Reviews (page 9 of 13)
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
Mysigt album. Tycker man hör hur mycket han var av Simon & Garfunkel.
A very relaxed and mellow record. I enjoyed the overall sound of the album, but I'm not a big fan of the slow paced and randomness to the lyrical structures, for me the record misses a good flow. The songs do fit together well and the feel of an album is apparant, I like the conscious approach to writing music that Simon has and he manages to discuss important topics. Overall a fine album, which has an important message, but for me lacks in structure. Favorite song: Congratulations. Overall score: 6,1/10
# Album Name: Paul Simon # Artist: Paul Simon # Rating: 3/5 # Comments: Mother and child has a slight reggae vibe to it. Interesting. Wasnt expecting that. Pretty average album. two good tracks. # Top Tunes: # Would I listen to it again? Nah.
No es mi estilo
No lo encontré terrible, muy buena composición y letras agradables. Pero nada que ver a mí. Aprecio que usaron cuica en un tema folk, una anomalía. Un 5/10.
3.5
3+/5
It was... okay. A bit lackluster, comparing to previous Simon & Garfunkel's albums, or probably because I listened to too much folk lately. Either way, Mother and Child Reunion was lovely. 3.5/5
I will admit I was partially distracted when I listened to this album, so this isn’t the fairest rating, but I did like what I heard. Lots of great bluesy folksy stuff, and of course “Julio” slaps every time. Still, none of the songs really stood out to me as especially catchy. Overall, it was an enjoyable listen for what I was doing at the time of listening, and I’d be curious to re-listen at a time when I’m able to truly take in the words.
3.5 very solid
Standout tracks: - Mother and Child Reunion - Me and Julio Down by the Schoolyard
78% Best: Mother and Child Reunion; Run That Body Down; Me and Julio Down by the Schoolyard; Congratulations Must-Hear? Not quite
Ese fue un Fun Little album, la pase bien, simple, divertido, me re gustó. Total del album: 74
I give it a 3.5, definitely could grow for me going forward. Nice subtle folk and pop, the masterful way Paul Simon does it.
First solo album. Reggae vibes. Some lovely folk. Cozy. Nice and mellow. A bit boring.
booooring... but nice
Songs i knew:0 Songs i liked:2 or 3 A load of solid tracks on here, guessing he was heavy on the weed when he written that reggae number and paranoia blues. Much better than bridge over trouble water, he was well better without that other prick. High 3.
Enjoyed this. Didn’t blow my socks off but there’s some decent tunes on here, a couple of which go fairly hard for acoustic songs. Me and Julio down by the river is a nice little ditty with a bit of swing to it, and Peace Like a River has some cool riffs. The lyrics to Paranoia Blues remind me of going through security check in Schipol airport. Overall, not bad. Best tracks: Me and Julio, Peace Like a River, Paranoia Blues
I'm a big fan of Simon & Garfunkel and whilst I miss Art's harmonies on this its still a solid album. Even the reggae tinged songs didn't feel too cringe. Especially on Mother & Child Reunion. Belter song. Some of the album tracks are a bit lacking that classic S&G sound and just meander around a bit. Thinking songs like Everything Put Together Falls Apart and Run That Body Down. Armistace is a bit messy. Highlights: Mother and Child Reunion - Reggae can be alright sometimes. Me and Julio - Slaps. One of his all time best. Papa Hobo - Fun little ditty Paranoia Blues - love that slide guitar Lowlights: Everything Put Together Falls Apart Run That Body Down Congratulations Bit of a mixed bag but a nice listen. Quite a stoned sounding album and misses some of the orchestral touches of his other work. Feels quite demo-ey/first take at times. Great sunday morning album though.
Highlight: Me and Julio Down By The Schoolyard In a nutshell: dabbling in a bit of everything Paul puts folk rock from Simon and Garfunkel on the backburner and tries out blues, roots and light reggae. It doesn't sound like he's appropriating the genres either. It's good, just not his best. Overall: 5/10
Not half bad a bit boring though. Some good word play worth a relisten for the lyrics, a few songs at least.
A very Paul Simony album. Peaceful and toe-tapping at times, but largely background music.
Primer disco en solitario Vendrán otros mejores. Excelentes 8 de las 11 cancioes.
Nice
Nice.
прикольно, но не удивил
pretty tame but very pleasant
I like Paul Simon but I don't love him. This is a nice album though
Meh.
Nothing stood out, but not bad.
Mukavia kappaleita levyllä. Paul Simonin musa on kyllä sellainen turvallinen säkkituoli.
Pleasant but mellow. Could have used a little more Julio.
I never listened to the full album so there was new experience for me here. All generally pleasant.
Some amazing tracks and some very average ones. Wish he had just gone full melodic.
high 3
Great album, really showing how he retained the authenticity from his early days in Simon and Garfunkel and grew as a songwriter, composing more complex and interesting songs about even the simplest of subjects. Also great because it marks a beginning of his move towards world music with interesting rhythms and sonorities
My father was a fisherman. My mama was a fisherman's friend. Favourite track: Duncan.
duncan旋律真的好好；好像很久以前有听过他和另一个人的组合
Had a real feel of an album written by someone in the last few weeks of the gap year they’ve mainly spent playing the guitar next to campfires.
Quite enjoyable with some catchy tunes, one or two 'hits'. Probably not something I'd listen to again.
Ohhh not another man from the seventies. Thankfully this was slightly different to the sounds we have had before. I was pleasantly surprised by the opening track and I liked Duncan. I was only familiar with ‘me and Julio’. Quite a jolly album, makes me regret giving Eagles 3. Not something I’d listen to again but perhaps the occasional song.
Prefer this more folksy approach to the pop of Graceland in lots of ways. Not as strong as the strongest S&G, but contains some timeless classics (Mother and Child, Me and Julio).
Will listen again. 3,4
Not bad. Gets a little too similar to bob Dylan at times.
Such a sweet album but didn’t reach out to me as much as I thought it would. His voice is fantastic though
Decent folky/light rock album with a few great songs. Starting to apply some more diverse influences that flesh out more on later albums. Solid melodies and songwriting, for an overall alright album.
Too reggeae for me
This was fine. I'm jealous of people who can whistle that cleanly. 3.1
Not bad
One of those that I know I should like it more than I do. His voice is faultless, he can play a mean guitar and the songs, when they hit right, are impeccable. It's just that it leaves me sat probably on a sidewalk in Greenwich village waiting for something a bit more... more. Run That Body Down, Duncan and Me & Julio stood out for me.
Paul Simon's first album after he got himself detached from the guy from the funny last name, and... See, I can understand why this is supposed to be so special. Simon is, evidently, a phenomenal singer-songwriter, and his inclusion of world elements was particularly unique at the time. Ain't no American artist in those days using a cuica. However, as much as I acknowledge and accept that — and as much as I did, honestly, try to pay attention to the lyrics and stories... This album just didn't do terribly too much for me. Maybe I just feel like it's lacking a little edge? The world elements aside (and maybe some of the deeper political meanings I missed, I'unno) it just felt kind of safe and typical. I mean, jeez, at least when he was palling around Garfunkel they had those beautiful harmonies, and that was interesting enough to carry me through. By himself... Yeah, I suppose he **is** a 70's folk singer-songwriter. But I'm not gonna act impressed by that, y'know? I'unno, it's an "it's fine" 3. I can appreciate some nice guitar and some of that 70's flute sound, but other than that, there just wasn't enough to really keep me engaged. Maybe when he takes a trip down to Graceland and I can call him Al there'll be more there. In the meantime... I'unno. Me First And The Gimme Gimmes did a cover of "Me And Julio"? Check that out, I guess? Sure.
Not bad 3/5
Me and Julio in the school yard song reminds me of what Mike used to do on lunch break at the mold shop
Great guitar instrumentals that I really enjoyed. And then you got Paul Simon's voice. Mix that, it's a 3-star rating for me.
Pretty steady and safe, but otherwise typical Paul Simon
Paar 4er-bangers, meistens zwüsche 2 und 3, aber hotte dude
nöd die ganz ziit super ufmerksam gsi aber die vibes woni catcht han sind definitiv catchable gsi vereinzelti lieder 2 mal glost und vorerst mal direkt ih minere oldies playlist zum verstaube deponiert hübsche burscht tho
Middling. Never really got going and all I could think when I was listening was that I’d much rather be listening to Nick Drake.
I thought Simon's work as one half of Simon & Garfunkel was great. But his solo work is lacking the charm "Bridge Over Troubled Water" had. I liked some of songs at the beginning of "Self Titled". The later songs were ok for the time. Solo albums tend to suck but Simon avoided that. 3 stars for "Self Titled".
Pop, Folk, 1972 -> 3
Not my favorite of his Me and Julio slaps
...
I've always liked Paul Simon.
I miss Garfunkel!
Enjoyed it!
3/5 Mother and Child Reunion is a reggae song, which is cool for that time. Duncan is a ballad and it's beautiful. Everything Put Together Falls Apart sounds like what directly inspired Jeff Buckley. Run That Body Down is a cheesy happy song. Did not enjoy Armistice Day. Me and Julio Down by the Schoolyard is cool, you can see the bossa nova influences, but it does not captivate me. Peace Like a River picks up the pace a bit for me, it's better than the last three songs. Papa Hobo is okay. Hobo's Blues is okay-ish. Paranoia Blues is bad. Congratulations is a good way to close a underwhelming LP.
meh 3/5 - not my fav kind of music
I have a lot of time for Paul Simon. I love his laidback style. This is a good album. I can see why people would adore it … and I like it. I really do. But, if I’m being honest I’m not sure I will ever choose to listen to it again. At least not for a good few years. So a 2.5 rounded to 3. I think that is fair.
#67 - Again, nice listen but nothing really calls out to me
Pretty mid honestly. Not a fan of most 70s
Okay. Not really for me. And after hearing the original, I can say they where right to change Me And Julio. The final version is way better then the demo.
Great album.
Not totally my jam, but I see why people like Paul Simon.
Relaxed, love the guitar sound.
Nice. Melodic.
Ok
Me and Julio down by the school yard Missing the Garfunkel, harmless, nice background music 3
This is a good folkrock album. I mean there is some songs I like and some songs I don’t. There is no songs I love, but neither are there songs I hate… It is a very indifferent and inoffensive album. It is alright. I don’t know what more to say, really. Oh and Paul Simon is American????? While I listened I thought that this was the most American British album I had ever heard… only to find out that my life was a lie and Bridge Over Troubled Water wasn’t made by two British chaps. Favorite tracks: Me and Julio Down by the Schoolyard, Duncan 6/10
Couple of classics - he’s a great lyricist but not Peak Paul for me.
This is really more of a 2.5, but because I love what came before and came after I consider this a necessary steppingstone. And there were two great songs.
Paul Simon is nothing if not 100% pro. The arrangements on this album are all spotless, his vocal performances are clear and pristine, the songs are all expertly written. All that said, this amounts to a very pleasant listen, with some obvious standout tracks, that failed to excite me. Really well done, but not one I'd feel compelled to listen to out of the sheer pleasure it gives me.
It points to both future directions he would explore in the 80s (eg the world music reggae vibes of the opening track Mother and Child reunion, and Me and Julio Down by the Schoolyard) as well as his 60s work with Garfunkel (Everything Put Together Falls Apart). But for all its charm and experimentation it feels a little scattered and unfocused. It’s also quite short at 35 mins.
Very fall vibes
Mother and Child Reunion 3.7 Duncan 3.1 Everything Put Together Falls Apart 3 Run That Body Down 3.4 Armistice Day 3.3 Me and Julio Down by the Schoolyard 3.6 Peace Like a River 3.4 Papa Hobo 2.8 Hobo's Blues 3 Paranoia Blues 3.2 Congratulations 3 Score: 3.227272727
Was a fine album, I like some of his other works better. Maybe it’ll grow on me. Me and Julio down by the schoolyard is a classic though.
First listen. Decent.
Good. Very good. A bit jaunty/twee for my taste.
decent folk album, typical sound for that era and group.
Paul Simon is always very listenable, but I’m not always in the same page with him as far as his whimsy.
Seems to be missing something and, while it might grow on me with more listens, it falls flat the first two times.
Not a huge fan. But this is probably his best work.
Paul Simon is a great songwriter, and this album is a good example. There are some really strong songs on here, and there aren't any bad ones either. That being said, I much prefer his output with Garfunkel, so I don't see coming back to this album very often.
Not bad.
I was a little underwhelmed by this one. It's a fine album, just a little forgettable. I only knew one song form this album prior to listening (Me and Julio Down By the Schoolyard) and to be honest, I never really liked the song to begin with. Should've been a sign... Favorite song(s): Peace Like a River, Armistice Day Least favorite song: Mother and Child Reunion Knew beforehand? No
I mean .... It's Paul Simon! Some great songs here, but It's not something I would go to my musical closet of choice, to pull out and put on the player. I enjoyed it, nice easy to listen to.
It's nice. Too nice.
A little repetitive but comfy. Would be great to listen to during Autumn. Recognized Me and Julio Down By the Schoolyard (of course) and was happy to finally hear the rest.
Great song written, lovely folk pop album, deserves to be on the list, but I’d rank this below Graceland, bookends and bridge over troubled water, so less likely to come back to it.
sweet little piece of folk rock along https://i.scdn.co/image/ab67616d0000b27337a40ab12a4fb96319a9d96fwith some blues
#317. This album is fine, but kind of forgettable. Nothing at all really stood out as particularly interesting to me while I was listening to it. 3/5: acceptable
CARINO
I’m lagging really hard on rating this album. I keep listening to it hoping it’s gonna get better. It’s certainly good. It’s just not hitting for some reason. Me and Julio Down by the Schoolyard has always been a favorite of mine though.
Didn’t pay too much attention to the album. Didn’t find it engaging. It sounded fine, but not anything I’d go out of my way to listen to again. Folk? Couldn’t tell you. Standouts: Peace Like a River, Paranoia Blues, and Congratulations.
From Simon and Garfunkel discography I was expected to get hit in a instant but unfortunately I didn’t first track was great and fun but went back to blues and folk which were great but didn’t hit me to an extent
Decent album. Good singing. Didn’t love it didn’t hate it
Graceland is miles better, but this was still good
ok to nice singer songwriter stuff
Faktisk mægtigt godt. Ihvertfald bedre end det tidligere Poul Simon album. Det blev dog lyttet til lidt afbrudt, så det kan godt være jeg skal vende tilbage til det en anden dag. men indtil nu positiv.
Det kan lige svinge sig op på hyggeligt baggrundsmuzak.
Sounds exactly like I expect a Paul Simon album to sound. Safe, inoffensive music played well & written well.
I like Me and Julio Down by the Schoolyard; I kind of like Mother and Child Reunion, Hobo’s Blues
Fine
I prefer the albums with Garfunkle, but this had solid moments of his uniquely talented lyrical style and a wide range of influences. Plus, "Me and Julio Down By the Schoolyard" excites me at the first note. I think I've listened to it three times today.
ja, folk der frühen 70er. mir gefallen ein paar songs, ihre melodien und der erzählende gesang von simon. aber das geflöte stört mich jedes mal ein wenig mehr ..
This album has so many great songs, led by “Mother and Child Reunion” and “Me and Julio Down by the Schoolyard”, the two tracks that’ll have you singing them for days afterwards. The lead single lays the blueprint for where Simon will later go with Graceland and The Rhythm of the Saints, which some critics say is nothing more than an exploitation or appropriation of music beyond America’s borders.
Nice easy listening, not 100% my cup of tea and was a bit of a struggle to get through in one sitting, but I feel like if I was doing some other stuff/in the right mood, it would be a different story.
Its okay its his stuff. Graceland is much better
Like the other Paul Simon albums, there is some good stuff on here, but after the big hits, a lot is fine.
There is some great songwriting here and there is no denying that Simon's solo career stands on its own. The first track of the album stands out in particular to me. However, I can't help but prefer his work with Garfunkel, and anticipate that I will rate it higher.
Decent album by Simon. This sounds similar to his work with Garfunkel, and I enjoy his more upbeat solo work. 3.5/5 Probably will listen again
mother and child reunion- ok. it would play in a movie like florida project. it would show a couple shots of a board walk. 6 or 7 duncan- idc. 3. NO THERES MORE everything put together falls apart- i thought it was about drugs but its not so idc. 4 run that body down- ahhhhhhh. 4 armistice day- :l . 5 me and julio down by the schoolyard- 7 or 8. i like the monkey sounding noises. or it sounds like you get a soda at mcdonalds and youre messing with the straw. peace like a river- idgaf paul hobo- i also live on gatorade. 6 hobo blues- 7 or 8 paranoia blues- 6 congratulations- ok. 5 favorite song- hobo blues it wont let me rate the album....
3.75 solid, not quite a 4 but good
3/5 Solid.
liked it. short and nice. but nothing super standout, aside from maybe paranoia blues.
Classic artist not for me.
La verdad lo disfrute y es un buen disco de solo voz y guitarra pero no es para nada superior a "Graceland". Disfrute las canciones sin embargo creo que Paul Simon ha hecho mejores cosas y hay artistas que usándolo solo guitarra y voz me parecen mas interesantes.
Liked Songs Mother and Child Reunion Me and Julio Down by the Schoolyard
Me and julio down by the schoolyard Mother and child reunion Run that body down
pleasant listen with some standouts
Peaches and cream. Women and wine. Simon and Garfunkel. Something's are better together. That not to say that peaches aren't great by themselves. But sometimes its better with cream. And this Simon would have been better with Art. And thidnt isn't to say Simon isn't great all by himself. Graceland is a great album. But this isn't. The first few songs are tepid at best. Others are good. But many only have glimmers of something interesting. This album is almost good.
Unique - almost modern in some sections
3rd fav
Paul Simon is a great songwriter. I prefer his music as part of S&G. I'm not as big of a fan of his solo work. There are some definite bright spots on this album, namely "Me and Julio...." I also love that this album has Reggae influences. Good album.
На один раз нормально, в конце какое-то кантри пошло.
Good album. Good music and lyrics. It's entertaining!
Never listened to this but I enjoyed it.
probably a 3.5. Some great songs and a few legendary ones but too many moments feel meandering and unfulfilled
3/5
definitely would listen if I was upset to calm me down and cheer me up
After the first track of a cringy attempt at reggae, the album redeems itself with what Paul Simon does best, folky singer songwriter grounded in acoustic guitar.
Two really good songs, his lyrics are good.