Simon Says

Viva la Paul Simon...

In 2006 Time Magazine called Paul Simon one of the 100 "People who shape the world." Either as one half of a successful duo in the 60's or as a solo artist beginning in the 70's, Mr. Simon has definitely had a huge impact on other musicians. Here are 2 recent releases that owe a lot to his musicality.

The first is by Canadian-rocker Jeremy Fisher. In 2007 he released his second album "Goodbye Blue Monday."

He made his own video for his first single "Cigarette." This was viewed over 2 million times on YouTube. (Better make that over 2 million and 1!)

Here is my favorite song from the album... (as you can tell, he is a big fan of stop-motion animation)

The other Paul Simonesque release is from my favorite new band this year... VAMPIRE WEEKEND!

They are comprised of 4 guys who met at Colombia University. Two of the guys were in a previous rap group called "L'Homme Run." Their music has both a Western Classical influence and a African Popular Music feel..... (The Afro Pop part of their sound is very reminiscent of Paul Simon's "Graceland.") Self recorded and self produced, Vampire Weekend's self-titled cd came out at the beginning of the year.

Check these guys out.... this is a perfect album for the summer... LOVE THEM!!!

Here are some great videos and performances....

"A-Punk"

"Mansarf Roof"

"Oxford Comma"



Here's the audio from my favorite song.... "M79"



On a final Paul Simon note, one of my favorite Vocal Jazz groups "NEW YORK VOICES" released an album of all Paul Simon covers.

Sadly, the album is currently out of print! (You may be able to find used copies in stores or on amazon.com)

I really love this album and want you to hear it, so.... here is a link to download it from yours truly!

http://www.sendspace.com/file/d60htl


They do a wonderful reworking of "Cecilia." The whole album is WONDERFUL! I've actually seen them in concert twice and met them too. They are the nicest people. Check out their album "Sing! Sing! Sing!" as well.