Paul Simon is maybe one of our most consistent legacy acts, so news of new material is always welcome. Happily, he’s announced a new album, Stranger to Stranger, and shared the first song from that album. Titled “Wristband,” it’s an eclectic ride that sees Simon playing around with sounds otherwise absent from his oeuvre, or just not pieced together the way they are here. It’s also one of Simon’s traditional story songs, funny and pithy and wry as hell.
And that makes sense, given the statement Simon released with the album’s announcement. “It’s about getting you to actually hear something in a new way. It’s about making music that sounds old and new at the same time; music with a sense of mystery,” he said. Simon is taking inspiration from all over, and worked instruments created by theorist Harry Partch, as well as musicians from around the world.
It’s also been announced that Simon will tour behind the album. Listen to “Wristband” below. Stranger to Stranger is out June 3.
Here’s the official tracklist:
1. The Werewolf 2. Wristband 3. The Clock 4. Street Angel 5. Stranger to Stranger 6. In a Parade 7. Proof of Love 8. In the Garden of Edie 9. The Riverbank 10. Cool Papa Bell 11. Insomniac’s Lullaby