Concert Review: Paul Simon’s "A Quiet Celebration" at Wang Theatre

Paul Simon at Wang Theatre, Boston, June 10, 2025.

There’s a lot that goes into the title “A Quiet Celebration.” Paul Simon’s current tour name hints at his recent struggles with hearing loss, which have kept him off the road since 2018. It also reflects the intimate venues he has chosen, like the Boch Center-Wang Theatre, known for its excellent acoustics. Perhaps it’s a gentle nod to his 2018 tour, which he labeled as his Farewell Tour, yet here he is again, quietly reconnecting with his audience. Whatever the reason, the concert was a heartfelt celebration of Simon’s extensive musical legacy.

The Performance: A Journey Through Time

The evening began with a full performance of Simon’s latest album, Seven Psalms, released in 2023 and nominated for a Grammy. This set was delivered as a seamless, uninterrupted piece, akin to a classical composition. Each song flowed into the next, showcasing intricate acoustic melodies and intentional pauses that created a rich tapestry of sound. Simon’s guitar skills, often overshadowed by his songwriting prowess, shone brightly throughout this segment.

The album’s narrative arc was evident, with spiritual themes woven into tracks like “The Lord” and “Your Forgiveness.” Moments of existential humor emerged in “My Professional Opinion,” while “Wait” explored love and regret. The highlight of this set was “The Sacred Harp,” where Simon harmonized beautifully with his wife, Edie Brickell, adding depth to the storytelling.

A Celebration of Classics

The second half of the concert shifted gears, diving into a treasure trove of Simon’s classics and deep cuts. The band, featuring legends like drummer Steve Gadd and bassist Bakithi Kumalo, brought a vibrant energy to the stage. Their performance was complex yet understated, emphasizing the songs rather than showcasing individual talents.

“Graceland” kicked off this segment, immediately showcasing the band’s prowess. The African-inspired grooves of “Spirit Voices” and “African Skies” were particularly captivating, while the percussive strumming of “Rewrite” added a fresh twist to a familiar favorite.

Simon’s ability to reinterpret his classics was evident in the reimagined “Homeward Bound,” which took on a mellow, train-like shuffle. The lyrical depth of songs like “Rene and Georgette Magritte with Their Dog after the War” highlighted Simon’s knack for finding profound meaning in seemingly mundane subjects. “St. Judy’s Comet” reflected on fatherhood, while “Me and Julio Down By The Schoolyard” embraced a childlike perspective, showcasing Simon’s versatility.

The Encore: A Moment of Connection

The encore began with the upbeat “50 Ways to Leave Your Lover,” setting a lively tone. However, the concert reached its emotional peak with “The Boxer.” As Simon recounted the poignant narrative, he invited the audience to join in the chorus of “Lie la lies.” The sense of community in the room was palpable, especially as Simon sang, “I am leaving, I am leaving, but the fighter still remains.”

The final encore, a stripped-down rendition of “The Sound of Silence,” resonated deeply. Simon’s solo performance of this timeless classic felt eerily relevant, leaving the audience in reflective silence.

A Legacy Celebrated

This concert served as a powerful reminder of Paul Simon’s indelible mark on the American songbook. His music is woven into the cultural fabric of society, much like apple pie and baseball. The evening was a testament to the enduring nature of Simon’s work, proving that even a quiet celebration can be profoundly impactful.

Setlist for Paul Simon at the Wang Theatre, June 10, 2025

Set I:

• The Lord
• Love Is Like A Braid
• My Professional Opinion
• Your Forgiveness
• Trail of Volcanoes
• The Sacred Harp
• Wait

Set II:

• Graceland
• Slip Slidin’ Away
• Train in the Distance
• Homeward Bound (intro teased “I Am A Rock” and “The Sound of Silence”)
• The Late Great Johnny Ace
• St. Judy’s Comet
• Under African Skies
• Rene and Georgette Magritte With Their Dog After the War
• Rewrite
• Spirit Voices
• The Cool, Cool River
• Me and Julio Down by the Schoolyard

Encore:

• 50 Ways to Leave Your Lover
• The Boxer

Encore II:

• The Sound of Silence

This concert was not just a performance; it was a celebration of a remarkable career, a testament to the power of music, and a reminder of the connections it fosters among people.