Reviews (page 9 of 13)
A little too easy listening for me
I enjoyed graceland a lot more
Paul isn’t my vibe by interesting to hear his early sounds
Por uma questão de tempo não consegui ouvir tudo.. é o que é
Not bad, but kinda not my jam.
Etheral schön, ne ganze experience Wish you where here (*****)
Not my jam but solid 3 stars. was never much of a Simon & garfunkel fan anyway
Koselig og melankolsk. Kan funke dette, men blir også litt fort kjedelig
Nice sound, light enjoyment
No private session used for Spotify. I like Paul Simon's music a lot and I impressed with his long and varied career. I listened to this album a couple of times and then listened to other Paul Simon albums throughout the day.
The well known songs are great, but overall the album is a little lackluster.
The self-titled "Paul Simon" album showcases his fantastic songwriting and blend of styles, from folk to reggae. The acoustic guitar creates a pleasant, chill vibe that's enjoyable, but some tracks feel a bit boring and lack the punch of his later work like "Graceland." While the lyrics are interesting and highlight Simon's talent as a solo artist, it doesn’t quite reach the heights I hoped for.
Great singer songwriter, but its just not my thing
Pleasant, with a few familiar favourites.
Some boring songs, some better songs
Excellent album
Fine fine fine.
Dobre folkowe brzmienia, ogółem to mi sie spodobał ten album, ale nie sądze żebym chciał wracać do piosenek.
I really like this album. It's not his best work, but between the songwriting an dthe craftsmanship, Paul Simon is an absolute master of his craft. 7.5/10
Paul on his way to become the greatest songwriter, but not quite there yet.
Some okay sorta folk stuff. Didn’t really engage me much. 3 stars
Mother and child reunion is a great way to start any album. The only issue it sets the bar high and what follows whilst pleasant is far from the same level. The obvious exception to that is Me and Julio Down by the Schoolyard. Other than those two tracks things like Papa Hobo are enjoyable just nothing noteworthy. Hobo’s Blues jointy tune does however put me in mind of a toothpaste advert, which i appreciate is my issue not a comment on the quality of the songwriting
This was fine - fairly middle of the road, easy listening, and nice to have in the background as I faffed about. “Mother and Child Reunion” was a highlight; I loved the reggae vibe of it, and the backing vocals were fab (hello, Cissy Houston). The rest of the album didn’t reach the height of that opening but, like I say, it was fine.
Nice for a morning coffee
Okej album, ali ništa posebno, neki prosjek 3/5, 6/10
Kinda meh compared to his work with Garfunkel.
Prefer the faster-paced songs to the slower ones but overall, a solid record by a gifted singer-songwriter. Favorites: Mother & Child Reunion, Me & Julio Down by the Schoolyard Would I listen to it again: Probably
Not his best, not his worst. Feels like a mid choice to be on this list. Me and Julio is massive though
I love Simon and Garfunkel, but Simon with out Garfunkel just isn't as good.
This isn’t vastly different from Simon abundance Garfunkel’s outpourings, and I don’t suppose there is any reason in should be. It’s very even, and the beat remains fairly consistent throughout. Nothing to get terribly excited about and nothing too terrible. Although I could probably die without being told what it’s like when you have a room next to noisy shaggers! Honestly, does he think this is an unusual experience?? I always feel like Paul Simon makes music that has stay within two parallel lines, and if the music goes outwith those boundaries, the world will cave in. This is a man who doesn’t go over the lines when he colours in. This album lacks innovation and inspiration and Paul Simon will be locked into this groove until Graceland.
Surprisingly nice, just not amazed, Frankly
I have no feelings one way or the other
Es klingt irgendwie genauso wie mit Garfunkel. Ganz nett, wird nach einer Zeit dann aber doch etwas anstrengend. Trotzdem ganz süß.
446/1001
Definitely enjoyable with some classics.
A nice blend of folk styling & pop writing. Sounds a whole lot like his work with Art Garfunkel, which leads me to believe this was a time when Simon was still figuring out his own style. All in all pleasant, but nothing too extraordinary
Very clearly just continuing the sound from Simon and Garfunkel, which is to be expected. Great music to drive to while vaguely listening, paying more attention does not add much to the experience.
Ok album with a couple catchy songs, but a little bland in other spots. Nice to listen too, but nothing that makes me want to revisit anytime soon.
Peaceful and happy. But not really for me.
Tired of people knocking Paul Simon for cultural appropriation. Why didn't I hear this kind of thing about Clapton for I Shot the Sheriff? Or The Clash for Junco Partner, or the Beatles for every song with a sitar? You don't have to like Paul Simon-- I have mixed feelings myself -- but do you have to make it a moral thing?
this was ok!! some nice tracks but nothing that necessarily blew me away. good hosting music imo - a good vibe to be in the background of catching up with friends.
Not bad! Definitely feels like Simon and garfunkel
Overall, this was a very chill album, it was nice having it in the background. I had the first song in my Favouirites but I don't even remember listening to it, so I guess it was a long time ago. Nothing really exciting happened, but it's more of a Just Chilling type of vibe.
Eh, fine. I like Paul Simon and will gladly listen to his music but I can't imagine putting this on on purpose.
Having heard a couple of Simon & Garfunkel albums and not been wowed, loved a few singles, but rank that 'Call Me Al' song as one of humanity's worst atrocities, I didn't have high hopes going in. This is a collection of songs, not all that different from what I expected. Some are nice. Fairy forgettable after a single listen. I can't tell if I'd like it more, or less, with more listens.
Not bad, it's for sure not my thing necessarily but still good music in places.
Pure American pop, prefer him with Garfunkel. Again not sure what this is doing in the top 1000
Todella leppoisa
This isn't unpleasant, it also isn't very interesting, just a nice folk album, with some decent songs and some others easily to forget. 3/5
It's a solid album with some top-notch musicians, a couple of bona fide classic singles, and some interesting ideas and sounds. But overall it's just not that engrossing for some reason, and has a sort of tentative feeling about it. I'm glad I heard it, but probably won't listen again.
P.S.: Later albums are far better
I liked this so much more than my last Paul Simon album, but not as much as the one before that. I guess it falls somewhere between the two Simon & Garfunkel albums I’ve gotten.
7/10 ❤️ : Run That Body Down Duncan Mother and Child Reunion
I don't know if I dislike American folk stuff in general or just Paul Simon. I'm hoping it's the latter. I do admit I was probably too harsh for his last album. I don't know if its just that I'm building up a tolerance to his vocals or I'm still amazed by the great instrumentality, but I put this one higher at a 6.5/10. Favs: Peace Like A River (the guitar is mesmerizing. 10/10); Duncan, Mother and Child Reunion;
Not earth shattering but ok.
pienen lapsen sielu tällä kauniilla miehellä. viaton mies. viaton POIKA. koskaan miehistynyt. sweet sweet boy. keho kulkee ajan myötä kuin me kaikki muutkin mutta sielu pysyy. kuin paikallaan pysyy sielu pienenä ja harmittomana. mahdotonta ketään pelottaa tai vaurioittaa, ei ole voimaa siihen, ei edes käsitä miten se olisi mahdollista niin viaton ja pikkunen. pikkunen. pikkupoika. awwwwwwwwww... so cute.... niin söpö.....mahdottoman pieni mies ja niin söpö ja niin viaton ja niin kiltti pieni pieni mies aijjaijjai kuinka vähän tämä pienokainen vaikuttaa ympäröivään maailmaansa paitsi suloisesti pikkupojan tavoin... duncan
Enjoyed this. Pleasant and easy listen. A few songs were quite catchy too.
Again, didn’t love this album but I recognize it is great music. Innovative and unique. It has the calm playfulness I’m familiar with in Simon and Garfunkel with bits of spoken word sprinkled in.
Yep!
Beyond 'Mother and Child Reunion' and 'Me and Julio Down By the Schoolyard', has some nice songs like 'Duncan' and 'Papa Hobo'.
It’s fine, I’d rather listen to Simon & Garfunkel. This is more of the same
3.5/5 Favourite songs: Mother and Child Reunion, Me and Julio Down by the Schoolyard
Not really my thing, but it was fine.
Some affecting songs
Imma relisten to it later
Pretty pleasing to listen to, but i did just get an auditory nightmare for my last album so anything would’ve been cleansing. Good background and thinking music.
7/10 - I'm quietly impressed by Paul Simon, my second album I've listened of his and I like his experimental approach with rock and pop
Blah
• 3/5 • Two great singles (Mother and Child, Me and Julio) and the rest is forgettable, if inoffensive
Solid pop/rock/folk album which is an interesting period piece looking at simons career and his breakup with garfunkel. You can feel the song writing talent. Like his vocals as well. He seems to want to show his musical range with a lot of genre hopping. While i admire the wish to display the mastery of everything from blues to reggea, it does not help the record imo. The tracks do not blend enough to make this feel like a coherent lp and bumps the rating down a little bit. Still very enjoyable.
Middle of the road Some good songs but my mind kinda found it all blended into one
- I like this a lot more than the last album. It was way better than I expected from it but I didn't really enjoy it too much. It was still a good album but definitely not the best.
Short and pleasant.
Jam forward. Good for a moody drive or a morose dinner party. Long songs, aside from everyone's favorite with Cisco Kid. Probably going to take a few more listens to really hear the lyrics.
Pretty good and entertaining. Simple yet not basic
Nice and folksy. Plenty of harmony and simple verses.
On his first solo outing after parting ways with Art Garfunkel, Paul Simon keeps one foot in the folk-pop comfort zone while dipping the other into more adventurous waters. The familiar warmth and lyrical wit remain, but the palette expands — reggae rhythms buoy the buoyant hits “Mother and Child Reunion” and “Me and Julio Down by the Schoolyard,” while “Duncan” offers breezy, strummy folk-pop and “Run That Body Down” shuffles along with a jazzy, late-night sway. The result isn’t a radical departure so much as a gentle widening of Simon’s musical lens, a record that suggests his days of pushing past the S&G template are just beginning.
I did not realize how many songs I knew off this album. It reminded me of car rides with my parents and they're rotation of three CDs. Favorite songs was mother and child reunion
A lovely collection of folk pop that allows Simon's ability to shine as a songwriter. Some aspects of the album felt a little tentative to me, but Peace Like a River was a real standout to me.
Liked the vibe, very roadtrip vibe
Favs : Mother and Child Reunion ; Run That Body Down Pas mon style de musique, je peux difficilement juger. C’est sympathique dans l’ensemble et selon l’atmosphère c’est un album qui s’écoute très bien. Très acoustique, à la Paul Kelly.
Onda campirana, me gusta lo suave de la musica pero es un disco muy yankee como otros que han pasado por aca
Pretty good.
La manera en la que el disco une el flok con sonidos latinoamericanos y africanos es magistral.
Meh. Better in the beginning and trailed off. I respect paul simon and I do think hes unique and songwriting is great. But this didnt do much for me other than the popular songs
Wasn't sure what to expect from this album Paul's soothing vocals fit very well over the combination of folk Blues and pop elements. I did find the album a little one dimensional which would be my biggest complaint but it's not a major one
Fine, didn't like it as much as Graceland
This album was enjoyable enough, I liek the mix of jazz, acoustic, folk and all the other styles. There wasn’t anything that stood too me and I don’t think I’d come back to it but glad I heard it once. 3 is fair.
Kinda boring, but feel good music.
I have a student who refuses to play anything but Paul Simon when we work in the woodshop. He steals the aux and blasts Paul Simon on repeat. The same Paul Simon songs all day every day. I don’t know how to review this. It’s all good. I don’t like much of it. The instrumental songs are great. His stories can be charming. But I would never listen to this for fun. I think it's just stuck in that place where because my grandmother didn't play this all the time for my dad who then played it for me I am lacking the appreciation for Mr Simon as a whole. Hours later, a Paul Simon song came on shuffle and my wife goes on about how she LOVES Graceland and I asked her why and she said her dad used to play it all the time because her grandmother used to play it all the time. Confirmed.
*yawn*
Some great songs but overall he's just not in my lane. Brilliant songwriter, great voice a legend but not for me.
Way better than I thought it would be! I love Paranoia Blues from it.
Paul Simon is an odd artist in that I really like a lot of his recordings, and I have seen, and really enjoyed, one of his live shows, but I have never really warmed to him. This was his first album after his split with Art Garfunkel; it's not as good as Bridge Over Troubled Water, and he would produce better albums after this. There are some good songs - "Mother and Child Reunion", "Me And Julio Down By the Schoolyard", "Peace Like A River" - some merely OK. Simon's voice and guitar playing are fine throughout. "Armistice Day" stood out for me, I like this song a lot - acoustic guitar and percussion (by Airto Moreira) which, with the addition of some horns and subtle electric guitar, builds to a nice crescendo. But, as an album it doesn't really hold together and feels like he was largely treading water while he transcended to solo work after so many years in a duo.
Easy, easy listening
Very pleasant, more intresting than most gutiar/ vocal music. Wouldn't mind listening again
Pffff aburrido y repetitivo. No mucho más que decir 5/10
Not sure, i heard this longplayer the first time. I Like Simon&Garfunkel, but for Simon solo i need more time for a Fair vote
Vibes.
Mother and Child Reunion Me and Julio Down by the Schoolyard Peace Like a River
I'm generally a fan but this record didn't do much for me.
Ganske fint, litt mixy
Paul Simon is a bit of a musical blind spot for me. I know he is considered a musical legend. But for me it’s a bit vanilla, a bit sanitised. Was going to score him a 2 but think this is probably a little unfair and not reflective of his talent as a songwriter (?). He can have an extra star for marrying Princes Leia, every schoolboys fantasy (if you were born in 1972)
Not shite, but not really my go-to thing. Pleasant enough sonically but requires a specific mood. It goes a bit reggae at points, which amounted to the more interesting and uplifting aspects of the album. Thumbs in the middle from me, might re-evaluate down the line.
Diverse sounds but so is the quality of song writing
A few classic songs and a lot of filler
2-3
Prefer his work with Garfunkel. Julio is a highlight but quite middle of the road otherwise.
I like this a fair bit, but it feels that for the most part, Simon had not yet found an independent voice that was distinctive from Simon and Garfunkel; this feels very much like Bridge Over Troubled Water II at points. This means it feels like Garfunkel is lacking from the record; I would have welcomed his voice. The exception here is Me and Julio, where it feels like Simon is covering new ground, and is the strongest track on the album by far. A strong three, almost a four.
me when "Me and Julio Down by the Schoolyard" came on: IT'S THE SONG FROM THE ROYAL TENENBAUMS also I really liked "Peace Like a River"
Pretty good for a debut, solo, album. I know he has the years as Simon & Garfunkel, which I preferred, but this is still solid. A few good hits, but nothing that will stick with me, except for just how impressive his voice is in general. Favorite song: Run that Body Down
This was an alright listen. Nothing particularly objectionable about this album, though it was a little wierd and a little sleepy.
The story telling and melody are lost on today's music.
num fede nem cheira
eh normal hein... mas flerta bastante com outros estilos, num esperava isso nao
Puzzled on this one. A high three?
Me and Julio is amazing The rest is pleasant but not really essential
Not his best. There are a lot of diddly half songs
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
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
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.
Some amazing classics and some really boring stuff
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.
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
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
nice
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.
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.
Very good album. A mix of blues an some Latin flavors?
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
Some great stuff. But we’ve had enough of Paul Simon.
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.
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
3/5
bom pra ouvir em um dia frio de outono
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)
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
I will always remember Me and Julio.. during The Royal Tannibaums
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
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.
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.
Very catchy tunes. Nothing really stood out to me though.
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.
Bon c'est de la folk, c'est bien mais sans plus
Iisiä menoa, ehkä liiankin. Tuttu levy mutta tällä kertaa kuuntelin ihan mielellään kokonaan.
It was ok
если б я нашел эту пластинку в хижине у озера в штате монтана, я бы ее с удовольствием слушал
It was fine. Love Paul Simon but I can't say this is his best work.
Meh
Not quite the genre I listen to but I can see why other people enjoy it.
Eh. Me and Julio down by the schoolyard is nostalgic for me because of the tenonbombs soundtrack.
i think it's nice but i cannot get the hype
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.
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.
3.0 - Ok
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.
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
good
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.
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
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.
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
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.
Fun album, good vibes
Easy listen!
There's only one like Paul Simon isn't there? Not my favourite album of his but some great stuff.
some gems and some middling dross worthy of a Dr waiting room
3/5
Good, Americana isn't my personal vibe
meh. didn't really enjoy it much. not entirely sure why, just a bit ... normal.
Discography listened in march 2025, shows the mastery of an american singer songwriter
This one went to different places tonally, but still great.
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
I always find Mr Simon very earnest and self important. Start of the record it was a 2, gradually edged up.
7.5/10 really enjoyable and smooth tracks a little repetitive
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
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
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
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.
Its an alright folk acousticy album, nothing crazy but nothing bad either.
Pretty good, but a bit underwhelming
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
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.
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
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.
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.
Ok
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
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
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.
More music that is unobtrusive for the office.
6.5/10
It’s fine but I found it boring tbh
Theres better paul simon out there. Some good folk in here, some boring, many depressing.
3,5/5 rigtig godt folk rock sing and song writer musik. Tror sgu bare han har sat et stort. Første solo album efter at have løsrevet sig fra Simon and garfunkel. Blander folk, jazz, reggae og latin.
I had never heard any of these songs before. Paul is an amazing lyricist but the songs here fall a little flat. It lacks the harmonies and polish he had with Garfunkel, and lacks the hooks and experimentation of his later solo work. To me this is a transitionary album, and as such I question its inclusion on this list.
Nice to hear. Started with a reggae song ! Well I 've always been quite fond of Simon's early solo songs.
De la folk gentillette avec quelques délires plus ou moins réussis. Pas l'album du siècle, mais rien de nullissime.
U like jazz?
Generally a nice vibe but not really for me. I particularly liked Paranoia Blues.
Me when Congratulations wasn't a PewDiePie cover: 😔
I was so optimistic and then he started singing
6/10
Look at you in your little coat, Paul Simon! Writing songs named after 親子丼! Making up guys called "Lincoln Duncan"! Singing the classic lyric "Went to my doctor yesterday / Aaaah"! I like all of it, but other than 'Me and Julio Down by the Schoolyard' (which is a 5/5 song), and 'Paranoia Blues', everything's just a little too mellow for my taste.
Onderhoudend albumpje van Paul Simon, met van alles wat. Het begint met reggae, vervolgens een Dylanesque liedje. Hij gooit er wat typisch Simon gitaarwerk tegenaan, het hitje "Me and Julio down at the Schoolyard" had zo op een Simon & Garfunkel album kunnen staan. Het tweede deel heeft weer wat meer blues. Hoewel het uit de hoogtijdagen van de singer-songwriters komt, voelt het niet singer-songwriterig aan. Het blijft gewoon allemaal aan de rustige kant van het spectrum. Maar doordat het voldoende afwisseling biedt, verveelt het niet. Afgezien van het hitje zal het wel enigszins vergeetbaar zijn, dus dan zitten we toch weer op een 3.
Pretty average album. No real stand out songs for me, but quite an easy chill listen.
Not a bad album by any means, very easy-listenable, maybe not my favourite Paul Simon tracks, although me and Julio is a banger 😎 Fav song: Me and Julio Down by the Schoolyard
Good music, but as always Paul Simon's unique blend of serious/funny/bluesy/folky light rock just is not my bag.
Primera vez escuchando un álbum de las carreras en solitario de uno de los miembros de Simon & Garfunkel. Musicalmente es muy bueno. Una guitarra folk virtuosa, y muy bien acompañada con unos arreglos simples pero elegantes. En cuanto a las letras, la verdad es que no me han dicho gran cosa. Creo que son demasiado simples, interesantes pero sin llegar al virtuosismo poético de Dylan u otros cantautores de la época. Un álbum que merece estar en la lista y una buena nota, pero no me termina de apasionar.
Aber nur in Relation, weil er noch viel geilere Songs hat.
It was okay
Calm, easy, and comforting. Not something I'd listen to regularly, but this is a really nice record. Paul has a very pleasant voice and the instrumentation that carries it makes it an enjoyable record to listen to.
Not bad, easy listening but no standouts. Pretty much the standard candle for a 3.
few good tunes scattered throughout, but nothing that really stands out and blows me away. ⭐⭐⭐ 55/100
good storytelling and a smooth delivery. good album.
Generic Paul Simon. Could have been Simon and Garfunkel. Ok I suppose. 2.5/5
3.5 stars - i like Paul Simon solo better than with Garfunkel
Pretty classic album
Such a comforting voice this album feels like a hug Favourite song: Armistice day - the little guitar shuffle and the woo-ooo-oooh
Some interesting folk tunes. Nothing quite catchy
Good album. I particularly enjoyed Me And Julio By The Schoolyard, and Run That Body Down.
fine- I don’t mind his voice and I liked the softness of the music, quite relaxing
Good album! Not super special though, would maybe relisten.
3 again so many average albums
Classic but not an overwhelming listen
Some nice moments, but ultimately a little bland for me.
"Mother and child reunion" is a banger Don't understand the overwhelming popularity of "Me and Julio by the schoolyard" Rest of the album is boring
Never quite clicked with Paul Simon in the way that I feel I ought.
Best Song: Mother and Child Reunion. I kind of wished that the whole album was reggae. Worst Song: Armistice Day. This felt cacophonous in a distracting way. Like there were three different songs playing at the same time, competing for my attention. Overall: He's got a great voice and clearly decent songwriting chops, but the album also feels like it needed more editing to come up with a series of songs that made sense with each other (and that even sounded internally consistent).
Very folky, roadtrip to West Virginia vibes
не зашло, обычный дженерик альбом
Very relaxing
More Simon then Paul
Was decent, nothing stood out tho
It’s no Randy Newman but the music felt polite to listen to, don’t ask what that means that’s just how I FEEL
Man that's a slow album.
Well, here it is, my last Paul Simon album to review. My wife and I actually have this on CD, but I’ve never listened to all of it. The CD was mistakenly delivered to us by in an Amazon package, and we could never track down the rightful owner. Even though I’ve never listened to this album in its entirety, I do love “Me and Julio Down by the Schoolyard.” I’ve loved Graceland since the first time I listened to it many years ago, and I thought Hearts and Bones was pretty good, so I have some high hopes for this album as well. The cover to this album suits the weather outside perfectly, so let’s get after it! As much as I wanted to love this album, I thought it was just fine. Paul Simon is a great songwriter, and that talent was on display on this album, but I didn’t find it that interesting to listen to. This album featured plenty of that signature folk sound that Paul Simon built with Art Garfunkel, but there was also some of the African and world music influences that Paul would utilize on later albums. The appearance of both of those styles wasn’t bad necessarily, but it just wasn’t something that I enjoyed. From a musical standpoint, I was a much bigger fan of songs like “Mother and Child Reunion” and the aforementioned “Me and Julio Down by the Schoolyard.” The cuica on “Me and Julio” was fantastic, and I love the guitar playing as well. There’s such an infectious energy on “Me and Julio” that makes it a blast to listen to. “Mother and Child Reunion” has a lot of those African music influences that I love too, especially the way the organ and bass guitar sound together. From a songwriting perspective, “Peace Like a River,” “Run That Body Down,” and “Armistice Day” were my favorites. “Peace Like a River” was particularly great, because Paul Simon took his folk writing roots from the sixties, but gave it that pessimism from the seventies. Overall though, this album just doesn’t feel terribly cohesive to me, and there were too many moments on it that were a little bland for my taste, and that’s why it lands in the middle of the road for me.
Some lovely songs but on the whole didn't grab me
Nulla a che vedere col duo, ma carino
It's fine. Unremarkable. Never been on board with PS so. Moving on.
Not bad, not great.
It is one of my law of live events that - Dylan excepted - one person and their guitar is rarely enough to hold my attention for more than a couple of songs. And so it is here, the ones with a band are excellent, the ones without are, well early 70s singer-songwriter. On the whole three stars, but individual track ratings rarely a three.
It was fine. Sort of thing I'd expect in a coffee shop. Inoffensive background music with the occasional toe tapper.
Again, it’s grand. Alit is stuff in here could have been Simon and Garfunkel in a different time. Couple of highlights, Me and Julio has always been a favourite.
A nice listen but not particularly memorable
Enjoyed it but it felt like it didn’t capture my attention on both listens. Duncan & Me & Julio are great song though.
I like Paul Simon, I liked the opener and I liked some other bits, but graceland is way better
3/5. It is a very quiet album and close to the heart. I think this works wonders in the more soulful songs but not all songs on the album are great, got some skips in there despite the short length of the album. I guess I lose interest after some time and it doesn't hold up as a front to back masterpiece like other albums Simon is involved in. Best Song: Me And Julio Down By The Schoolyard, Peace Like a River, Duncan
Me and Hilary down by the schoolyard
Simon without Garfunkel just isn’t my thing; Duncan is the one redeeming track for me (I’ve always found Me and Julio completely insufferable and this listen didn’t change that 😂)
Probably over-indexing because it's the first listenable album this week.
Delightful and calming, who can deny Paul Simon
5/10. feeling indifferent. I liked Run That Body Down. that’s about it.
Not the best workout album 3 It's missing something...
Verses sung coolly Of not so plot driven tales With lax acoustics
Not typically a big fan of soft rock or singer-songwriter. But this had some good vibes and some quality vocals. It just felt like it was missing something. Garfunkel maybe?
Paul Simon - his music is lovely, some of his best hits are classics. Nonetheless, most of his music just doesn't hit me with all that much joy. Still, a decent album
It's weird because I don't like this. The arrangements are too harsh, especially the drums and perhaps the tempo and even the violin!!! Too fast, too loud, too annoying, a bit plain. It's just weird to picture Paul Simon with this kind of style, probably because I've listened to too many Simon&Garfunkel. Melodies are beautiful as usual, The lyrics aren't bad (folk rock after all, I value lyricism). An overall 2.5/5. My favorite tracks are "Duncan" and "Peace Like a River".
Interesting mix of material that is still very reminiscent of Simon & Garfunkel (like Duncan or Peace like a River) and that which is markedly different (like the opening track Mother and Child Reunion and Me and Julio Down by the Schoolyard for example). Most of the rest of the tracks are arranged fairly simply but have a different feel than your average Simon and Garfunkel track; jazzier/more soulful & a little more laid back & personal/conversational. 3.5⭐️
a sweet little album. Me and Julio is a great song, but not the only gem. Liked Run That Body Down, Armistice Day, and Peace Like a River as well. The reggae rhythms of Mother and Child Reunion clearly foreshadow Graceland.
A pleasant listen. Peace Like a River stands out as something special.
It was a bit weird lyrically but still fun and enjoyable to listen to
folksy, mellow. just not my thing