Released 40 years ago today, this is the seventh studio album from singer-songwriter Paul Simon. Although Simon is maybe best known for his work as the duo Simon & Garfunkel, he had a big hit with this album. Along with Paul Simon's folk-pop sound, this album incorporates lots of South African music elements and performances from South African artists, as well as other styles such as rock, a capella, zydeco, and more. Groups such as Ladysmith Black Mambazo, The Boyoyo Boys, Good Rockin' Dopsie and the Twisters, The Everly Brothers and Los Lobos contribute to this musical journey, bringing their own sounds and mixing them with Paul Simon's excellent songwriting. Songs such as "You Can Call Me Al", "Diamonds On The Soles Of Her Shoes" and the title track are very recognizable to me, though I didn't really grow up listening to Paul Simon at all, as these songs are in movies and everywhere. I think I bought this album a decade or two ago when some artist I liked posted about how much they loved this album. It's a classic album and well worth a listen on its 40th anniversary of its release.

Release Year: 1986
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