paroolOct 16, 2026, 01:00

Review: Paul Simon's voice on his live album is significantly better than it was in Amsterdam in April

Paul Simon returned to the stage in 2025, performing several concerts in Amsterdam before releasing a live album recorded in Seattle. The new recording shows the octogenarian in better vocal form than during his Dutch tour, bolstered by a skilled backing band that highlights his classic repertoire.

Paul Simon surprised fans in 2025 by launching a new tour, which included three performances in Amsterdam last April. Following these concerts, the singer-songwriter released a live album recorded in Seattle during August 2025. While his vocal performance in the Netherlands was noticeably impacted by his age, the new recording presents a more polished and elegantly fragile sound. The concerts featured an intimate arrangement, including a full performance of his spiritual composition Seven Psalms. Simon was supported by a talented ensemble, featuring renowned musicians like drummer Steve Gadd and bassist Bakithi Kumalo, who added depth to classic tracks such as 50 Ways to Leave Your Lover and Under African Skies. Although some songs lacked the vocal energy of his youth, tracks like The Sound of Silence gained emotional resonance through his matured and delicate delivery. The production highlights the timeless quality of his songwriting despite the physical challenges of performing at his advanced age.

Culture Amsterdam Netherlands

Read original ↗

Based on reporting by parool. Translated and condensed by LocalHeadlines.

Review Brahms Klavierstücke: every note sounds with a longing for the next

Pianist Andras Schiff has released a two-disc recording of late piano works by Johannes Brahms, performed on an authentic 1859 Bluthner grand piano. The veteran musician is also scheduled to perform these pieces alongside Evgeny Kissin at the Concertgebouw in Amsterdam on November 15.

Go drawing at the Royal Palace, celebrate ADE at the Wereldmuseum or cheer on the runners at the Amsterdam Marathon: here is what you can do in Amsterdam this week

Amsterdam is hosting a variety of events this week, ranging from the 51st edition of the TCS Amsterdam Marathon to several concerts, theater performances, and band competitions. Art lovers can also enjoy diverse exhibitions at prominent venues such as the Rijksmuseum, the STRAAT Museum, and the Palace on the Dam.

Russian DJ dropped from ADE after hate message to Ukrainian

Russian DJ Komarov has been dropped from the Amsterdam Dance Event after a past hateful message directed at a Ukrainian colleague surfaced. While his removal has been confirmed, critics continue to call for further screening of other Russian artists who may have ties to the Kremlin or disputed territories.

Sainte Madeleine madeleines don't have a rounded belly like in France: 'Ours are flat'

Annemijn Kraak and Felix Massaut have opened Sainte Madeleine in Amsterdam, a bakery specializing exclusively in madeleines. Inspired by a trip to France, the pair produces a flatter version of the traditional pastry rather than the classic domed style.

Will Mikky Keetels become the Jutta Leerdam of running? "I think she's amazing"

Top athletes Khalid Choukoud, Noah Schutte, and Mikky Keetels are preparing to compete in the upcoming Amsterdam Marathon this Sunday. The event will feature a friendly rivalry among the men, while Keetels aims for a personal milestone and hopes to inspire others through her social media presence.