https://youtu.be/ky57Jo3-BaU 


Perhaps this version? It's not exactly a striped down version but it seems calmer in a way and the "la la lA's" as you put it are a bit different. It's live though not an album so it might not be what you're looking for. I'll keep searching and update if I find smth else.

 Perhaps check the "Simon and Garfunkel's greatest hits" by Douglas sajdyk for some live versions

So I have heard what I think to be an earlier stripped down version of the boxer with slightly different harmonies and a much louder snare snap in between the “Lai la lai’s” and I can’t seem to find it now. Everything I hear is the version from “Bridge over Troubled Water” but I swear it was on a best of album. Not a live album. I feel like I’m losing my mind. Any assistance would be greatly appreciated.

Looking for a specific version of “The Boxer”