Comparing Paul Simon and Art Garfunkel's Albums: The 1975 Release
When discussing the two former band mates, Paul Simon and Art Garfunkel, there is an interesting comparison to be made regarding their albums released in October 1975. Both artists released music during this period, but opinions vary on which was the superior album in terms of overall quality of music. Let’s explore the arguments for both sides and reach a conclusion.
The Albums in Question
Paul Simon's album, Bangles and Banners, and Art Garfunkel’s album, A Beautiful Noise, were both released in 1975. The challenge in comparing these albums is that there is a common track - My Little Town. This particular song is an official song by Simon and Garfunkel, making it an apples-to-apples comparison for this debate.
Paul Simon's "Bangles and Banners"
Paul Simon is well-known for his powerful songwriting. His album Bangles and Banners was dominated by original songs, almost entirely written or co-written by Simon. Among the standout tracks are 'The Angel of Tokens' and 'Guilty.' By writing and performing these songs himself, Simon provided a continuity that is often lost in collaborations or cover albums.
Art Garfunkel's "A Beautiful Noise"
On the other hand, Art Garfunkel's album A Beautiful Noise included songs that were predominantly covers or written for other artists. The prominent track, 'Breakaway,' was written by Gallagher and Lyle. While this added variety to the album, it also introduced a lack of uniformity that some listeners find less appealing.
Commercial Success
In terms of commercial success, Art Garfunkel's album had two top 40 hits, while Paul Simon's album had three. Additionally, Paul Simon's album won two Grammy Awards. These accolades speak to the critical and commercial recognition of Simon's work on that album. However, these achievements alone do not determine the overall quality of an album.
Vocal Quality and Continuity
A major point of contention in this discussion is the vocal quality and continuity of the two albums. Paul Simon's album is noted for providing a more singular voice and vision through the original material he penned. His superior vocal delivery, as seen in tracks like 'The Angel of Tokens,' is a factor in the overall quality of the album.
Conclusion
When we factor in the above points, it's reasonable to conclude that Paul Simon's Bangles and Banners represents the better album. The continuous narrative and artistic vision presented by Simon’s original songs offer a cohesive and powerful listening experience. While Art Garfunkel's A Beautiful Noise is commendable for its engaging covers and diverse selection, the overall quality and consistency of Simon's album make it a standout in this comparison.
Both albums are enjoyable and offer unique musical experiences. However, when evaluating the overall quality of music and cohesiveness of vision, Paul Simon's Bangles and Banners emerges as the superior album of the two.