The Paul Simon Songbook by Paul Simon

A really old album, with some of the best and most loved Simon songs in their first incarnation. It must be remembered that this was released in the heat of the Folk boom, so there are a few tracks that have not weathered too well. However, the classic tracks are here presented with just Paul and his guitar, which gives a far different sound to the later rather "pop" arrangements that were released with Artie. "I am a Rock" is a bleak arrangement, infinitely more sensitive than the later arrangement, which is similar to the "unreleased" version. "Sounds of Silence" is almost a whole other song, the mood and phrasing are so different from the later versions with their lush productions. In context to the music, this version is truer to the lyric. "Patterns" is a fascinating yet dark view of a life lived without choices. "Flowers and "Kathy's Song" are young writer's lyrics, pretty but without lasting merit. Overall, an excellent album, worth a listen. ℗ Originally Recorded 1965 & Released 2004, Originally Released 1965, (P) 2004 Sony Music Entertainment Inc.