Diamonds on the soles of his feet. (Graceland - Paul Simon)

Member Name: Fatlad

Product:	Graceland - Paul Simon
Date:	29/06/00 (123 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Ladysmith Black Mambarzo

Disadvantages: Tails off towards the end of the Album

A ground breaking album in terms of musical content, and breaking down barrriers and the musics not too bad either.

This album casued a stir at the time of release because of the fact that Paul Simon used South African musicians and singers on this album. They said he was taking advantage of them. Oh how he had the last laugh.

The album is unique, it captures a spirit and a vibe as well as being a supremely good record. Prehaps part of the reson this still sounds so fresh and groundbreaking after nearly 15 years is the use of Ladysmith Black Mambarzo. They bring a tribal feel to the whole thing, something that people have tried to repeat and failed.

The highlight of the album is the wonderful "Diamonds of the soles of her shoes" such a delicate, yet pasionate song. It starts off with Ladysmith doing what they do best, singing without accompionment, and then the instruments come in. Paul Simon's voice is on top form, frail and conveying an emotion that a trained, more powerful voice could never.

The title track is the least tribal/ South African of all the songs, and have a country music vibe. It seems to be about people making a pilgrimage to graceland, but i can't be sure of that.

This is a record to treasure, and liten to over, and over again.

Summary: