Paul Simon [Extra tracks] [Original recording remastered]

Amazon.com essential recording
How does one follow a commercial smash on the scale of Bridge over Troubled Water, one of the blockbuster pop titles of the '60s? For Paul Simon, the strategy was simple--as in "Keep it simple." His 1972 solo debut is the bantam bookend to the expansive Bridge. Where the final Simon & Garfunkel LP was grand, Paul Simon is modest. Where Bridge served up lavish emotions, on his own Simon explored a kind of hooded, pensive melancholy. "Mother & Child Reunion," the first reggae arrangements many Americans ever heard, opens the album and casts a blue hue over the collection. An eclectic crew of players (including jazzmen Stephane Grappelli, Jerry Hahn, and Ron Carter) turn up in tunes that fit together as snugly as a winter wardrobe. By the time Larry Knechtel's electric piano fades away at the end of "Congratulations," Paul Simon, solo artist, has put that Bridge behind him and set off on his solo career. --Steven Stolder

Paul Simon,Paul Simon,Rhino / Wea,Album Rock,Folk-Rock,Pop,Pop/Rock,Rock,Rock/Pop,Singer/Songwriter,Soft Rock,United States of America

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Paul Simon [Extra tracks] [Original recording remastered]

Average customer rating: great compilation - particularly for a car trip Sweet and Simple Paul Simon Redux

The Essential Paul Simon (2 CD/DVD) Paul Simon Manufacturer: Warner Bros / Wea ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Contemporary Folk | Folk | Styles | Music General | International | Styles | Music General | Pop | Styles | Music Singer-Songwriters | Pop | Styles | Music Soft Rock | Pop | Styles | Music Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music General | Adult Contemporary | Pop | Styles | Music Folk Rock | Rock | Styles | Music General | Rock | Styles | Music Album-Oriented Rock (AOR) | Classic Rock | Styles | Music Similar Items: The Best of Van Morrison Volume 3 Traveling Wilburys (2 CD / 1 DVD) The Police (2CD Anthology) Live In Dublin Instant Karma: The Amnesty International Campaign to Save Darfur ASIN: B000Q677EA Release Date: 2007-06-26

Tracks:

1. Mother And Child Reunion
2. Loves Me Like A Rock
3. Me And Julio Down By The School Yard
4. Duncan
5. Kodachrome
6. 50 Ways To Leave Your Lover
7. Slip Slidin' Away
8. Gone At Last
9. Something So Right
10. Late In The Evening
11. Hearts And Bones
12. Take Me To The Mardi Gras
13. That Was Your Mother
14. American Tune
15. Peace Like A River
16. Stranded In A Limousine
17. Train In The Distance
18. The Late Great Johnny Ace
19. Still Crazy After All These Years

Tracks:

1. Graceland
2. Diamonds On The Soles Of Her Shoes
3. The Boy In The Bubble
4. You Can Call Me Al
5. Under African Skies
6. The Obvious Child
7. Born At The Right Time
8. The Coo, Cool River
9. Spirit Voices
10. Adios Hermanos
11. Born In Puerto Rico
12. Quality
13. Darling Lorraine
14. Hurricane Eye
15. Father And Daughter
16. Outrageous
17. Wartime Prayers

Album Description

In celebration of Paul Simon's Gershwin Prize for Popular Song from the Library of Congress, The Essential Paul Simon brings together all of his hits and favorite tracks in the most expansive, solo career-spanning compilation issued for the two-time Rock and Roll Hall of Famer.

Customer Reviews:

great compilation - particularly for a car trip.......2007-07-14

I have a lot of Paul Simon CD's so you could say I didn't really need this two CD set. However, I make a 3 hour car trip a couple of times a year and when I saw this I immediately thought how great it would be to have these two CD's in the changer in the trunk for my next road trip. Its sort of a "greatest hits" but with some songs I've never heard before as well. It covers a long span of years and my only complaint is that it does not include the incredible song "Homeless".

Sweet and Simple.......2007-07-03

When it comes to music right now, there just really isn't anything that is actually exciting. While there are so many acts that just seem to get by on gloss like Beyonce', Britney Spears, and Usher, there just really isn'y anything anymore about songs and artists that just comes from the simplistic words themselves. There have been acts that have made great records, they just missed the cut when it comes to sales last year from Elton John, Rod Stewart, and Paul Simon. Although Paul has been recognized with great acheivements in music on his own, as a member of Simon & Garfunkel, he has truly made the music of our times, and this collection shows it.

The 2007 Essential Paul Simon is a double album reflection of what made Paul Simon's solo career so dynamic and universal. This was made in honor of his recent inagural Gershwin Award for Song, as well as his 35th anniverasry as a acclaimed solo artist. This collection follows in suit very nicely, and expands the effort delightfully that was made so well on his last solo hits package, 2002's On My Way. The songs here flow very nicely, and have all been remastered very well. All of his classics are highlighted here including the guilty pleasures 50 Ways To Leave Your Lover, You Can Call Me Al, The Boy In The Bubble, as well as down to Earth gems like Mother and Child Reunion, and his Oscar-nominated Father and Daughter from the Nickelodeon animated film The Wild Thornberries Movie, and his recently overlooked track Outrageous from his overshadowed 2006 album Surprise. This version also add in on the fun, by including some great music videos of his work and craftsmanship in songwriting like Diamonds On The Souls Of Her Shoes, and a rendidtion of the Simon & Garfunkel gem, Mrs. Robinson from the classic 70's The Dick Cavett Show.

All in all, The Essential Paul Simon really captures a delightful reflection on a career that has acclaimed for so many years, and also does a wonderful job at reintroducing one of the most legendary artists of the past five decades. If you haven't heard any of Paul Simon's music, than you really don't know what you've missed from a great icon like Paul. I absolutely recommend this hits collection a whole lot. You can still call him Al, but just call him a legend.

Album Cover: B+

Songs: A-

Price: A-

Remastering: A-

DVD: B 1/2+

Overall: B+

Paul Simon Redux.......2007-06-29

This is Paul simon cut right to the bone with no filler whatsoever! I enjoy everything on this collection and The Capeman stuff is good to finally have on cd! I compare this to the Traveling Wilbury's Collection that was recently released also w/ a DVD!! It's all very familiar but worth revisiting over and over again!

Average customer rating: Shining like a national guitar! Has there ever been a finer album? How do you make a good CD better? Paul Simon and the world make beautiful music together..... Graceland

Graceland Paul Simon Manufacturer: Rhino / Wea ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music General | International | Styles | Music General | Pop | Styles | Music Singer-Songwriters | Pop | Styles | Music Soft Rock | Pop | Styles | Music Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music General | Adult Contemporary | Pop | Styles | Music General | Rock | Styles | Music Rhino Records | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music Pop | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music Rock | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music Alternative Rock | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music International | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music All Blowout Music | Blowout Music | Stores | Music More Titles at Least 25% Off | Blowout Music | Stores | Music Similar Items: The Rhythm of the Saints Surprise Still Crazy After All These Years There Goes Rhymin' Simon The Best of Simon & Garfunkel ASIN: B0002EQ7E2 Release Date: 2004-07-27

Tracks:

1. The Boy In The Bubble
2. Graceland
3. I Know What I Know
4. Gumboots
5. Diamonds On The Soles Of Her Shoes
6. You Can Call Me Al
7. Under African Skies
8. Homeless
9. Crazy Love Vol. II
10. That Was Your Mother
11. All Around The World Or The Myth Of Fingerprints
12. Homeless (Demo)
13. Diamonds On The Soles Of Her Shoes
14. All Around The World Or The Myth Of Fingerprints

Amazon.com essential recording

The melding of South African styles and Simon's trademark sensibility made for one of the most intriguing albums--not to mention commercial hits--of the '80s. At once lively, thoughtful, gorgeous, and tough, Graceland acknowledges splits both in South Africa's social fabric and in Simon's personal life (the title track is a clear descendant of the earlier "Hearts and Bones," a song about the singer-songwriter's brief marriage to Carrie Fisher). Humor is hardly absent from the mix, though; witness the addled "I Know What I Know" and the fable-like "You Can Call Me Al." --Rickey Wright

Customer Reviews:

Shining like a national guitar!.......2007-07-21

Graceland is probably Paul Simon's last largely received work amid a truly prolific, terrific musical career. Although his most recent album "Surprise" is deservedly garnering much attention, "Graceland" will remain timeless forever. Its difficult to say difinitively which is Paul Simon's best solo album, afterall there are so many great ones. I am partial to "Hearts and Bones" and "You're the One" myself. Its like trying to pick the top five most magnificent crown jewels from the Tower of London! But this one must find it's way to a comfortable spot in anyone's top 5 of Simon.

Opening with "The Boy In the Bubble", I must confess not one of my favorite tracks, however a good song and universally well liked; it begins with a drumming of accordion unusual for Simon but well used throughout Graceland. This, morphed with a core beat that can't help but remind one of something strangely disco create a sound that, at the time, must have been cutting edge for Paul. Its unusual to me, but it works. Following is the title track, perhapse the best one in Simon's illustrious career, "Graceland". This is a fine song and if you haven't heard it in it's entirety, you should. These sample tracks are good, but you can only descern so much from them. "Graceland" deserves for everyone to hear it once, afterall when you mention Paul Simon to someone they will ultimitely say something like "Oh yeah, Graceland right?" His last, best song. "I Know What I Know" is humorous, entertaining Simon's more comical side as we all know he has one. Great fun, and slightly African sounding. "Gumboots" is perhapse even more fun, one of my favorites here. The lyrics, the reappearing, wheezing accordion in the background. It's just one of those fun songs. In the next track Simon puts on a slightly straighter face for "Diamonds On the Soles of Her Shoes". It openes slow and vocal, just Simon and the appearing Zulu singing group Ladysmith Black Mambazo with which he collaborated in this album for the slight African feel. A really cool song, and if you're lucky enough to purchase this album version with extra tracks, the demo with dominant base guitar is better. Many people will say that "You Can Call Me Al" is a 'weird' song. Maybe so, but you have to agree that it's also good. Like so many of these songs it is once again fun. "Under African Skies" and "Homeless" are the two predominately African style songs, both calm and enjoyable. "Homeless" is particularly good where we get the best view of Ladysmith Black Mambazo. "Crazy Love vol. 2" is graceful with it's guitar chords, and lyrics are as good as usual. "That Was Your Mother" skims the surface of cajun zydago influences of Simon and his version is also quite good, the same with "All Around the World".

And that's it save for the bonus songs, which are all demos and all enjoyable. This album piloted the group of foreign sounding musical themes that ensued, followed by "The Rhythm of the Saints" (South American), and "Songs From The Capeman" (Puerto Rican). I recommend checking them both out if you like Graceland. With a great artist like Paul Simon, you aren't bound to come across too many rotten apples!

Enjoy.

Has there ever been a finer album?.......2007-07-17

Paul Simon peaked with this masterwork. He will never return to this form.

"Graceland" is without equal. "Diamonds On the Soles of Her Shoes" is an idiosyncratic tour-de-force. "You Can Call Me Al" -- well, you already know that one.

If I had to rate all the CDs in my collection, this would be in the top three or four. It's so far beyond Simon's prior works, and so much better than today's dreck, it's difficult to explain.

How do you make a good CD better?.......2007-07-12

Just let Paul Simon remaster it and add a few new redone tracks just for kicks! This is, perhaps, one of the top 100 greatest CDs of all time. Many times when artists(or "record companies") go back and "re-issue" good albums, they make them worse. Most times it's better to leave well enough alone. This is the exception. The remastering brings forward all the great and varied sounds of this album and the extra tracks are just a treat! Highly recommended!

Paul Simon and the world make beautiful music together............2007-06-08

GRACELAND was such a great concept, and it made an even better album! I am so glad that Paul Simon pursued the beautiful idea to meld his songwriting abilities, vocals and distinctive sound with the sounds of other great musicians like Lady Smith Black Mambaza (from South Africa) and Los Lobos (a Mexican-American band, melding Mexican flavor with soul/rock and roll). It sounds terrific.

All of the songs are beautiful for different reasons, but I will give you a few good reasons to skip around on your copy of the CD. "Diamonds on the Soles of Her Shoes" (featuring LadySmith Black Mambaza) is a cross between calypso, rock and South African high life, "You Can Call Me Al" is straight up, one of the most enjoyable bits of storytelling and Caribbean flavored tunes I have ever heard, "Homeless" has a killer introduction by Lady Smith, once again, and "All Around The World" warmly adds Los Lobos into the mix, for a great album closer. The only sad note is that the music is over way too soon.

Graceland.......2007-05-13

The product is what I expected. It arrived on time and in the condition advertised.

Average customer rating: Like a bridge over troubled water... Take me back A Personal Favorite A 6-Star Greatest Hits Package Not as good as the twenty-song best-of, but worth a look.

Simon & Garfunkel - Greatest Hits Simon & Garfunkel Manufacturer: Sony ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music General | Folk | Styles | Music General | Pop | Styles | Music Singer-Songwriters | Pop | Styles | Music Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music Folk Rock | Rock | Styles | Music General | Rock | Styles | Music General | Classic Rock | Styles | Music $8.99 and Under | Blowout Music | Stores | Music Pop | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music Classic Rock | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music Rock | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music Alternative Rock | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music All Blowout Music | Blowout Music | Stores | Music $8.99 and Under | Prices | Blowout Music | Stores | Music More Titles at Least 25% Off | Blowout Music | Stores | Music Similar Items: James Taylor: Greatest Hits Cat Stevens - Greatest Hits Bridge Over Troubled Water The Best of Simon & Garfunkel Sounds of Silence ASIN: B0000024YL Release Date: 1990-10-25

Tracks:

1. Mrs. Robinson
2. For Emily, Whenever I May Find Her
3. Boxer
4. 59th Street Bridge Song (Feelin' Groovy)
5. Sound of Silence
6. I Am a Rock
7. Scarborough Fair/Canticle
8. Homeward Bound
9. Bridge over Troubled Water
10. America
11. Kathy's Song
12. Condor Pasa (If I Could)
13. Bookends Theme
14. Cecilia

Amazon.com

Simon & Garfunkel have two 3-CD box sets collecting their entire career output, one with out-takes and live recordings, but the duo who were among the bestselling acts of the 1960s only recorded five studio albums throughout the entire 1960s! Their studio perfectionism is never better served than here. This greatest hits is simple and to the point, a perfect collection for anyone looking to get the basic idea (and hits) without committing to a more serious relationship. The harmonies, Paul Simon's masterful songwriting, Garfunkel's soaring choirboy voice, are all here. --Rob O'Connor

Customer Reviews:

Like a bridge over troubled water..........2006-12-04

When you're weary, feelin' small
When tears are in your eyes, I will dry them all.
I'm on your side, Oh, when times get rough
And friends just can't be found.
Like a bridge over troubled waters
I will lay me down.
Like a bridge over troubled waters
I will lay me down.

When you're down and out, when you're on the street
When evening falls so hard, I will comfort you.
I'll take your part, Oh when darkness comes
And pain is all around
Like a bridge over troubled waters
I will lay me down.
Like a bridge over troubled waters
I will lay me down.

Sail on children, sail on by
Your time has come to shine, all their dreams are on their way
See how they shine, Oh when you need a friend
I'm sailing right behind
Like a bridge over troubled waters
I will ease your mind
Like a bridge over troubled waters,
I will ease your mind.
I'll ease your mind.

The music of Simon and Garfunkel remains relevant, beautiful and poignant to this day. They sang well and when they sang you listened carefully because their music and their message were invariably important. This CD proves it.

The CD starts off with the classic "Mrs. Robinson;" this song was featured in the 1968 movie entitled The Graduate. The musical arrangement is very well done and their ability to harmonize to perfection makes this song a classic. The CD then switches gears for the slower paced love ballad "For Emily, Whenever I May Find Her."

Other classic songs on this CD include "The Boxer;" "The Sound Of Silence;" "Scarborough Fair/Canticle;" the song "Bridge Over Troubled Water" with its opulent orchestral musical arrangement; "America" and a very rockin' song entitled "Cecilia." "Cecilia" is a strong song; it offers an upbeat melody that does not match the story of frustration a man feels about his girlfriend. Nevertheless, this song shines and it is a fine choice to end the album.

"Bridge Over Troubled Water" deserves special note as one of the greatest ballads of all time. I can hardly think of another song that is so soothing. The singer promises comfort, unconditional love and support to his partner whenever it is necessary. It boasts a grand musical arrangement and Simon and Garfunkel perform this song with such sensitivity that you won't easily forget it.

The sound quality is excellent and the pictures of Simon and Garfunkel are nicely done. Art's choirboy voice actually has a fairly good range to it and Paul Simon's voice is strong and vibrant.

One reviewer comments that they didn't care for the applause at the end of two songs. There are live tracks on this album. "For Emily, Whenever I May Find Her," "The 59th Street Bridge Song (Feelin' Groovy)" and "Homeward Bound" are live tracks. In addition, "Kathy's Song" has applause at the beginning of the song but not at the end--was the ending applause edited out of this track? It's a small point, however, as the quality of their work never diminishes because of the sporadic applause on this CD. I personally like the way they chose some live tracks along with some studio tracks for this CD.

The liner notes don't offer much; then again, Simon and Garfunkel sing so clearly that you hardly need the lyrics written down for you. A brief essay about their work together would have been helpful but again this is a small point.

I highly recommend this CD as an excellent single CD retrospective of Simon and Garfunkel's best work when they performed together. It is also a wonderful CD for Paul Simon fans, Art Garfunkel fans, and fans of folk rock.

Take me back.......2006-11-04

True lyrical meaning and BEAUTIFUL vocal harmony sum up the core of this album. The guitar is strummed with intention and ease, and the songs are all classics that you have surely heard one time or another. I could listen to it over and over again. I wish these guys were still making music together.

A Personal Favorite.......2006-11-03

Simon & Garfunkel were a ground-breaking duo! This album is LOADED with super songs and has been at the top of my favorite albums for over a quarter century.

A 6-Star Greatest Hits Package.......2006-07-15

This is one of the soundtracks to my life. This great compilation has been with me since I first heard it coming from my parents speakers 30+ years ago. I wore out my LP copy in my late twenties and snatched up a CD copy shortly thereafter...it remains close to me and my player to this day. Melancholy, somber, jubilant, hopeful, happy...these are just a few words to describe this album and the emotions it evokes while listening to it. Many great reviews have been posted on this wonderful Hits package and its obvious that it has almost "universal" appeal. Most of the reviews here resonate with the same tone---"this album is so much a part of my life". Without going into individual songs, I'll say that I enjoy every song from start to finish. This is really timeless music that will continue to reach new generations of listeners and will remain very special to me for decades to come....enjoy this(your not likely to find the 'Magic' these two gentlemen had in today's artists).

Not as good as the twenty-song best-of, but worth a look........2006-06-23

I once had a friend (he quickly turned into an @$$hole but that's off-topic) who thought I was insane because I like Simon & Garfunkel. His logic was along the lines of "If it's not crushingly loud, it sucks". As I walked away, I told him he should expand his musical horizons. He gave me the finger and called me some things that should never be mentioned on a family website.
Aaaanyway, this is a roundup of Simon & Garfunkel's hit singles, including some of their best (Mrs. Robinson, The Boxer, Bridge Over Troubled Water, The Sound of Silence, I Am A Rock, Homeword Bound, El Condor Pasa, Cecilia). It also contains some of their worst (For Emily Whenever I May Find Her, Kathy's Song), but hey. It's just hit singles. Which is a problem, because some of their best songs were their album tracks: At the Zoo, The Only Living Boy In New York, Punky's Dilemma, Patterns, So Long Frank Lloyd Wright, Baby Driver, Keep the Customer Satisfied, He Was My Brother, You Don't Know Where Your Interest Lies and several others weren't released in single format. But this is a good way to start, though I also think you should pick up the box set which has all of their albums plus a few bonus tracks, that one's a good buy! Or, if you don't feel like buying a box set, the twenty-track Best of Simon and Garfunkel is on the market for a modest price, as is the two-disc Tales From New York (which is also good).

Average customer rating: A thoroughly enjoyable CD Every song is real in this new creation Genius! I'll write a PROPER review later... If good lyrics means repeating the same line over and over, then yes, Paul Simon's new album is genius.

Surprise Paul Simon Manufacturer: Warner Bros / Wea ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music General | Pop | Styles | Music Singer-Songwriters | Pop | Styles | Music Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music General | Adult Contemporary | Pop | Styles | Music Adult Alternative | Pop | Styles | Music General | Rock | Styles | Music Similar Items: All the Roadrunning We Shall Overcome: The Seeger Sessions Taking The Long Way Living With War Modern Times ASIN: B000F0UV1S Release Date: 2006-05-09

Tracks:

1. How Can You Live In the Northeast
2. Everything About It Is A Love Song
3. Outrageous
4. Sure Don't Feel Like Love
5. Wartime Prayers
6. Beautiful
7. I Don't Believe
8. Another Galaxy
9. Once Upon A Time There Was An Ocean
10. That's Me
11. Father And Daughter

Amazon.com

Since severing his epochal partnership with Art Garfunkel, Paul Simon's solo career been characterized by restless reinvention. But while it's easy to see such disparate, cross-cultural collaborations as Graceland and Rhythm of the Saints as Simon's quest for new creative partnerships, beneath them lies a more crucial willingness to continually challenge the very assumptions and craft of his own songwriting. Six years after his sublime, underappreciated You're the One Simon has pushed that sensibility into a rewarding, if equally unlikely, partnership with Brian Eno. Yet the former Roxy Music texturalist cum contemporary producer/sound conjurer supreme (aided by such stellar sidemen as Bill Frisell, Herbie Hancock and Steve Gadd) offers barely half the "surprises" here.

The playful "Sure Don't Feel Like Love" argues Simon can still beckon his more traditional pop muse at will. Yet some of his best work here turns as much on hypnotic, if no less politically pointed, quasi-spoken word pieces (like "Wartime Prayers" and the gripping, post 9/11 rumination "How Can You Live in the Northeast?") as traditional songcraft. Eno is credited with providing "Sonic Landscape" to Simon's production, but also co-wrote three tracks, infusing "Another Galaxy" with contrasting doses of bracing energy and ethereal elegance, while seasoning the more traditional folk musings of "Once Upon a Time There Was An Ocean" with infectious electro-funk rhythms. "Outrageous," their best full collaboration, suggests that while Eno and Simon may approach world music - and indeed most pop forms - from polar extremes, the common ground they find is truly elevated. In an era when many of his peers are content to craft mere artistic comebacks, Simon's re-emergence here is a bold, compelling step forward. --Jerry McCulley

Recommended Paul Simon

The Studio Recordings 1972-2000 [BOX SET]	The Rhythm of the Saints	There Goes Rhymin' Simon
Graceland	Negotiations and Love Songs 1971-1986	Still Crazy After All These Years

Album Description

Among the most popular artists and greatest songwriters of our time, Paul Simon returns with his first album in six years—and the album titled Surprise is exactly that. First, three songs were co-written with electronic music guru Brian Eno; second, the other songs are straightforward, wonderfully American pop. Surprise is a pleasant surprise for Simon fans.

Customer Reviews:

A thoroughly enjoyable CD.......2007-07-18

I am 55 years old, and have enjoyed Paul Simon since I can remember. This album is some of his finest work. It demonstrates his great poetic skills as well as strong composition and vocals that are powerful, understated, evocative and poignant all at once.

Opening with How Can You Live in the Northeast, you immediately are involved in the profound thought process this man brings to his music. It asks rhetorical questions of all, and answers (to the degree allowed), with "names and religion come just after date of birth." The real puzzle to me is the last line about wearing his father's old coat. I suspect this is a metaphor, which leaves me guessing as I expect was his intent.

Everything About it is a Lovesong is a beautiful melody which seems to be a bit of an introspect of Paul himself. "Make a wish and close your eyes: surprise, surprise, surprise."

Outrageous is a rant that becomes a touching redemption.

Sure Don't Feel Like Love is interesting, but I'm not sure of the overall meaning. The part about "wrong again", though, will certainly ring a bell with most of us.

Wartime Prayers is a deeply moving hymn-like piece. In it, there is a line that has moved me like perhaps no other line in my experience. "Because you cannot walk with the holy if you're just a halfway decent man." Oh my, that's one to remember!

Beautiful is, well, beautiful. It really showcases Paul's voice and humor, and his love of family.

I Don't Believe is another very powerful number suggesting that we should follow the Golden Rule in our everyday lives.

Another Galaxy examines the difficulty of changing roads in life. It reminds me of the sentiment of the Beatle's "She's Leaving Home".

Once Upon a Time There Was an Ocean is interesting and well done. The overiding theme seems to be that no matter how much things change, it's still all the same.

That's Me might have been the finale (as it seems to be a personal summary), but I believe Paul saved one other song for that honor:

Father and Daughter is a touching tribute to the special love therin. There is some beautiful backup vocal on this song listed as Adrian Simon (my guess is this would be Paul's lovely daughter)

Notice in the booklet of lyrics that every word which has to do with water is bold.

Every time I listen to this CD, I am moved. Very well done piece indeed.

Every song is real in this new creation.......2007-06-18

Meet the new Paul Simon of the new millenium. This is the man's best work since "You're The One". Yes, that was his last studio release, but he's just that good. Like Midas, everything he touches turns to gold. But this time its a different layer of Paul Simon, a totally new, unexpected sound completely different from anything he has ever done. For a long time I avoided this album because of that new sound. It just wasn't the good old Paul Simon that I knew so well. What actually got me into this CD was my Dad, a fellow Paul Simon listener. He checked it out a couple of times from our library, and after I heard the music in the background a few times, I began to really like it and found myself wanting to hear it as soon as it was over. One of those CDs that sticks around in your head until you buy it. So buy it I did, and I've had a lot of good listening from it since. Its just all in how you look at it. If you're searching for the old Paul Simon you won't appreciate it at first listen. But if you can embrace it for being something new and give it a chance, it will rapidly grow on you.

Beginning with "How Can You Live In the Northeast?", Simon sets the new tone. If you look close enough you can see that the underlying note here is 9/11. Simon claims in an interview a year ago that he was profoundly affected by those tragic events, as were we all, and found it difficult to write anything 'real' as he described since. This explains his long absence since "You're the One". So he decided to write what he deemed as 'the truth', and certainly these song communicate as more heartfelt. In this song Simon simply poses the question, "How can you live in the Northeast?". Next is one of the best songs on the entire album. "Everything About It Is a Love Song" begins with two simple guitar chordes and builds to a very nice beat, with even better lyrics, which is this songs biggest strength. "We don't mean to mess things up but mess them up we do" Simon lyricises truthfully. Continuing with the trend, the songs get even better here with "Outrageous", the particular song that really hooked me onto this album. And believe me when I say that this is one of Paul Simon's all time best songs ever. Like a shock of cold water this song immediately grabs your attention, and again Simon writes it so truthfully, the theme being "Who's gonna love you when your looks are gone?". I saw the live version of this one that he sang on The David Letterman Show which was absolutely great. Check it out. "Sure Don't Feel Like Love" and "Beautiful" stand out as the best of the next four tracks, and then we come to "Another Galaxy". Brian Eno saves his best magic for this one as the sound is amazing. Throw in Simon's stellar guitar chordes and you've got yourself another masterpiece. The second best song on here.
To end on a really wonderful note, this last song continues with the pledge of genuinity where Simon crones about his love for his daughter, while his son sings backup vocals in this one. Unlike corny versions of father-child tracks sung by lesser artists, this one is sophisticated. It doesn't try to be something it's not. It is simply honest. Refreshing and very well written. I think Adrian might have inherited Simon's singing qualities too.

So there you have it. A fresh new coat of Paul Simon called "Surprise". One of the best albums of the year. Be sure to check it out more than I did. You just might be surprised.

Its good to have you back Paul!

Genius!.......2007-06-07

Fabulous! Paul Simon has done it again. His ability to create NEW music while maintaining his compelling style (lyrics and sound combinations). This guy is 'the-bomb'! I would never hesitate to buy his music. I like the way he thinks (his perspective), then in turn, how he makes me think.

I'm sittng here enjoying this disc and just had to share how much I'm loving it!

I'll write a PROPER review later..........2007-06-05

I haven't "lived with" this one long enough to give this an absolute star ranking but I found it to be "edgier" than Simon's been in years musically and it was probably the most exciting thing from him since The Rhythm of the Saints. (I thought YOU'RE THE ONE was kind of bland)

As such, I'll give an unqualified recommendation that you borrow this one from a friend or your local library if you have any Simon in your library outside of anthologies. It's certainly worth hearing and I'm likely to be adding it to my own collection.

If good lyrics means repeating the same line over and over, then yes, Paul Simon's new album is genius........2007-05-27

There are a few nice little melodies here and there, but overall this cd stinks. It's like a more watered down version of Nickleback. They sing a verse and then basically just repeat it for two or three minutes until they get tired of singing the same verse over and over again. Paul Simon, he makes it seem not as random as Nickleback does, but it's still pretty bad. It sounds better then Nickleback, but that's still not good.

How do you live in the Northeast is a horribe song. I understood what it was trying to say, I don't think anyone wouldn't get it if they listened to it. It was a pointless, political song that just kept asking the same questions over and over again. "Outrageous" was a good song. It was funny, but it was plagued with the same repetition that most of the tracks seem to suffer from.

It's nice and smooth and it goes down easy, but old Paul Simon beats this new stuff anyday.

Average customer rating: Paul Simon - King of Recycling The Definitive Collection Nearly flawless Call Him A Legend, Don't Just Call Him Al

The Essential Paul Simon Paul Simon Manufacturer: Warner Bros / Wea ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Contemporary Folk | Folk | Styles | Music General | International | Styles | Music General | Pop | Styles | Music Singer-Songwriters | Pop | Styles | Music Soft Rock | Pop | Styles | Music Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music General | Adult Contemporary | Pop | Styles | Music Folk Rock | Rock | Styles | Music General | Rock | Styles | Music Album-Oriented Rock (AOR) | Classic Rock | Styles | Music Similar Items: The Best of Van Morrison Volume 3 Memory Almost Full The Best of Simon & Garfunkel The Essential Paul Simon (2 CD/DVD) Greatest Hits, Vol. 1 & 2 ASIN: B000Q677E0 Release Date: 2007-06-26

Tracks:

1. Mother And Child Reunion
2. Loves Me Like a Rock
3. Me And Julio Down By The School Yard
4. Duncan
5. Kodachrome
6. 50 Ways To Leave Your Lover
7. Slip Slidin' Away
8. Gone At Last
9. Something So Right
10. Late In the Evening
11. Hearts And Bones
12. Take Me To the Mardi Gras
13. That Was Your Mother
14. American Tune
15. Peace Like a River
16. Stranded In a Limousine
17. Train In the Distance
18. The Late Great Johnny Ace
19. Still Crazy After All These Years

Tracks:

1. Graceland
2. Diamonds On the Soles Of Her Shoes
3. The Boy In the Bubble
4. You Can Call Me Al
5. Under African Skies
6. The Obvious Child
7. Born At the Right Time
8. The Coo, Cool River
9. Spirit Voices
10. Adios Hermanos
11. Born In Puerto Rico
12. Quality
13. Darling Lorraine
14. Hurricane Eye
15. Father And Daughter
16. Outrageous
17. Wartime Prayers

Album Description

In celebration of Paul Simon's Gershwin Prize for Popular Song from the Library of Congress, The Essential Paul Simon brings together all of his hits and favorite tracks in the most expansive, solo career-spanning compilation issued for the two-time Rock and Roll Hall of Famer.

Customer Reviews:

Paul Simon - King of Recycling.......2007-07-03

The quoted section of this review was originally written by me about Simon's previous greatest hits compilation ("The Paul Simon Collection: On My Way, Don't Know Where I'm Goin'") in 2003:

"Since going solo about 1970, Paul Simon has released (maybe) 7 albums of new material.

"And about a dozen greatest hits or live packages.

"(Live Rhymin', Greatest Hits Etc, Negotiations & Love Songs, Concert in Central Park, Shining Like a National Guitar, + a box set & at least 5 Simon & Garfunkel repackages, for those who doubt me.)

"Listen, I love Paul's music, but Graceland was recorded before Avril Lavigne was born, and only the die-hard Simon fans can rhyme off anything significant he has released since then."

"If they were going to release yet another GH package, why didn't Columbia follow the recent tradition of the 2-CD "The Essential" series, and at least "Keep The Customer Satisfied". That way they could have filled 1.5 CDs with tracks from his first album, Still Crazy, Rhymin' Simon, and Graceland, and still had 40 minutes for more recent works that, frankly, fewer people care for."

"Or maybe that's in the works for his 13th repackage. In about 2 years, at the current rate.
-- End of old review quote.

Other than my timing being off by 2 years, that's exactly what has happened. Columbia seems to have listened to me.

The 13th reshuffling of Paul Simon hits is, thankfully, the best. Add in the Simon & Garfunkel Old Friends boxset and you've got his career nicely covered.

The Definitive Collection.......2007-06-28

Maybe the Essential Paul Simon Collection should hve been titled, The Definitive Paul Simon since it is the most definitive collection of all his single and double C.D. collections. All previous collections either completely omit the songs, Duncan and American Tune (both radio hits) or else substitute them for live versions. In fact, this collection presents these two songs (and all others) in their original, album-length, studio versions. Also included here are the minor hits, Gone At Last (with Phoebe Snow) and Stranded In A Limosine, both largely ignored songs on other P.S. compilations. It is interesting that one of the P.S. "fan favorites." Take Me To The Mardi Gras, was released as a U.K. single, simultaneously with the U.S. single, Kodachrome. Both became top ten hits in their respective countries. It is nice to see all the single A-sides from the seventies included here.

One caveat is that Paul Simon songs from the early eighties are sparsely represented here. Only one of the three singles from One Trick Pony is represented (Late In The Evening, of course). And strangely, NO singles from the 1983 album, Hearts And Bones were included, despite the fact that Allergies was a moderate, radio hit. Hearts And Bones was originally intended to be a Simon and Garfunkel reunion album but that conception of the album never materialized. However, three key tracks from H & B are included: Train In A Distance (one of my favorite P.S. songs and is still played in malls across America), the title track (another favorite) and The Late Great Johnny Ace (a tribute to rock and roll legends with a coda performed by Philip Glass). There was ample room on disc one to have included another song, perhaps One Trick Pony, Think Too Much (b) or Rene and Georgette Magritte....

On the other hand, songs from the albums Graceland and Rhythm Of The Saints are well represented in the collection. And of course, it was the Graceland album that drew attention to the African musical group, Ladysmith Black Mambazo (their Shaka Zulu album is very fine, especially if you like Graceland).

Paul Simon's diverse, musical influences are very apparent in the song selections. These musical styles range from reggae (Mother And Child Reunion),to Gospel ( Loves Me Like A Rock), to Latin-American (Me And Julio Down By The Schoolyard and Late In The Evening), to zydeco (That Was Your Mother) to South African (Diamonds On The Soles Of Her Shoes), ro rockabilly (Graceland). Even with all his diversity of musical styles, my preference leans toward his pop ballads, especially from the seventies and early eighties.

While the sound quality of this C.D. is not crisp in its detail, it does have a warm, clean and natural sound. This C.D. was released in celebration of Paul Simon's acceptance of the First-ever Gershwin Prize for Popular Song, from the Library of Congress. I highly recommend this collection!

Nearly flawless.......2007-06-26

The Essential Paul Simon contains nearly every Paul Simon track you could ever want, but it does omit the minor hits "Allergies" and "(What A) Wonderful World". This is truly a fitting collection to one of popular music's greatest songwriters.

Call Him A Legend, Don't Just Call Him Al.......2007-06-26

WIth the past few years, we really haven't seen much in the way of great sales from older acts like Elton John, Rod Stewart and Ozzy Osbourne. Although they've made great albums, people would rather seem more interested in acts that are more about hype like Kelly Clarkson, Britney Spears, Usher, and the sleezy socialite who really has no career, Paris Hilton. That hasn't left much in the way of great performers like Paul Simon. Spanning nearly 6 decades of great music, Paul's music is more meaningful, and still remains straight from the heart. Recently, he celebrated his 35th anniversary as a solo act, and won the honorable 1st ever Gershwin Prize for Song for his melodic style, we are often forgetful about his real talent of songwriting and craftsmanship, and this hits record shows that trail well.

The 2007 Essential Paul Simon, is a double album that expands very well from his previous single disc album On My Way, and brilliantly shows his era as one of the best songwriters of our times. The collection includes tracks from his first hits from the 1970's, all the way to his recent record, Surprise. The songs in the collection are remastered very well, and reflect on his career nicely. The album includes great classics including Me & Julio Down By The School Yard, his guilty pleasure gem You Can Call Me Al, the driven-styled Graceland, Slip Slidin' Away, as well as recent tunes like Outrageous, and his Oscar-nominated surprise hit Father And Daughter from the 2004 animated Nickelodeon film The Wild Thornberries Movie. The collection really does feel like a walk down memory lane, and reminds people of true songwriting that isn't about looks or selling yourself out in endorsements, it is about heart.

Although the album doesn't at all reflect on any memories as part of the duo Simon & Garfunkel, it is all about Paul and his solo efforts on this album, and it works very nicely. If you haven't heard any of his albums like Graceland, or Still Crazy After All These Years, you missed a really wonderful era of great music. The Essential Paul Simon is a must buy for nostalgia buffs, and new listeners alike to Paul Simon's genius. I absolutely recommend this greatest hits album as it is one of the best records released this year.

Album Cover: B

Songs: B+

Price: B 1/2-

Remastering: A-

Overall: B 1/2+

Average customer rating: Awesome Worthy Purchase Enjoyable Excellent collection marred only by some missing tracks still a great single disc collection of Simon's best Yet Another Paul Simon Anthology

The Paul Simon Collection: On My Way, Don't Know Where I'm Goin' Paul Simon Manufacturer: Warner Brothers ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Contemporary Folk | Folk | Styles | Music General | International | Styles | Music General | Pop | Styles | Music Singer-Songwriters | Pop | Styles | Music Soft Rock | Pop | Styles | Music Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music General | Adult Contemporary | Pop | Styles | Music Folk Rock | Rock | Styles | Music General | Rock | Styles | Music Album-Oriented Rock (AOR) | Classic Rock | Styles | Music $8.99 and Under | Blowout Music | Stores | Music Pop | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music Classic Rock | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music Rock | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music International | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music All Blowout Music | Blowout Music | Stores | Music $8.99 and Under | Prices | Blowout Music | Stores | Music More Titles at Least 25% Off | Blowout Music | Stores | Music Similar Items: The Best of Simon & Garfunkel Surprise Graceland The Essential Simon & Garfunkel The Rhythm of the Saints ASIN: B00006LI2R Release Date: 2002-11-05

Tracks:

1. Mother And Child Reunion
2. Me And Julio Down By The Schoolyard
3. Kodachrome
4. Something So Right
5. Loves Me Like A Rock
6. 50 Ways To Leave Your Lover
7. Still Crazy After All These Years
8. Late In The Evening
9. Slip Slidin' Away
10. Hearts And Bones
11. Diamonds On The Soles Of Her Shoes (Single Version)
12. The Boy In The Bubble (Single Version)
13. Graceland
14. You Can Call Me Al
15. Spirit Voices
16. The Cool, Cool, River
17. Adios Hermanos
18. Love
19. Hurricane Eye

Customer Reviews:

Awesome.......2007-01-09

If you are a Paul Simon fan this is the collection to have!! It has all of the great hits. I am very happy with this purchase. My husband & I trade it back & forth. Everytime I look for it it is in his car CD player. I highly recommend it.

Worthy Purchase.......2006-11-25

I think Paul Simon is an underrated artist. This ensemble is reflective of his ability to create music of different flavors such as Reggae ("Mother and Child Reunion" that could easily be a Bob Marley song) and A capella ("Adios Hermanos").

I got this CD because of "You can call me Al", heard the other tracks and was blown away. Notable tracks include "Mother And Child Reunion", "Adios Hermanos" - (that is based on the true story of the Capeman Murders. For more on the Capeman Murders, google "Salvador Agron"), "Spirit Voices" and "Late in the Evening".

Worthy purchase

Enjoyable.......2006-08-22

Paul Simon has a great range of styles. Sure he is labeled folk music but in his many travels he has picked up different styles of music and infused them with his own style and you get a taste of this in the CD "The Paul Simon Collection: On My Way, Don't Know Where I'm Goin.'"

Excellent collection marred only by some missing tracks still a great single disc collection of Simon's best.......2006-08-15

There's no way a "Best of" can be perfect. Fans are always going to disagree about what's missing or what great song didn't make the album. Overall this collection gets it right more often than wrong unlike the two previous "Best of" collections that Simon has put together.

We get two of the strongest tracks from Simon's first album and they were singles as well. "Mother and Child Reunion" and "Me and Julio Down by the Schoolyard" both demonstrate that Simon was making World Music long before the term was created. "Kodachrome" and "Loves Me Like a Rock" were strong singles from Simon's second album and they are aided by a wistful ballad "Something So Right" covered by Annie Lennox which is probably why it was included. "50 Ways To Leave Your Lover" and "Still Crazy After All These Years" were highlights from Simon's third solo album. Missing in action is "My Little Town" a Simon & Garfunkel "reunion" single that both men put on their respective albums. It still should be here as it's a great song.

Although "One Trick Pony" isn't Simon's best album is one or two omissions ("How the Heart Approaches What It Yearns", "Oh Marion") that should have been included from that album besides the brilliant "Late in the Evening". "Slip Slidin' Away" is from Simon's first collection "Greatest Hits, Etc". What's missing here is the brilliant "Stranded in a Limousine" (which incidently DOES show up as a bonus track on "One Trick Pony"). All definitely deserve to be here. Really this should have been a full two disc set with the live tracks thrown on to the second CD with these other tracks.

We get the powerful "Hearts and Bones" the title track from Simon's fourth solo album (fifth if you count the Paul Simon Songbook a collection of S&G songs he recorded before the duo broke through)but I miss "Allergies" which, from what I recall, was a single. The brilliant "Graceland" is well represented with "Diamonds on the Soles of Her Shoes", "The Boy in the Bubble", "Graceland" and "You Can Call Me Al" all strong songs that got considerable airplay. The selections from "Rhythm of the Saints" is perfect except for the single "The Obvious Child" which seemed like an obvious inclusion on this set.

We close out the album with "Adios Hermanos" from "Songs from the Caveman" and two tunes from Simon's "The One". Both are solid selections overall. Early editions of this terrific album come with a second disc with live tracks featuring "American Tune", "Duncan","The Coast", "Mrs. Robinson" and "Bridge Over Troubled Water" live.

"Shining Like a National Guitar" features "The Obvious Child" if you want that track as well as "Bernadette", "Take Me To the Madrdi Gras", "Trailways Bus", "Rene and Georgette Magritte with Their God After the War" all of which aren't collected here. That album is missing some great material that's included here so, again, between those tracks the ones I mentioned and the live tracks we could have had a perfect "Best of". There is also a two disc "Best of" available as an important which I'd recommend. It digs into the Simon & Garfunkel catalog as well making it, aside from the boxed set, the single set with the most depth (although it lacks anything from Simon's last two albums).

Despite these minor flaws this is probably the best single collection of Simon's best songs available and very generous at that. Definitely worth picking up particularly if you want an album that has the bulk of his best album tracks and single all together in one spot.

Yet Another Paul Simon Anthology.......2006-07-15

Since I already own the (overpriced but good) Paul Simon CD box set--and most of his solo recordings prior to Graceland, in their recently reissued form--I'm not sure if there's any point in getting this.

I wonder, though, about that five-track bonus disc. Is the live version of "American Tune" the same one which appeared on a briefly-available "best of" collection from Simon called "Greatest Hits etc.", which was primarily noteworthy for its inclusion of the track (not available elsewhere, so far as I know) "Stranded In a Limousine"? I always liked that version of "American Tune" better than either the studio version, or the live version from "Live Rhymin'".

But the (even more briefly-available) CD of "Greatest Hits etc." sounds terrible--as do most CDs from the early digital era. (Nothing especially bad about this release in particular: producers, engineers and presssing plants just didn't know how to make good CDs yet.)

If it IS that version, in a better-mastered form: that alone would likely be reason enough for me to buy yet another Simon collection. In the meantime, I'm more likely to spend my money on something new like Surprise.

Five stars because any collection of Paul Simon songs is bound to be good, even though I personally might not need it.

Average customer rating: You have no option but to dance

United We Swing Spanish Harlem Orchestra Manufacturer: Six Degrees ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | International | Styles | Music Mexico | International | Styles | Music General | Latin Music | Styles | Music Salsa | Latin Music | Styles | Music Similar Items: En Primera Plana Un Gran Dia en el Barrio Arroz Con Habichuela Rumba Palace Raise Your Hand ASIN: B000P6R868 Release Date: 2007-05-15

Tracks:

1. S.H.O Intro
2. Llego La Orquesta
3. En El Tiempo Del Palladium
4. Se Formo La Rumba
5. Sacala Bailar
6. Ahora Si
7. Que Bonito
8. Salsa Pa'l Bailador
9. Mujer Divina
10. Soy Candela
11. Plena Con Sabor
12. Danzon For My Father
13. Late In the Evening

Amazon.com

Spanish Harlem Orchestra's United We Swing does more than just make you want to dance. The joyous collection will likely incite a full-scale house party, complete with flowy dresses, sparkly jewelry, and silky, unbuttoned shirts. The disc plays like an actual live performance, a tight mix of passion and precision. Bandleader Oscar Hernandez even introduces the entire outfit on the opening track. Horns blare, percussion pulses, and a voice of choruses guides several numbers. If nothing else, take a listen to the trio of "Sacala Bailar," "Ahora Si," and "Que Bonito," which comes midway through the disc, for an idea of SHO's sparkling seamlessness. "Danzon For My Father" is a touching instrumental tribute, and the bilingual "Late in the Evening-Tarde en la Noche" features an inspired guest spot by Paul Simon, who matches the group's swelling enthusiasm. Swing does just that--and so much more. --Joey Guerra

Customer Reviews:

You have no option but to dance.......2007-05-23

Since their arrival in 2000, Spanish Harlem Orchestra (SHO) has established itself as a standard bearer of contemporary Latin music. Directed by world-renowned pianist, arranger, and producer Oscar Hernández, the thirteen-member all-star ensemble has reintroduced the classic sounds of New York City Salsa to music lovers worldwide. United We Swing, SHO's third album, is a stunning follow-up to their 2004 Grammy award-winning album Across 110th St., and their 2002 Grammy nominated debut, Un Gran Día En El Barrio.

On United We Swing, Spanish Harlem Orchestra continues in the same classic-meets-contemporary sound, but with refreshing originality. Nine of the songs are original compositions grounded in the unique identity the band has forged based on the musical legacy of El Barrio, a pulsating Eastside community in NYC located to the south of 125th St that gave rise to Boogaloo, Latin Soul, and Salsa.

Average customer rating: The Best Album in a Lifetime the rhythm still moves me fifteen years later..... A subversive album The Rhythm of the Saints a good album

The Rhythm of the Saints Paul Simon Manufacturer: Rhino / Wea ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music General | International | Styles | Music General | Pop | Styles | Music Singer-Songwriters | Pop | Styles | Music Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music General | Adult Contemporary | Pop | Styles | Music General | Rock | Styles | Music Rhino Records | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music Similar Items: Graceland Surprise There Goes Rhymin' Simon Still Crazy After All These Years Paul Simon ASIN: B0002EQ7EC Release Date: 2004-07-27

Tracks:

1. The Obvious Child
2. Can't Run But
3. The Coast
4. Proof
5. Further To Fly
6. She Moves On
7. Born At The Right Time
8. The Cool, Cool River
9. Spirit Voices
10. The Rhythm Of The Saints
11. Born At The Right Time (Original Acoustic Demo)
12. Thelma (Outtake)
13. The Coast (Work-In-Progress)
14. Spirit Voices (Work-In-Progress)

Album Description

In a remarkable career spanning six decades, singer-songwriter Paul Simon has amassed 9 Grammy awards and has been inducted in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame twice. The first occasion recognized has brilliant work as one half of Simon & Garfunkel. Simon's second induction, in 2001, heralded his equally massive contributions as a solo artist and composer. The songwriter's solo catalog is one of the most diverse, literate, adventurous, and musically rich in all of popular music. Today regarded as one of the greatest composers of the rock n' roll era, Simon is an American treasure, now celebrated by these five expanded and remastered classic albums.

Customer Reviews:

The Best Album in a Lifetime .......2007-07-19

I admit to being a relatively die hard Paul Simon fan. It is not a blind adoration, however - like any of us, the man has his ups and downs. His two most recent albums really for me do not live up to the meditative, empathic radience of some of his previous work.
Maybe its unfair to judge any of his work against the standard of this album, The Rhythm of the Saints. Maybe its unfair to set ANY album, by anyone, against it in comparison.
I've had this album since it first came out in 1990. I bought it on vinyl then and just bought it again on CD. As familiar as it is to me, after 17 years of listening to it, it does not stale. His words build up a structure for whatever meaning you need to impart to them - and the structure resolves them into a whole. Every time I listen I learn something new. He offers an ageless sympathy to his listeners, speaking with a voice of aeons of struggling souls is songs such as "Further to Fly" and "Spirit Voices" - but unlike most music and poetry of the day, reflecting on the pain leaves you with a wellspring of hope.
When Paul Simon goes to a new place, South Africa for Graceland, or South America for The Rhythm of the Saints, he becomes like an electrical conductor. He is able to drop all the specific angst of his own life (unlike in his most recent album, in which we are forced to sympathise with his doing 500 sit ups a day, and dying his hair the colour of mud)and he channels the deepest, most timeless, most inherent and meaningful reaches of the human experience.
I don't mean to critisize his new work - the poor man has a right to settle down, be a father, a husband, a man. But when he steps out of himself, as he has in this album, he steps into the most resounding depths of the ocean of humanity - (I know it sounds like I'm going overboard - but I promise, I give the man nothing he doesn't deserve. I do not pretend that he is very good to watch in concert, that thing he does with his arm drives me crazy, and I suspect it is only with the greatest of technical assistance that he can keep his pitch - he is often inclined to stray quite off-tume, and his meandering vocalisations in concert make me tired.)
Listening to this album reminds me, at least, of being a part of a greater community - a moment in time, a beating heart in a great chorus of painful, hopeful, joyous rhythms - soaring with the rhythms of the saints.

Marianne Thompson

the rhythm still moves me fifteen years later............2007-06-08

Who knew that Paul Simon (of Simon & Garfunkel fame) had so much raw, untapped music inside? Yes, Simon brought us great music in the 1960s as the Simon in the Garfunkel duo ("The Boxer," "Sounds of Silence," "Mrs. Robinson," to name just a few of their hits), but it rare that we heard him so free. Maybe we have the surroundings of the Brazilian rainforest to thank for liberating him. RHYTHM OF THE SAINTS is probably one of the strongest albums I have heard by Paul Simon, and he has a great clean sound, along with the collaboration of tradional Brazilian musicians, who add in ago-go and numerous percussive instruments from their repertoire, into the mix. Think of it as soul/jazz meets Indigenous funk. Hard to imagine? It was hard for me, too. If you want a good example of this sound, listen to "The Obvious Child," "She Moves On" (featuring Brazilian vocalist Milton Nascimento) and "Spirit Voices." Once this rhythm gets in your blood, it's hard to shake it out of your system.

A subversive album.......2007-05-22

This is a highpoint for Paul Simon. The music and arrangements are beautiful and lasting.

What about the lyrics, though? Is it just me, or is he making a mockery of himself and his insular life, like Phil Collins' "Another Day in Paradise?" Simon contemplates the meaning of life as a rich, white man with all his rich, white friends. He also brings in the exotic Brazilian and African influences to see how they play against that.

Had a lot of fun, had a lot of money / had a little son, thought we'd call im Sonny. He is laying a thick layer of mockery on his own peers, calling them idiots who treat the miracle of life as just another product. Spend those Eurodollars from Washington to Tokyo? More of the same.

Simon tells secrets about the crew he hangs with, their contentment and wealth. Also, the imagined (but perhaps fake) connections to the exotic tribal people who inhabit the places where they vacation and sail their yachts.

Is he speaking in jest? No. He really wants to explore an enlightenment that comes from a life of leisure, travel and self-reassurance. Who knows what he finds in the end... is this a call to arms for rich, idle intellectuals like himself? A scolding?

The Rhythm of the Saints.......2007-05-13

The product is what I expected. It arrived on time and in the condition advertised.

a good album.......2007-01-12

Paul Simon is a artist in the true sense of the word. This album, while not quite up to the standard of "Graceland" is still a rewarding and enjoyable listening experience.

Average customer rating: Josh is even better in live! Very Good! Let me explain... Re-Live the Concert Experience! DVD is so worth the price

Josh Groban Live at The Greek (CD/DVD) Josh Groban Manufacturer: Reprise / Wea ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Rock | Styles | Music Movie Soundtracks | Soundtracks | Styles | Music General | Soundtracks | Styles | Music Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music General | Adult Contemporary | Pop | Styles | Music Vocal Pop | Live Albums | Pop | Styles | Music General | Vocal Pop | Pop | Styles | Music General | Broadway & Vocalists | Styles | Music Box Sets at 30% Off | Blowout Music | Stores | Music Pop | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music Rock | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music Broadway & Vocalists | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music Soundtracks | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music Classical | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music All Blowout Music | Blowout Music | Stores | Music More Titles at Least 25% Off | Blowout Music | Stores | Music Similar Items: Josh Groban in Concert (with Bonus DVD) Closer Josh Groban Awake With You ASIN: B00063LTH4 Release Date: 2004-11-30

Tracks:

1. Oceano
2. Mi Mancherai (il postino)
3. Mi Morena
4. Canto Alla Vita
5. Remember When It Rained
6. Remember
7. America
8. Never Let Go

Tracks:

1. Oceano
2. Per Te
3. To Where You Are
4. Mi Mancherai (il postino)
5. Mi Morena
6. Alejate
7. Canto Alla Vita
8. Nocturne/Bohemian Rhapsody (performed by Lucia Micarelli)
9. Alla Luce Del Sole (special guest artist: Bela Fleck)
10. My December
11. Caruso
12. Remember When It Rained
13. Vincent (Starry, Starry Night)
14. Remember
15. You Raise Me Up
16. America
17. Never Let Go

Amazon.com

If Josh Groban's unabashedly melodramatic musical fusion inspires grousing on both sides of the classical/pop pundit divide, the screams of the (mostly) young female fans that punctuate these 2004 performances at L.A.'s historic Greek theater better underscore the real point. This set's CD and more expansive DVD complement each other well; if anything, supplemented by a live string ensemble and crack backing band, they're a warmer, more focused showcase for the singer's talents than the studio albums that made his meteoric fame. In peak form, Groban variously delivers forceful renditions of his pop-operatic powerhouses "Canto Alla Vita" and "Anna Luce Del Sole" (the former featuring a drum solo [!] from Groban, the latter a fine guest turn by Bela Fleck on banjo), takes a surprising solo piano break on Paul Simon's "America," waxes Central Asian on Troy's "Remember" and brings the crowd to its feet with the heart-on-his-sleeve dramatics of Closer's "Never Let Go." They're all informed by the singer's insouciant, youthful enthusiasm, arguing that Groban is gifted with more than just a magnificent voice; he's a complete natural as a performer as well. The DVD also includes a tour diary narrated with typical charm by the singer, as well as bonus live performance of "Believe" from the Polar Express soundtrack. --Jerry McCulley

Album Description

Josh Groban's 2002 PBS "Great Performances" special was a #1 selling DVD and the best-selling long-form music video of 2003. His second "Great Performances" special was taped at L.A.'s Greek Theater in the summer of 2004. For fans of the young sophisticated pop phenomenon who has sold more than 8 million albums, this CD+DVD package is just the latest great performance in the career of Josh Groban. DVD Extras: On the road with Josh for Summer 2004 Tour and a special performance of "Believe" from The Polar Express (it's PBS footage mixed w/ film footage).

Customer Reviews:

Josh is even better in live!.......2007-04-14

I recently saw Josh on his new tour with Awake, and it was so awesome that inspired me to buy this DVD to replicate the experience a little bit. I loved it! Especially loved the few extra songs I've never heard before (Mi Morena, America). Some people were complaining about the nasal sound and quality, but this is a live show so of course it sounds a little different. Bottom line is I think Josh is a great preformer and his very funny also :)

Very Good!.......2007-02-09

This CD/DVD was very good. I watched the DVD and was impresed with the way He handles the "spot light." He seems to be a very humble person and I think that is what makes his music so enjoyable to listen to. Not forgetting his awesome voice!

Let me explain..........2007-01-14

There are several reviews that talk about how annoying it is for the fans to wave light sticks and/or American flags in this DVD. Perhaps if I explain why, it will seem less annoying.

The waving of the light sticks was started at the very beginning of his first tour, mainly to show him how much the fans appreciated the concerts. The first idea was to wave them during the last verse of "You Raise Me Up," when the choir came out. Later, fans added another show of support by waving blue light sticks during "Vincent (Starry Starry Night."

OK, if you still find that annoying, that's your right. However, the flag waving at the end of "To Where You Are" was special. This concert was filmed on September 11, and the flags were waved at the end of "To Where You Are" for those who were lost, and the families of those who were lost, on 9/11/2001.

It's your right if you still find these things annoying. I just thought I'd try to help you to understand.

Since this is a forum for giving our opinions of the DVD, I have to say that I love it. He has a beautiful voice and I love listening to him under any circumstance. The DVD is wonderful, IMHO.

Re-Live the Concert Experience!.......2007-01-09

Was fortunate enough to attend Josh's "Closer" concert tour date at Jones Beach--amazing voice. Getting this album brought back all of the memories of that amazing evening outdoors under a "Starry, Starry Night." I used to not bother purchasing live albums because they had poor audio quality, but not anymore. Love this album! (Actually, I love all of his stuff.)

DVD is so worth the price.......2007-01-08

I disagree with some of the reviewers complaining about a nasal sounding CD. Yes, there are few parts where it may sound a little nasal but people have to remember that this a LIVE concert and if they wanted perfect sound they should buy the studio album instead. He still sounded brilliant and great. The DVD is fantastic for all those who don't have the luck or means to attend a Groban concert. It captures the energy and pure joy of a concert. Sometimes its even better than being at the concert because you can see Groban close up. I hope that there will be a concert DVD released for the AWAKE concerts.

Average customer rating: correction to the editorial review Slippery slopes A MUST HAVE!!! Paul Simon in a different direction Not crazy about it but worth it for the already converted

Still Crazy After All These Years Paul Simon Manufacturer: Rhino / Wea ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music General | Pop | Styles | Music Singer-Songwriters | Pop | Styles | Music Soft Rock | Pop | Styles | Music Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music General | Adult Contemporary | Pop | Styles | Music Folk Rock | Rock | Styles | Music General | Rock | Styles | Music Album-Oriented Rock (AOR) | Classic Rock | Styles | Music Rhino Records | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music Similar Items: There Goes Rhymin' Simon Paul Simon Graceland The Rhythm of the Saints One-Trick Pony ASIN: B0002847VS Release Date: 2004-07-13

Tracks:

1. Still Crazy After All These Years
2. My Little Town
3. I Do It For Your Love
4. 50 Ways To Leave Your Lover
5. Night Game
6. Gone At Last
7. Some Folks' Lives Roll Easy
8. Have A Good Time
9. You're Kind
10. Silent Eyes
11. Slip Slidin' Away (Demo)
12. Gone At Last (Orginal Demo)

Amazon.com essential recording

Paul Simon's third solo album unifies the varied threads running through its predecessors--confessional ballads, wily story songs, agnostic spirituals and snapshots of modern life, circa 1975, are extensions of the models on his self-titled debut and--There Goes Rhymin' Simon. Here, Simon and producer Phil Ramone establish a more cohesive, explicitly urban setting that burnishes the artist's acoustic folk accents to spotlight his sophistication as an inventive composer and, as always, deft wordsmith. Included is his last great collaboration with Art Garfunkel, the bittersweet "My Little Town," a pop gospel romp with Phoebe Snow on "Gone at Last," and the sly adulterer's solution of "Fifty Ways to Leave Your Lover" (arguably the antithesis of Willie Dixon's classic "29 Ways"), along with the tender "I Do It for Your Love" and the woozy, dissolute "Have a Good Time." Best of all, of course, is the brilliant title song, shifting from anecdotal verse to soaring bridge and colored by keening strings and Phil Woods's knowing tenor-sax solo. Simon was crazy, like a fox. --Sam Sutherland

Customer Reviews:

correction to the editorial review.......2007-06-22

Track 1 (the title track) of this album has perhaps one of the greatest jazz/fusion tenor sax solos ever recorded by the late virtuoso Michael Brecker (RIP). As a s sax player, I cant sit here idily and read this aggregious error. Phil Woods is a great contemporary saxophonist, but he did not record this solo.

Slippery slopes.......2007-05-31

One of the neat things about living today is you can turn back to yesterday and plan tomorrow by accessing anything you want now in music in seconds....if you have money...so I thought of Slip Sliding Away (actually just a line with Delores in it-listen-) and down loaded the album to hear tonight as quick as you can hit the button on your bank account.
Of course being a day away from payday and slightly over drawn this buying of song will earn me a fee and another massive reminder of "who is the real boss around here." Slip sliding away. So go to Finland, leave your wife to go it alone and expect to be immortalized on return. I may order two more tonight. I kind of want that Aja download..and a Taj Mahal. And what about Graceland? Slip and slide right away...

This was a favorite album, listening I'm back in 1975-76 and I know exactly what I felt. Music is amazing this way. Feeling. Transported to a long streak of bad luck tune...pray it's gone at last. Man. I had long streak..pray it's gone at last....love the trip listening to memories to try to lift out of pain today.
This remix has a terrific couple songs at the end too (demo version whatever that is). Rhythm is great. Not the Ramones but I saw them too, and Simon in New York I think it was 1977 or maybe 80?, it was in the height of this, saw a Saturday Night Live...live.

In that time this album was so much fun to listen to, wistful, urban, interior, about love failed, changing. Of course I was young, 18. My daughters age now. What did I know then? Wow, we seem so very different. She's so very smart, choosing, charting. At that time I wasn't going to get married or involved, ever. Oh we are kind of alike in those words.

Hop on the bus Gus, drop off the key, slip out the back Jack, you don't need to discuss much, get yourself free. Running days....days I got around to sing and live. And here I am listening to these tunes some for the first time in 15 years. I'd forgotten My Little Town, hanging shirts in the dirty breeze...such a great tune about growing up in nowhere in the times I became me. My little town, just hanging your life on the line ...black rainbows. God what writing. The lack of imagination in a small town has never changed. I sang this to move away and beyond the dead and dying dreams I had...

I Do It For Your Love was a tune I love to hear others cover, but listening today I remember it was sweet to listen to Simon. Too much... we were married on a rainy day. The sky was yellow, grass was gray. I do it for your love....you can love that writing too. I recall all those early married years living in a migrant town in a shanty where I saw the dirt through the floorboards. And lost all my jewelry in a plastic bag to a break in.Worth only the memories. By the time I was married nine years and owned a mattress and a table, and three kids. Made the love fade, life so hard getting all the degrees after working all day and trying to do it all....on a shoe string I suppose. The orange bled the blue. Sting of reason, splash of tears. I do it for your love. Beautiful tune. Like listening to Bill Evans lay it out.

Do you like harmonica lilting through your head, listen to Night Game....I recall on this album Sanborn, Brecker, Bob James, Ralph Mc Donald, Grady Tate, Steve Gadd, Phoebe Snow...but you know poor memory... I mostly enjoy listening which I'm going to do now. Was this really the reason, "I like to sleep with the window open and you keep the window closed", so goodbye? Yeah, it's as good as any reason. Sad. I recall this is an 'after a marriage ends release', is that right...it fades in my memory. Goodbye was it?

This beautiful bed of stones holding Jerusalem...I'd forgotten it's here too. I was playing this one night years ago, over the December break...alone in my tiny apartment, no food...a friend stopped over just as I was singing this out (giving them a scary show I suppose) they'd brought me a food care package. That I was singing this ballad at the time struck me as something very like proving you have connections to universe...call of this song in the dark ...we tumble and fall through no fault of our own....never catching our stars......but times seem to leave me wondering listening tonight....his is a tune I can almost not take, bone felt, still. Very beautiful.

So now I'm slip sliding away. Again. Good thing we can sing. It's about all you've got in the dark. A day tomorrow, I lie in bed and think of things that might have been....have A Good Time those that can. Will.

Good memories. In a year with great music this got a lot of awarding. And I still enjoy it 'cause awards are a sure killer.

A MUST HAVE!!!.......2007-04-02

For serious Paul Simon fans only!!! This cd showcases the first glimpse of his musical genius!!! Still a relevant cd 30 yrs after it was first released!!!

Paul Simon in a different direction.......2006-10-29

The best way to describe this album would be "melodically pleasing and mellow". In fact, the mellow atmosphere combined with the excellent songwriting will show you that Paul Simon really is a great singer and songwriter. He can do it all, folks. Buy this collection for a completely consistent album.

Not crazy about it but worth it for the already converted.......2006-07-14

This album had a few too many low-key cuts that wafted by without a lot of impact. I love Simon's stuff (and not just the "hits", for instance "St. Judy's Comet" is one of my favorite songs of his..) but sometimes he veers a bit into pretension. He's at his best when he's doing stuff that COULD be hits..if they weren't a little "too smart" for the room.

HIGHLIGHTS:
The title cut picks up a nice smoky jazz ambience thanks to jazzers like Michael Brecker adding a tasty sax solo and the string and woodwind arrangement by Bob James heightening the drama of the tune while not plunging it into melodrama. Perhaps the last great pairing with Art Garfunkel, "My Little Town" is another high point as Simon recalls his childhood in a one horse town ("And after it rains/There's a rainbow/And all of the colors are black/It's not that the colors aren't there/It's just imagination they lack"). The duo share production chores on the song with Phil Ramone (Billy Joel's producer). Crisp military snare drumming from Steve Gadd guides cheater how-to "50 Ways to Leave your Lover" which became a #1 for Simon. Simon hooks up with Phoebe Snow on the gospel-esque barnburner "Gone at Last" with gospel's Jessy Dixon Singers along for the ride. The lazy musical backing for "Have a Good Time" perfectly enhances the 'take it as it comes' hedonism. ("I've been loving and loving and loving/I'm exhausted from loving so well/I should go to bed/But a voice in my head/Says 'Ah, what the h**l')

LOWS:
"Night Game" is a finely etched word painting but it just never grabs me musically. I can't decide if Simon is genuinely desiring Jerusalem in "Silent Eyes" or if it's an ironic lament. It's just another one that 'lays there' for me.

BOTTOM LINE:
If you're already a fan you'll probably like it but if you've heard NEGOTIATIONS AND LOVE SONGS (Simon's greatest hits) and you want to go on from there, I'd try THERE GOES RHYMIN' SIMON next or GRACELAND and RHYTHM OF THE SAINTS for his world music excursions.

3 1/2 stars

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