He did take chances with Graceland, and it's success repaid him tenfold looking back.
I suppose when it comes to Paul's solo records, I think his first one and Graceland are the only two that can rival his work with S&G, I know that's a funny way to look at it but I can't help myself. Art even though he's got one of the most distinctive voices in rock music never came close to doing anything solo that was as good as S&G.
No comment on your Axl appreciation...
...but as far as SD goes, The Royal Scam was their hardest album, so I've always loved it and the debut the most of their catalog even though I enjoy their whole discography.