Three years after the Capeman debacle, Paul Simon released his first proper studio album in ten years, 2000’s You’re the One. This album is easily overlooked when considering the span of Simon’s career but every time I revisit it, I’m reminded how strong it is.
Frequent commenter Dana hit the nail on the head in describing this album the last time I featured it. He said it is reminiscent of Hearts and Bones but without matching that album’s highest points, and that the first half of the record is extremely good with the second half a bit on the sleepy side.
Listening to it this week, I find myself in complete agreement. The sound and feel of the album is definitely in the same vein as Hearts and Bones, with a similar blend of exotic rhythms and acoustic pop. And the highlights are front-loaded, though the album’s back half is still rewarding.
Today’s SOTD — You’re the One‘s first track — is one of my favorites. The beautifully delicate opening reminds me of Ennio Morricone’s soundtrack to The Mission, one of my favorite pieces of orchestral music.
Sound becomes a song
I’m bound to tell a story
That’s where I belong
When I see you smiling
When I hear you singing
Lavender and roses
Every ending a beginning
The way you turn
And catch me with your eye
Ay ay ay
That’s where I belong
When I see you smiling
When I hear you singing
Lavender and roses
Every ending a beginning
That’s the way it is
I don’t know why
Ay ay ay
But that’s where I belong
A spiny little island man
Plays a jingling banjo
He’s walking down a dirt road
Carrying his radio
To a river where the water meets the sky
Ay ay ay
That’s where I belong
Meet Me In Montauk 
I’m not familiar with this album, but this song is delightful. I can see why the opening reminds you of the Mission soundtrack. He is just so talented; hard to believe he’s created so much and he’s still going strong.
I appreciate the shout out for my previous assessment of this album. I must admit that I haven’t really revisited this album much, but I probably should. This is a lovely song, and, as I recall, there are other lovely tracks on the rest of the record. And, while it may not have the highs of Hearts and Bones, at least there is no low like “Cars are Cars.” 🙂