It’s a surprise, given the severe hearing loss in his left ear and subsequent thoughts about needing to retire from live performance, to see Paul Simon touring again. It’s also a pleasure. He decided to carry on after the success of Seven Psalms, his acoustic album from 2023; the name of this tour, A Quiet Celebration, flags a change of pace and a focus on optimal acoustics, precisely placed stage monitors and a set list that takes the singer-songwriter’s hearing loss into account.
The concert is in two parts. The entirety of Seven Psalms is followed by a selection of peerless songs, including Graceland, Slip Slidin’ Away, Homeward Bound, The Boxer and The Sound of Silence. A victory lap by any other name, and a well-deserved one at that.
For music fans of a certain age, last year’s Oasis gigs at Croke Park were unforgettable experiences fortified not just by the Gallagher brothers but also by the main support act, Richard Ashcroft. The Verve’s former lead singer and songwriter will be concentrating on promoting his latest album, Lovin’ You, but will also inevitably perform songs such as Bitter Sweet Symphony, Lucky Man and The Drugs Don’t Work. Special guests are the Welsh indie band The Royston Club.
