May 7, 2006
Paul Simon - "Surprise" ****
Martin Bandyke
What surprises could folk-rocker Simon have left in him at this stage of his career? Well, how about collaborating with experimental rock guru Brian Eno? The founding member of the arty Roxy Music and producer of classics by U2 and Talking Heads might have little in common with Simon musically, but Eno's open-minded approach must have fired a creative spark in Simon, who delivers his best album since the 1986 masterpiece "Graceland."
Simon's plea for understanding among naysayers and doubters on the stunning "How Can You Live in the Northeast" might be carried by the unusual, Eno-esque backdrop of fuzzy, distorted guitars and clattering drums, but these touches serve the strong images in the lyrics perfectly.
Spiritual themes dominate the emotional "Wartime Prayers," "I Don't Believe" and "Once Upon a Time There Was An Ocean," while "Outrageous" and "Sure Don't Feel Like Love" are as funny as they are thought-provoking. But whether the subject matter is serious or lightweight, it's obvious that Simon was having a fantastic time in Eno's London studio. His vocals are filled with energy, and his lyrics are particularly smart and insightful. In stores Tuesday.