4.1 - Simon’s warm and gentle songcraft is fully realized on this record and he spins compelling slice-of-life vignettes that often draw on heady influences (see “René and Georgette Magritte…”). At times Simon channels an inner Larry David and describes middle-aged afflictions like “Allergies” and overthinking and divorce lawyers. But songs like “Cars are Cars” ensure that Simon (and us listeners) never take him too seriously, and he maintains a playful flow. The record closes us out with a sincere and loving eulogy to Johnny Ace.