Sunday Soundcheck: The Problem Is All Inside Your Head

I started listening to Paul Simon in high school. My mother bought an album of his called "Rhythm of the Saints" and proceeded to play "The Obvious Child" ad nauseum for weeks—I must admit that intense drum opening in the beginning is what got me hooked on it as well. 

It was shortly after that introduction that she alerted me to how many other songs of Simon's I adored—"You Can Call Me Al" was already a favorite and "Sounds of Silence" had been another (although it was made when he was with Art Garfunkel)—which made me dive into his catalog to see what else I was missing!

That was 20+ years ago and I am still listening to Paul Simon today.

The thing I enjoy about Simon's music is the fact that is has so many layers, thanks in large part to his use of so many different instruments. The guy will use anything from a tambourine to a flute in getting his lyrical point across, and the simplicity of his voice is a great contrast to all the soundbox he sets loose in your head.

So, this week, I am offering up two Paul Simon songs that have always got me going. If you read the title, you can probably already guess one of them :) Enjoy!

"50 Ways To Leave Your Lover" from Still Crazy After All These Years (1975)



"The Obvious Child" from The Rhythm of the Saints (1990)