200 RECOMMENDED ALBUMS. This update: #58. Continues later this week.

THE CAFFE` LATTE`

200

MOST RECOMMENDED ALBUMS

Some are the best selling, while others may be obscure, but the albums listed here are all worthy of a listen. No compilation/ best of sets. Only exceptional live albums included. This is a personal listing of the albums I enjoy the most to this day.

#58

GRACELAND:  PAUL SIMON

 

 [1986] 

Paul Simon had attracted a following in a duo with Art Garfunkel. The pair split at its peak with the unleashing of 'Bridge Over Troubled Water' in 1970. Both members launched solo careers, with Simon attracting the most success. In the mid-1980s, Simon re-invented his sound and writing craft for the mega-seller 'Graceland' project. He had incorporated music from other cultures on prior tracks including "Me And Julio Down By The Schoolyard", "El Condor Pasa" and "Loves Me Like A Rock". For his new album, Simon turned to South Africa for inspiration. He incorporated mbaqanga and zydeco elements into his music. Fusing these exciting and relatively unknown rhythms with traditional rock 'n roll resulted in a memorable concept album. 'Graceland' saw Simon attract a new audience, while satisfying his traditional fan base. Today this album is acknowledged as an essential release that promoted world music. At the time, Simon attracted criticism. This was the era of apartheid, when Nelson Mandela was still unjustly incarcerated. Fortunately, the surrounding controversy did little to detract from the strength of the content. Simon's songwriting was re-invigorated and helped produce some of his best compositions. "You Can Call Me Al" was its lead single; acting as the perfect bridge between his past and this creative new phase.

Highiight tracks: The Boy In The Bubble; Diamonds On The Sole Of Her Shoes; Crazy Love, Vol. II & Graceland.