Paul Simon/Osaka, Japan 1974

Since its release in 2007, “All The Favorite Melodies”, which was the definitive album of Paul Simon’s first visit to Japan, has been decided to be reissued. In the first place, Simon’s first performance in Japan was not blessed with so many items, and this title is what made a difference in that situation. After all, the sound quality of the audience recording used here was truly wonderful. It is no exaggeration to say that it is a miraculous recording that combines both freshness and clearness in this era, and it has not faded at all even after more than five years have passed since its release. Since S&G did not come to Japan until 1970, this performance had a sacred meaning for the fans. At that time, Simon had already been making hits as a solo artist, but the live sound here, which fuses folk music and gospel, convinced Japanese fans who came to the venue in search of a shadow of S&G. It was sufficient. Simon himself appeared on stage that day in a relaxed and happy mood, and during his solo hit “Kodachrome,” he sang the song “Nikon Camera” instead of “Nikon Camera,” which clearly pleased the audience. Because of the sound quality, it comes across realistically. Thanks to such a peaceful atmosphere, the audience seemed to be able to relax while watching the event, even though it was the first time they were seeing S&G members in front of them. This may have led to Simon’s later preference for Japan. Although he came to Japan amid tremendous popularity, this masterpiece has been released for the first time in a while, allowing you to enjoy a wonderful concert without falling into excessive enthusiasm with the highest level recording of this era. Live at Osaka Festival Hall, Osaka, Japan 3rd April 1974 TRULY AMAZING/PERFECT SOUND(from Original Masters) Disc 1 1. Me And Julio Down By The Schoolyard 2. Was A Sunny Day 3. Cecilia 4. Homeward Bound 5. American Tune 6. El Condor Pasa 7. Duncan 8. Death In Santa Cruz 9. Kacharpari 10. Scarborough Fair 11. The Boxer Disc 2 1. Mrs. Robinson 2. Kodachrome 3. The 59th Street Bridge Song (Feelin’ Groovy) 4. I Am A Rock 5. Mother And Child Reunion 6. The Sounds Of Silence 7. What Do You Call Him 8. Jesus Is The Answer 9. Bridge Over Troubled Water 10. Loves Me Like A Rock 11. Bye Bye Love 12. America