Paul Simon
Paul Simon · 1972
34 min · 11 tracks · folk rock
An eclectic blend of folk rock and world rhythms, weaving personal narratives through vivid storytelling and melodic complexity.
Top tracks — play these first
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Mother and Child Reunion Start here — This track stands out as Simon's first foray into reggae-influenced music, reflecting his ability to blend diverse sounds while addressing themes of loss and connection.
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Me and Julio Down by the Schoolyard — With its infectious rhythm and narrative style, this song captures the playful yet poignant essence of youth while highlighting Simon's storytelling prowess.
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Peace Like a River — This track showcases Simon's lyrical depth and melodic elegance, using rich imagery to convey a sense of longing and introspection.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
The album blends folk rock with world rhythms, showcasing strong songwriting and production choices.
What we noticed
- The album opens with a prominent reggae-influenced track, immediately establishing a diverse sound palette.
- Composition 25% of the score
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7/10
- Craft 20% of the score
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8/10
- Durability 25% of the score
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6/10
- Distinctiveness 18% of the score
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7/10
- Sequencing 12% of the score
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6/10
the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics
production, performance, arrangement
whether it rewards returning to it
whether it sounds like itself
running order, pacing, length
Significant within its genre. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.
Is this for you?
Good fit if you like
- steady mid-tempo storytelling flow
- reflective moments for contemplation
- vibrant rhythms for casual listening
- engaging narratives with personal touch
Maybe skip if you
- seeking high-energy party tracks
- prefer instant gratification hits
Where this album fits
- In the catalog
- Breakthrough — First solo project post-Simon & Garfunkel, establishing Simon's solo reputation.
- Themes
- global rhythms· loss and connection
- Career context
- Released on January 14, 1972, this self-titled album marked Paul Simon's first solo project following the breakup of Simon & Garfunkel. At this point in his career, Simon was transitioning from the duo’s iconic sound to exploring more diverse musical influences and themes, showcasing his artistic independence.
- Stylistic neighbors
- James Taylor· Cat Stevens· Nick Drake
Moments worth listening for
Where the writing does something specific.
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Peace Like a River
The verse shifts into a reflective tone, contemplating inner peace amidst external chaos.
This contrast between personal serenity and worldly turmoil highlights Simon's skill in merging introspective lyrics with broader societal themes.
Tracklist
- 1 Mother and Child Reunion Start here 3:10
- 2 Duncan 4:43
- 3 Everything Put Together Falls Apart 2:02
- 4 Run That Body Down 3:54
- 5 Armistice Day 3:58
- 6 Me and Julio Down by the Schoolyard 2:44
- 7 Peace Like a River 3:23
- 8 Papa Hobo 2:35
- 9 Hobo’s Blues 1:20
- 10 Paranoia Blues 2:58
- 11 Congratulations 3:43
If this landed
Records by other artists that run on the same instinct.
Tea for the Tillerman
Cat Stevens
Shares personal storytelling and acoustic warmth, blending folk elements with introspective lyrics.
Blue
Joni Mitchell
Explores themes of loss and connection through intimate songwriting and a rich melodic palette.
Songs of Leonard Cohen
Leonard Cohen
Combines poetic lyricism with a world-weary perspective, echoing Simon's reflective tone and global influences.
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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