Congratulations" at the end, like "Hey, good job, you made it through" was kind of funny. My Rating: 3/5
No stand outs for me
Great songs, musically great, songwriting is great. The more I listened the more I enjoyed it.
I will always remember Me and Julio.. during The Royal Tannibaums
relaxing album, good for working in the background. 4/5
Paul Simon by Paul Simon by Paul Simon by Paul Simon by Paul Simon by Paul Simon by Paul Simon by Paul Simon by Paul Simon by Paul Simon by Paul Simon by Paul Simon by Paul Simon by Paul Simon by Paul Simon by Paul Simon by Paul Simon by Paul Simon by Paul Simon by Paul Simon by Paul Simon by Paul Simon by Paul Simon by Paul Simon by
In general, I really can't stand the "storyteller with an acoustic guitar" genre. Paul Simon is no exception. Bores me to tears. Opening up with the whitest reggae imaginable at least gave me a good laugh. One point because Julio is a damn good song... album could've just been a single.
garfunkle was the talent
Jää aika vaisuksi, puolustaako paikkaansa listalla vain Simonin hymistelytaituruudella ja orgaanisilla kompeilla?
En tavoita Julio-biisin hittiyttä, mutta Mother and Child Reunion ja Peace Like a River ovat vaikuttavia kappaleita. Lisäksi artistin pysäyttävä kyky muovata musiikkia oman tahtonsa mukaan kompensoi hänen pehmeää vallattomuuttaan. En enää muista kaikkea B-puolelta, mutta saattaisin kuunnella levyn (taas) uudelleen muistuttaakseni itseäni.
There are some classic songs on this album. But the rest are mediocre. One pretty good song is structured too much like “The Boxer” from his S & G days — it sounds like he’s just working with a good formula to churn out modern Odysseys. Elsewhere, Simon falls into his habit of recording songs he really should have left behind or should have worked on to make them more compelling. The great songs are great, but a few great songs doesn’t justify a four for the whole album. Also, in comparison to his albums that have brilliant songwriting throughout (Bridge Over Troubled Water; Graceland), this album is just a 3.
Lovely, feels very folky and like it's being sung while you sit around a campfire in a dark, chilly forest, especially when those flutes come out in Duncan (did get a laugh from the "ooh-wee" he makes as it sounds exactly like Rick & Morty). I'd say I enjoyed the music, but I didn't really enjoy the lyrics that much on the whole. I liked how personal and intimate it felt, hence the campfire visual, like in Everything Put Together Falls Apart where he turns away from the microphone to scratch his face. You can hear his facial hair moving with the scratches as he keeps singing before turning back. Me and Julio has some deliciously strange noises going in the background of the second half, and very catchy lyrics. Each song was distinct and defined, they each had their own character. I get very fatigued by albums where after 3 listens you're still like, which track was that again? How did it go? And it's just a blur of noise - this album was not like that. This album feels more "story book" than "diary", if that makes sense. He's telling you stories, not sharing his feelings. Unfortunately I didn't really like most of the stories. Mothers, hobos (twice) and some guy named Duncan listening to people have sex in a hotel room then leaving his fishing boat to go live in New England, or something? At least they were palatable enough to listen to. I would say that's an apt word - this album is like a McVities Digestive biscuit of the music world; technically edible, perfectly satisfying, probably not really anyone's favourite but also kind of hard to hate, just a bit boring too often, but also so specific in composition you wonder who the target audience is. Most / Least Favourite Track(s): Run That Body Down for substance, Me and Julio for style / Armistice Day Rating: 3
I had taken a break from the project and I had started listening to this record several times before taking my break. So I actually thought this sound would not appeal to me but turns out if you try listening to A Mother And Child Reunion a few times you suddenly start digging it and also recognize the funniness in Duncan. I think occasionally taking a break saves you from listener‘s fatigue. This was a quiet record with a good sense of humor and mischievousness. I also liked the instrumentation of many songs, especially Armistice Day.
This album doesn't seem to know what it wants to be, but it's got some good stuff.
Day497 - who needs a garfunkel
I like Paul Simon … but I often don’t like Paul Simon albums. This is a perfect example of why - this has one of my favourite songs of all time, Me and Julio, and a couple of other good tunes, but most of the album is inconsequential filler. As such, this can only ever be a mid-quality score.
Excellent songwriting, beautiful melodies, poetic lyrics. Stylistically, it's a little scattered, as Simon explores some new sounds. His vocal range is limited and not quite up to the job of being the lead, but his sincerity makes up for a lot.
The Chipmunks splitting was the best divine intervention
What an album. One of the best acoustic albums I've heard for a long time. Great acoustic guitar playing combined with beautiful voice and we'll get this album. I liked it. Got nothing much else to say. I'm guessing he's pretty influential too and this being his debut album really shows his talent. So much better than Adele. Songs saved: 7/11(I'm not counting demos and unreleased versions)
Great album
Didn’t really give this the listens it deserved. Making dinner kids talking over each other at me at etc. my impressions are that it starts strong and then loses my interest. I think maybe with more attention there may be something there.Also, I think it’s probably better than bookends. I have always thought it was weird. How prominent that Parka was on the cover.
fun, dynamic album. always has a new sound, fresh hook, or clever turn of phrase in his back pocket.
I have failed you all. Fell off on this one. I'll need to pull a double header today. Since it's Paul Simon and I've heard this record....a....bunch, Gonna give it a 4. Don't hate me!
I like how Paul Simon integrates so many different sounds from different types of music, from different places. He has a way of making everything his own. paul is ez listenin with a soul
I’m a huge fan of Simon & Garfunkel but wasn’t super familiar with Paul Simon’s solo career outside a few hits (“Me And Julio”, “Kodachrome”, “Mother And Child Reunion”, and “50 Ways To Leave Your Lover”) I loved this album, the opener “Mother And Child Reunion” is fantastic and the next several tracks are great. “Paranoia Blues” is also really good and I’ve always loved “Me And Julio Down By The Schoolyard” this was good.
Great chill
4/5
Klare meg fint uten
As perfect now as it was then.
Wasn't my fav lowkey
Very catchy tunes. Nothing really stood out to me though.
Paul Simon is the best. In this album he lends his gentle flavour to loads of different genres from blues to tropicalia via reggae, soul music, country and folk (medieval and contemporary), successfully terraforming them all into something more Paul Simony. Nothing less than a five.
Great album. Some if the acoustic playing reminded me of Days of the New
Some good songs on here, like "Duncan," "Armistice Day" and "Paranoia Blues". But didn't grasp me, really.
Pretty good but nothing remarkable. Me and Julio, Mother and Child are both classics and all the rest passed me by in a vibe of easy listening. It's no Graceland. 10/05/25
Not my favourite PS album. Wonderful vocals and some great songs but some songs a bit too whimsical. Run That Body Down is my favourite track.
Excellent album.
boh va beh, almeno va in fretta
Brilliant
I enjoyed this album a bit, but tbh, most of the songs are pretty mid
nice, singer-songwriter tunes
Me and Julio did blow down by the school yard. Super pleasing voice. Consistent theme that does not get repetitive. Kind of a joy to listen to even if I have heard he is a little asshole. 7/10
A surprisingly good album. Of course I know Paul Simon, but I associated him more with music like you hear in Graceland or with Art Garfunkel. His music in these are ok but for nothing special. This, though, I found quite nice.
Bon c'est de la folk, c'est bien mais sans plus
Highlights: "Mother and Child Reunion;" "Me and Julio Down by the Schoolyard." This is the third Paul Simon or Simon & Garfunkel thing to come up here and at this point I'm starting to feel like I can say I enjoy Paul Simon.
2/5, background music nothing special. Not my genre
Iisiä menoa, ehkä liiankin. Tuttu levy mutta tällä kertaa kuuntelin ihan mielellään kokonaan.
This one checks all the boxes in my list. It's entertaining, calm, clever, bluesy and a great musical companion. Very personal !
Es un álbum muy tranquilo. Excelente producción musical. Algún día tendré tiempo para realmente disfrutar cada nota de este hermoso disco
Good album
I was surprised at how much I liked this.
It was ok
если б я нашел эту пластинку в хижине у озера в штате монтана, я бы ее с удовольствием слушал
Brilliant. First album I ever bought.
Great singing
Although not a huge Paul Simon fan, I did enjoy this more than I expected. Fun travel into areas not previously explored while paired with Garfunkel.
It was fine. Love Paul Simon but I can't say this is his best work.
I want to be out on Paul Simon bc he seems like an incredibly annoying guy who thinks he’s funnier than he is and holds a grudge. But unfortunately he’s got the goods. What can you do? Sidenote: I like to imagine “Hobo’s Blues” was Simon’s attempt at getting anti-rockist, Woody Allen’s attention, which eventually leads him to being cast in Annie Hall 5 years later.
nope!
Most of this was new to me (well everything besides Me and Julio) and it was an unexpected delight. Never heard him so stripped down, and he's a beast on guitar. Also I had no idea that Gatorade was ubiquitous enough in 1972 to be mentioned in a song - f'ing fascinating.
Meh
Not quite the genre I listen to but I can see why other people enjoy it.
It was very good. I liked the style of the music very much and I liked almost every track
Me and Julio Down by the Schoolyard is exactly the kind of upbeat tune you need to hear on a cloudy Monday morning. Paul Simon is a hell of a songwriter.
Decent album
Listening to this was a warm hug.
Eh. Me and Julio down by the schoolyard is nostalgic for me because of the tenonbombs soundtrack.
Paul Simon is always great.
This is an amazing album. I knew the big hit off this album very well. So I wasn’t expecting a lot other than that one hit carrying the rest of the album (like a lot of albums on this list) but I was pleasantly surprised. The album is incredibly short which is always a positive for me. There’s a good amount of variety. Honestly I really love this album and I had no idea this album was so solid. I don’t say this lightly, but this is also a no skip album, which is extremely rare but even the demos and unreleased music that was included in the version of this album I listened to were no skips. In fact the unreleased version of Paranoia Blues is my favorite version of that song. Seriously go find a hammock on a nice day with some shade and put this album on. Maybe sip a whiskey sour with it, just a suggestion.
Nothing says I'm no longer part of a musical duo than posting a close-up of your mug in a parka as the album cover. This is Simon publicly announcing his new direction as a solo artist, and it couldn't be clearer from the reggae inspired beats of the opening track 'Mother and Child Reunion', just one of his legacy hits. The rest of the album is filled with pep and playful lyrics. There's no doubt this continues to forge the path of a masterful storyteller with music that forecasts the international flavor that would in fuse his music throughout his career.
classic, very good
I have never listened to an entire Paul Simon album before. Sometimes his Simon-fication of popular music from different countries is tiresome to me. However, listening to a full album there was much more good than bad. I really liked the artists he featured and his lyrics are top notch
super fun upbeat singer-songwriter jams. you can hear him starting to gather ideas and influences for his later records here. it's almost like proto-graceland.
i think it's nice but i cannot get the hype
Also no sauce.
Very listenable, enjoyable record. Really simple stripped back tracks. Me and Julio down by the schoolyard was such a standout track from my childhood. I also didn’t realize that this is where kid cudi 59 ways to make a record sample came from.
Nice instrumentals easy to listen too
I feel terrible doing this, but it’s a three for me on a first listen. I’m big Simon and Garfunkel fan and respect Simon’s songwriting and lyricism. But this just struck me today as a little soft and goofy to me. There were flashes of greatness and for that, it’s a 3. I’ll listen again.
An OK, meh, album. Of course Me and Julio is a bop but most of the other tracks are entirely forgettable. I get why Hearts & Bones and Graceland are on this list, but this album is certainly one too many. 2/5
3.0 - Ok
Paul Simon continues to baffle me. Why is a song set in New England accompanied by Peruvian flutes. Lots of Incan Pentecostals? Also the Red Wings were notoriously shitty when this album was written so like. Hell of a hockey team? Buddy.
2 classics
Nothing really grabbed me
Decent stuff, wistful but a little twee - like, I am finding, many of this eras singer-songwriters. Lacks a couple of killer songs that the S&G era albums would have.
Good discovery. Would have bypassed if not for 1001
a very good surprise, listened to it twice.
7/10 I have been on a big singer-songwriter kick lately so maybe I am just a bit harsh here. Simon is better with Garfunkel. He needs the foil I think. This was fine and had a great song or two but it isn't Jim Croce, James Taylor, and definitely not Carole King. Favorite song: Julio
Enjoyable
Tråk
Great album!
Paul Simon's self-titled debut solo album represents a significant departure in both lyrics and sonic exploration compared to the folk-rock works he created with his former partner, Art Garfunkel. His strong songwriting skills continue to shine as he delves into a variety of global musical styles, incorporating elements of jazz, blues, reggae, and South America and Africa rhythms. Simon's impressive guitar work and vocals are complemented by a diverse array of musicians, resulting in a collection of songs that are both varied and engaging. The album opens with "Mother and Child Reunion," a reggae-infused track that clearly demonstrates Simon's desire to broaden his musical palate. Other notable songs include "Me and Julio Down by the Schoolyard," which features playful whistling, the gentle acoustic piece "Duncan" with its flute solo, and the jazz saxophone "Run That Body Down." The songs are a blend of whimsy and melancholy, featuring both tranquil melodies and upbeat, tie-tapping tunes. This album is clearly a precursor to his later critically acclaimed album "Graceland" (1986). Overall, it is a highly enjoyable album.
Something about his melodies
good
Lovely, gentle album. Favorites: Duncan, Peace Like a River
i like it
Could only make it through a couple of songs. It was non offensive, I could have died not hearing this album and would have had a satisfied mind.
I have no patience for Paul Simon. His music is always too cute by half. Very well played, but it always comes across for me as smug and happy with itself. I find it boring and obnoxious mostly.
The other Paul. I much prefer Paul Simon’s solo work to his band stuff. You can feel early signs of the influence he’s had from African music on this release (before really ramping it up for Graceland), but it still has a rooting in his early folk period. This is a great little album.
Aside from the two big hits from this album I don’t find this is the best Paul Simon album. I’m not sure if there are others of him solo on this list but if this is on there should be. Still enjoyable though because of the singer/ songwriter skill of Paul Simon.
This was pretty ignorable. It felt kind of like a folk version of children's songs. I feel like I needed to listen to the lyrics better to like this, but I wasn't drawn into the music.
Loved it I love Paul Simon great album
Didn’t love this album. Stripped entirely of the harmonies of Simon and Garfunkel, you’re left with just the songs of Paul Simon. An excellent songwriter but the album felt poorly produced
Really enjoyed, interesting and catchy, fairly diverse album from a not-favourite artist.
Paul Simon isn't always my taste, so most of this album I find just okay. "Me And Julio Down By the Schoolyard" and "Paranoia Blues" rule though, which saves it.
não é muito minha vibe, escutei 6 e não curti muito, mas reconheço a importância
Good Paul Simon but not as much personality as either the earlier S&G works or the later Graceland era. Me & Julio is such a classic though, I almost want to round this up to 4. 3.5
Score one for moms music, only drags a couple times
sure was paul simon. i think i enjoy the songs i like more when not all back to back, but it wasn't the most strained listen i've had. 3.5
the mama [loc: rolling out of bed]: it's against the law me and Julio [loc: down by the schoolyard]: 😱
8/10
No suena mal, me guardé «Me and Julio Down by the Schoolyard», pero no le presté mucha atención. Como últimamente no estoy muy contento con los álbumes que estoy escuchando le voy a dar 3 estrellas solo por no aburrirme.
Not my favorite solo album of Paul Simon's but he can do now wrong!
Fun album, good vibes
Obviously 5 stars
I've always like this album.
nice album nice vibe. paar lieder gliket. aber wöri jez glaub eher als einzelni songs lose ned als album. paari hani au gar ned gfühlt.
A real chillers album. Probably my favorite Paul Simon solo album but I do need to relisten to "Graceland" before I can say for sure. Favorite track: Run That Body Down
Easy listen!
There's only one like Paul Simon isn't there? Not my favourite album of his but some great stuff.
Ah, white reggae. The music no one ever needed. This first song is already an inauspicious start to the record. The rest of the songs are pretty bland vanilla jams. Would not revisit, even though I listened to the whole album. Thus it would garner a 1.5 properly. Better than Kid Rock, so I guess it gets a 2.
Paul Simon is one of those incredible artists that I’m really grateful to exist at a time when I can hear his music whenever I want. This album has such a diverse variety of styles and sounds, but Paul’s voice keeps grounded in one incredible vibe. His songwriting is immaculate, and lyrically this album is simply fantastic. Musically everything is played perfectly, no instrument feels overstated or too aggressive in the mix either. This isn’t my favourite Paul Simon record, but it’s still an easy 5*.
Paul Simon is always a welcome sight, especially on a day when i have a long drive. This isn’t my favorite album of his but it’s still a truly fantastic piece of work. The musical styling is really interesting and varied and fun throughout the album while never fighting for your attention with the masterful storytelling in the lyrics. This album provides a lot of evidence to my firm belief that Paul Simon is one of the greatest songwriters of our lifetime, probably of all time. He is a national treasure and must be defended at all costs.
nostalgic delight
some gems and some middling dross worthy of a Dr waiting room
let me do half stars please good album for the morning! not my cup of tea though
3/5
Good, Americana isn't my personal vibe
meh. didn't really enjoy it much. not entirely sure why, just a bit ... normal.
Great album. Varied and interesting.
Discography listened in march 2025, shows the mastery of an american singer songwriter
I like folk music, but I just could not get in to this.
This one went to different places tonally, but still great.
Not my cup of tee, but the guy is very good in general
Great one
bruh, the bs with his friend was better
Some very good tunes. Classic Paul Simon. Basically Jimmy Buffet for literate types and college grads. Good mix of styles, from some blues to New Orleans zydeco, jazz, etc. Folks but not folk. Very "American" music.
Not super familiar with Simon (or Garfunkel honestly). Thought the album started strong with Mother and Son Reunion and Duncan, but never quite hit those highs again. Enjoyable enough, would listen to more of Simon’s work.
One of the best singer-songwriter albums I've heard, but somehow they all cap at 3.5/5.
Paul Simon’s great but not my fav album of his. As always, insane lyrics
A fun listen. Me and Julio is a classic and the rest of the album is great as well. Peak Paul Simon IMO.
好聽
extremely good record
I've never been a huge fan of Simon &/or Garfunkel and this album is no different. Paul's a pretty good songwriter but his voice and delivery are not enjoyable to listen to. Even a song like "Me and Julio down by the Schoolyard" is hard to listen to because of his voice. But if you can get past that it's an ok album I suppose 5/10 Favourite: Armistice Day Least Favourite: Mother and Child Reunion
From the limp half baked attempt at reggae on the starting track, Paul Simon tries to give a wordy sophistication that fails the longer it goes on. As for 'me and Julio', mediocre tune to mysterious words, what was he thinking, trying to be a second hand Bob Dylan, pathetic. Desperately trying to prove he is more than just half a famous duo, this sounds uninspired and toe curling embarrassing. Like a book that promises intrigue and delivers endless filler. If you have this on vinyl kindly scratch so that no one is subjected to this mess. As for the picture on the album... ugg, just burn it. Should have been number 1002 out of 1001 albums.
Proper campfire music.
Not a negative second.
I always find Mr Simon very earnest and self important. Start of the record it was a 2, gradually edged up.
I listened to Aaliyah instead it was good
7.5/10 really enjoyable and smooth tracks a little repetitive
I've always loved this kind of music and this album is no exception. However some tracks are quite "bland", they really don't try anything special. 3.7
This album is alright. I'm less into Paul Simon's "sensitive poet" deal than I am his endless curiosity for other genres. I don't think he's ever hit the right balance for an album aside for Graceland, however. Fans of either sides of Simon will find takeaways here but the issue is that it doesn't flow together at all. There's plenty of solid material to read literature and pine over long lost loves to or whatever people do with this stuff. On the other hand, there is Me and Julio Down By the Schoolyard, which is a song about... I don't know and Simon doesn't either.. the mama pajama and the Queen of Corona I guess. There's some vague crime committed and it's a big problem I suppose but it's funky as shit and there's a whistle solo so now it's timeless. There's also the sturdy reggae track Mother and Child Reunion which was inspired by Jimmy Cliff and recorded with Cliff and company in Jamaica, explaining just how authentically Jamaican this track sounds. I just wish Simon would do more whole albums of shit like this, I'd love it. Either way this album gets knocked down for the lack of balance more than my subjective irk at it's lack of grooves. I could probably be bothered to get in the mindset for his lower key songs if I weren't wildly distracted by Me and fucking Julio doing God knows what Down By the Schoolyard I mean come on. What a jam.
Folk Rock, middle of the road. Fine, won't return
Paul Simon is comfort.
I wanted to rate this 4. I went back and listened, and couldn't figure out which songs made me want to rate it so highly - but I still want to give it that rating, somehow. The only track I don't like is "Me and Julio".
I saw this and I sighed, because I really just don't care about solo Paul Simon. I have never heard of this album nor does the cover look familiar. All that being said this album starts out strong. The first 2 songs were good and completely different from each other. After that the style of the songs continue to change, i just don't like the next 2 or last 2 as much. But I'm amazed I liked it at all. 3
enjoyable 👍
Stand out tracks: Duncan, Hobo Blues and Paranoia Blues (both versions) Listens: at least 4 I really enjoy the wind instruments in Duncan. Similarly, the string instruments in Hobo Blues. It's a short and sweet little ditty. The best ones are.
Nice calm voice, clear lyrics. Enjoyable time, but only 'julio and me down by the school yard' is the only song I'll remember as Paul Simon
Artful, melodic folk rock/pop music.
The instrumentation is really pleasant.
This is the first solo album released in the U.S. after Paul Simon and Art Garfunkel's breakup. It's definitely different from their duet stuff. I've never been a huge fan of Paul Simon, but have always had some appreciation for S&G. Their harmonizing works well together and feels missing in Simon's solo work. I still love Me and Julio Down by the Schoolyard though. Paranoia Blues is pretty fun, too.
1st released album s/p S&G Pet favs: Armistice Day; Peace Like a River-- guitar playing is beautiful on both. Well conceived album that flows along really well. And I'm not particularly fond of folk music.
One of my very favorite albums ever.
If course this is wonderful. It's a special guy under circumstances that couldn't have been better to strike gold with.
Its an alright folk acousticy album, nothing crazy but nothing bad either.
Pretty good, but a bit underwhelming
Some great songs on here but I miss Garfunkel
I've not heard a lot of Simon and Garfunkel but I've not been keen on what I have so I didn't have high expectations. This is some decent folk, nothing mindblowing. It's not fully grabbing me, I'm not that keen to return to it after a couple of listens. It's more diverse than I expected though so I'll give it that Run That Body Down is nice, reminds me of Pink Floyd's Meddle a bit. Armistice Day kind of reminds me of Nick Drake but I'm not entirely sure why. I really like the twangy guitar playing on Peace Like a River Decent, could grow on me if I gave it another chance Hoping for something not from the 70s tomorrow Highlights: Run That Body Down, Peace Like a River, Armistice Day
Meh... It starts extremely promising, but then just feels like something I really need to be in the right mood for. So, on a different day, this might get a different score... but for today it's meh
Decent, a bit too folky for me but there are some parts I enjoyed. When it starts to sound like bob dylan that’s when I dip out a bit but overall I thought it was okay 6/10
Comfy listening, and if I was more into it I bet there would be interesting lyrics.
Didn't connect to this on the first listen but after a few more I really started to pick up on a lot of the subtleties of the record. Fantastic guitar work, charming voice, and beautiful lyrics.
pretty good! 3 skips, has a lot of bangers tho duncan best song
Can see myself as an old man, sitting in my chair listening to this straight through
Paul Simon is not my thing, but this is pleasant enough Best Song: Me and Julio Down by the Schoolyard Rating: 6.0/10 Stars: 3/5
2 - I don’t get the Paul Simon on this one, seems unfinished and pointlessly simple—to the point where any added production improves a track by so much (think: me and Julio down by the schoolyard)
Звук разительно отличается от слушанного ранее альбома 80-х. Это альбом понравился больше. Звучит как-то честнее. А начинается вообще с реггей.
Pleasant enough but not to my taste.
A good album with a couple of classics on it. 4 stars or B+.
I love love love Paul Simon. This was a great first solo album and I probably would give it five stars if the ones that came after we’re not even so much better.
This was nice. Not fantastic, not wonderful, just nice.
Rating: 6/10 I remember this being better the first time I heard it. Some very good songs but a lot of is pretty boring.
Although not of the quality of Graceland, this debut has some true gems and other quite promising tracks. It also offers a wide variety of styles and themes.
One of my favorite artists, but this felt like he was just figuring himself out, like there was a Garfunkel hole in the music that hadn't been filled with straightup simon yet, but I could see where the musical journey started and where it was heading to, highly liked album, not a loved it album.
Me and Julio alone is enough for a four star rating. The rest of the album is decent, although I do feel like a few of the tracks drag a bit.
Solid and quality folk album, nothing stood out to me as very special, but also there is nothing wrong. The melodies are nice and clear, some songs feature great guitar riffs, which I enjoyed. Everything is well made, mixed and mastered, all of the instruments, and the vocals, sound clear and there is a good separation between them. The lyrical themes are easy going and typical of folk music. The album is a nice and easy listen, you can put it on, relax and enjoy the good times.
“Finally, with Garfunkel out of the picture I can releasing as many ‘hobo’ related songs as I want.” - Paul Simon in 1972, probably
The first of Paul Simon's long solo discography shows great promise but I can't help but miss the vocal presence of Art Garfunkel. About "Me and Julio". Is it about drugs or is it gay? It's probably the former, but who knows? Key tracks: Me and Julio Down by the Schoolyard
Paul Simon - Paul Simon Decent chill folk type album coming from someone who was in an iconic band from the 60's. There's really not much here to it other than how nice it feels to listen to it at times, it is incredibly calm to listen but it becomes a flaw, since that sound is consistent and there really isn't much to offer, but it's not bad. Overall though, this is fine. 1.- Mother and Child Reunion = 6/10 2.- Duncan = 6/10 3.- Everything Put Together Falls Apart = 5/10 4.- Run That Body Down = 7/10 5.- Armistice Day = 7/10 6.- Me and Julio Down by the Schoolyard = 7/10 7.- Peace Like a River = 6/10 8.- Papa Hobo = 6/10 9.- Hobo's Blues = 5/10 10.- Paranoia Blues = 4/10 11.- Congratulations = 8/10 FINAL SCORE: 6.1/10
Ok
I wasn't sure what to expect of Paul Simon's solo work but so far I am impressed. A lot of different sounds and genre borrowing here. One song to the next would surprise me. Very enjoyable listen I had while cleaning and reorganizing the pantry. Look forward to more listens.
A few classic Simon tunes right off the bat. Tentatively finding that distinct Simon sound without Art’s harmonies. Experimental on a few tracks. The first steps of an incredible solo career
More than what I expected from this man
Only heard 2 songs from this album before. And honestly? It is quite a good album but a mixed bag. Graceland is miles better. 3/5
Exceptional talent; the album is relatively stripped down but musically dense. Great listen.
Thanks to this challenge, I've learned that I really enjoy Simon & Garfunkle and Paul Simon. Good stuff.
Something about Paul Simon's voice that I find so soothing. Definitely going to have to keep that in mind when the stress levels get too much.
民谣听听还行呢
Some cool stuff on here, with nice songwriting as well, but sonically it just wasn't for me. "It's gonna be a no from me dawg" - Randy Jackson
Honestly, it's not for me. I will admit that some of the musical performances on this album do break the mold from the folk albums on here, but it just doesn't jive with me man.