Paul Simon's music, track arrangement, and vocals are fantastic, BUT...

... the packaging is what earns this a 4-star review. Paul Simon's music in "The Rhythm of the Saints" is top-notch, as are the vocals and track assembly.

My Most Favorite CD EVER!

This CD is by far Paul Simon's best CD in every way. To me, it is my most favorite CD ever. I must admit, the first time I heard it back in 1991, I didn't like it, but I had it in my music collection and one day a few months later I took it back off my shelf because even though I didn't think I liked it, something resonated in me about it. After giving it another chance, I started to see the true genious of Paul Simon in his philosopical and spiritual nature. It comes through in this album more than any other. Both his music and his lyrics show a deep connection with the different people and places of Brasil and it is very touching to the soul. I am American Indian and I am very close in spirit to the tribes of both North, Central, and South America and this album reflects deeply upon some of our common beliefs in subtle ways which I appreciate even more. While listening to this album, I feel transported to South America with the tribes and forests and oceans and it is beautiful. This album consistently gives me renewed hope and a new sense of purpose and commitment to my causes each time I listen to it. I have been listening to this album for over 15 years now and I have never gotten tired or sick of it. Each time I listen to it, I still hear something new and I learn something new about life and myself. I highly recommend this album and I recommend listening to it several times before you give it any harsh judgment. There is so much beauty, conviction, philosophy, hope, love, and spirituality offered in both the lyrics and music that it deserves the highest praise any album can receive. It is by far my most favorite album and it is nothing less than a truly magical masterpiece. There is nothing else like it out there. This version is particually wonderful because it contains 4 previously unreleased songs. I love the alternative versions of the songs as they also contain different lyrics and sounds which add even more depth and beauty to this amazing album.

My favorite Paul Simon album... but it's not for everyone

Like the other reviewers, I love this album. As a fan of Paul Simon's music all the way back to his early S&G days, this is my favorite.