Paul Simon has had a notable career as a solo artist and as part of the duo, Simon and Garfunkel. He has won twelve Grammy Awards. So Beautiful or So What is his 2011 release. There Goes Rhymin’ Simon is a previous release from 1973, but has been remastered with bonus tracks and an unfinished demo of “American Tune.” This is the first time the album has been under the Columbia imprint since the original vinyl release.
“Kodachrome” is a classic song about high school and remembering the past. Simon is looking through the lens of his Nikon camera and capturing images on Kodachrome film. The song comes to life in brilliant colors as Simon’s mellow voice puts brush to canvas and the guitar and piano cut a swath of vibrant imagery that is like looking at a photo album. This is one of my favorite songs on the album.
“Take Me to the Mardi Gras” is a song about anticipating the delights of Mardi Gras to the subtle, yet strong guitar playing. “Take your burdens to the Mardi Gras let the music wash your soul.” The song takes you up on high with the lyrics, but keeps you floating with the music. It is poetry, with a beat. You can feel the pulse of New Orleans through the depth of Simon’s words. The acoustic bonus version is my favorite version. It has a more soulful feel than the original, and almost seems like a different song.
“American Tune” is a thought provoking song about America and a journey of the soul. Simon plays the guitar in a powerful, but understated way. The lyrics tell the tale of a young man away from home and thinking about America in all of its glory and contradictions. The Vietnam War was very much in focus when this song was written. The social problems of the time resonate through an age that is uncertain, and yet full of potential. Comparing the original version to the previously unreleased version, you see Simon at work in his creative process and that is a window into the mind of the artist.
Paul Simon is a seasoned musician both in his solo career and as part of the duo, Simon and Garfunkel. Simon creates a patchwork of acoustic and electric guitar that will sway you with the strength and subtlety behind the music and the lyrics.
There Goes Rhymin’ Simon (Remastered) is an excellent album, especially with the Work In Progress “Let Me Live In Your City” track, album and bonus tracks now included to make it a worthwhile addition to your collection.
Key Tracks- Kodachrome, Take Me to the Mardi Gras (Acoustic Demo), American Tune
Dana Wright-Muzikreviews.com Staff
June 30, 2011