Paul Simon

Songs From Capeman

By all that is holy, this is ATROCIOUS

Review Score:

(2/10)
This music is obviously written by Paul Simon -- the African feel reminiscent of Graceland, etc. is apparent. However, this is FAR below the quality of even his worst commercial attempts.

I applaud Mr. Simon for trying something new, musically. Writing a stage musical is no mean feat. Writing a good stage musical is even harder. However, the corner of a good musical is good music, and this does not qualify.

How to describe it? An attempt to infuse African rhythm with American "doo-wap" with Carribean beats mixed with Mexican mariachi is the closest I can figure. A multi-cultural train-wreck is more accurate.

The lyrics are heavy-handed and fail to convey much of anything, except Mr. Simon's obvious effort to write something supremely relevant. Heavy on metaphor, the words flow like gravel across, through, under, over, and in every possible direction in relation to the music.

One can hardly believe that such a talented man could write something so lacking in talent. In the end, you want him to give you back the minutes you wasted listening to this CD.

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