Published on May 18, 2004
As I sat down to write this review, I searched for the right way
to express what I think of the album, and after much thought I
believe I have found it.
This album is like a beautiful dream. The coherence in the
lyrics is only there when you don’t look for it (like a schooner in
a Magic Eye painting); the beauty of the music, however, is
constant. Paul Simon famously traveled to Africa to find
inspiration (and some musical collaborators) for this album, and it
is greater for this.
The stream of conscious “Boy In The Bubble” is good, but
certainly not the pinnacle of the album. It’s followed by an
excellent, vivid portrayal of lost love — the title track of the
album is exquisite, with a soft rhythm that is nevertheless driving
and intense. The lyrics, not entirely specific, are poignant and
troubled, and exemplify the skill and mastery Simon has for his
craft.
“Gumboots” is another standout track, almost comical in feel but
lyrically somber, pleading with an off-screen love. This cinematic
staging is characteristic of the album, and Simon plays it to great
effect.
“Diamonds On The Soles Of Her Shoes” features Simon backed up by
Ladysmith Black Mambazo during an extended intro, but the rest is a
slow, fluid song. “You Can Call Me Al” is probably the most famous
song of the album, and for good reason — it’s effective and
uplifting without being trite, despite the essential incoherence of
the lyrics. The latter half of the album is just as strong, with
“Under African Skies” hooking a guitar loop underneath gorgeous
dueling vocals (courtesy of Linda Ronstadt) and “The Myth of
Fingerprints” seeking an entire new mood for the album, with a
faster pulse and harder music.
Graceland is an excellent album; if it suffers, it suffers
from trying too hard — the African influences at times feel a bit
contrived, although in fairness that is rare. Some songs feel like
they are seeking a point, but never quite crest above the surface
of pleasant music into beautiful music. Overall, however, it is a
satisfying listen that only improves with time.