Full disclosure: I decided long ago that if I was ever stranded on a deserted island, with just one CD, it would be “Graceland.”
That said, Paul Simon has a new album coming out, “Stranger To Stranger,” and “Wristband,” the first single, confirms that he’s still go it.
This is classic Simon: The lyrics are sardonic, clever, observant, and the music is THE most creative, impeccable tones and sounds, and rhythms and arrangements.
We’re lured in by his easy, open voice, and then he slyly take us ‘round back for the big reveal, in this case, income inequality and lack of opportunity.
Serious stuff, but unlike some message songs, Barry McGuire’s “Eve of Destruction” comes to mind, which can be strident and pounding, “Wristband” is a catchy pop song that feels and sounds like a party. It makes you want to dance, to tap your feet and your fingers. It’s got the elegance and depth of “You Can Call Me Al” from decades ago.
Mr. “Rhymin’ Simon” lives up to his reputation:
The riots
Started slowly
With the homeless
And the lowly
Then they spread
Into the heartland
Towns that never
get a wristband
Kids that can’t afford
The cool brand
Whose anger
Is a shorthand
For you’ll never get
A wristband
His delivery is deceptive, giving one the impression that Paul Simon is just a “regular guy” but I think it’s more accurate to say that he’s one of a handful per generation, and there’s nothing regular about that at all.
Speaking as a fan of Paul Simon’s mind and music, “Wristband” is A. Must. Listen. To.
Update
• In two days (4/29) he’ll be performing at the New Orleans Jazz Fest
• He launches his new tour next week.