Surprise
by Paul Simon
Metascore
78

Generally favorable reviews - based on 23 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 20 out of 23
  2. Mixed: 3 out of 23
  3. Negative: 0 out of 23
  1. The Guardian
    60
    The problem with Surprise is the songs Simon has chosen to undergo the Eno treatment.
  2. Pitchfork
    51
    His one-man band's busy textures can't fully distract from insipid songwriting.
  3. Blender
    50
    Simon wasn't born to sing over drum & bass. [Jun 2006, p.148]
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Awards & Rankings

69
#69 Most Discussed Album of 2006

User Reviews

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User Score
8.5

Universal acclaim- based on 55 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 49 out of 55
  2. Mixed: 2 out of 55
  3. Negative: 4 out of 55
  1. Esteban
    Mar 24, 2012
    8
    Better than Graceland... there... I said it. It's very easy to write off artists from the sixties who still record these days. This isBetter than Graceland... there... I said it. It's very easy to write off artists from the sixties who still record these days. This is understandable given that it's 30 odd years since the last good Rolling Stones song and the best thing a Beatle has done since '69 has been Thomas the Tank Engine. What Simon has done here though should appeal to people who don't even read Mojo magazine. It is a wonderful record. 'How Can You Live in the Northeast' could have been written by Arcade Fire, 'Father and Daughter' is just beautiful. Well worth the purchase.… Full Review »
  2. TiagoA
    Oct 20, 2009
    10
    Beautiful record!!!
  3. MarkE
    May 30, 2009
    7
    Good record. Eno adds interesting touches to the music and doesn't overwhelm Simon's folky core. Lyrics will keep you wanting more. Good record. Eno adds interesting touches to the music and doesn't overwhelm Simon's folky core. Lyrics will keep you wanting more. But no great songs here that match up with Simon's best work. Best tracks are Outrageous and Beautiful.… Full Review »
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