"Parsley, Sage, Rosemary and Thyme" by Simon & Garfunkel
The album reflects the introspective and socially conscious spirit of the era, solidifying Simon & Garfunkel's status as leading voices in the folk rock genre.
"Parsley, Sage, Rosemary and Thyme" by Simon & Garfunkel
"Parsley, Sage, Rosemary and Thyme" was released on October 10, 1966.
The album was recorded at Columbia Studios in New York City.
The album was produced by Bob Johnston.
Historical Context
The mid-1960s were a period of significant social and cultural change in the United States, marked by the civil rights movement, anti-war protests, and a burgeoning counterculture. Folk music, with its roots in social commentary and traditional melodies, became a powerful medium for expressing the sentiments of the time. Simon & Garfunkel, having gained popularity with their hit "The Sound of Silence," were at the forefront of this movement. "Parsley, Sage, Rosemary and Thyme" showcases the duo's evolution, blending traditional folk elements with contemporary themes and sophisticated production. The album reflects the introspective and socially conscious spirit of the era, solidifying Simon & Garfunkel's status as leading voices in the folk rock genre.
You can listen to this album on YouTube.
Musicians on the Album
The primary musicians on the album were:
- Paul Simon: vocals, guitar
- Art Garfunkel: vocals
Additional musicians included:
- Joe South: guitar
- Hal Blaine: drums, percussion
- Carol Kaye: bass
- Larry Knechtel: keyboards
- Joe Osborn: bass
- Charlie McCoy: guitar, harmonica
Track Listing and Descriptions
Side One:
1. "Scarborough Fair/Canticle"
- This track opens the album with a beautiful, haunting arrangement of the traditional English ballad "Scarborough Fair," interwoven with "Canticle," a counterpoint melody with anti-war lyrics written by Paul Simon. The song features lush vocal harmonies and intricate guitar work, creating a timeless, ethereal atmosphere.
2. "Patterns"
- "Patterns" explores themes of life's repetitive nature and the search for meaning. The song's rhythmic, percussive arrangement complements its introspective lyrics, with Simon's guitar and Garfunkel's harmonies adding depth to the track's contemplative mood.
3. "Cloudy"
- A gentle, breezy tune, "Cloudy" reflects on the fleeting nature of happiness and the passage of time. The song features light, melodic guitar work and soft harmonies, creating a warm, wistful atmosphere.
4. "Homeward Bound"
- One of the duo's most beloved tracks, "Homeward Bound" captures the longing for home and the weariness of life on the road. The song's catchy melody and heartfelt lyrics, combined with its straightforward folk arrangement, make it a standout on the album.
5. "The Big Bright Green Pleasure Machine"
- This satirical track critiques consumerism and the superficial pleasures of modern life. The upbeat, rock-influenced arrangement contrasts with the biting lyrics, creating a playful yet thought-provoking song.
6. "The 59th Street Bridge Song (Feelin' Groovy)"
- A lighthearted, whimsical tune, "The 59th Street Bridge Song (Feelin' Groovy)" celebrates the simple joys of life. The song's cheerful melody and carefree lyrics, along with its upbeat tempo and harmonies, make it an infectious, feel-good track.
Side Two:
1. "The Dangling Conversation"
- A poignant, introspective song, "The Dangling Conversation" explores the emotional distance between two lovers. The song's sophisticated arrangement, featuring strings and intricate vocal harmonies, underscores its lyrical depth and melancholic mood.
2. "Flowers Never Bend with the Rainfall"
- This reflective track contemplates the inevitability of change and the passage of time. The song's gentle, melodic arrangement and philosophical lyrics create a sense of introspection and acceptance.
3. "A Simple Desultory Philippic (Or How I Was Robert McNamara'd into Submission)"
- A satirical, Dylan-esque track, "A Simple Desultory Philippic" critiques various cultural and political figures of the time. The song's rapid-fire lyrics and energetic, rock-influenced arrangement make it a sharp, witty commentary on 1960s society.
4. "For Emily, Whenever I May Find Her"
- A romantic, dreamlike ballad, "For Emily, Whenever I May Find Her" features Art Garfunkel's tender vocals and a delicate acoustic arrangement. The song's lyrical imagery and emotional depth make it one of the album's most beautiful and enduring tracks.
5. "A Poem on the Underground Wall"
- This song paints a vivid picture of a solitary act of rebellion, capturing the tension and isolation of urban life. The sparse, atmospheric arrangement and stark lyrics create a powerful, evocative narrative.
6. "7 O'Clock News/Silent Night"
- The album closes with a haunting juxtaposition of "Silent Night" sung by Simon & Garfunkel against a backdrop of a news broadcast detailing troubling events of the time. This stark contrast underscores the tension between the idealistic and the harsh realities of the world, creating a thought-provoking and poignant conclusion to the album.
"Parsley, Sage, Rosemary and Thyme" stands as a testament to Simon & Garfunkel's artistic growth and their ability to blend traditional folk elements with contemporary themes and sophisticated production. The album's rich harmonies, poetic lyrics, and diverse musical styles reflect the duo's unique vision and the cultural zeitgeist of the 1960s. Its timeless appeal continues to resonate with listeners, cementing its place as a landmark in the history of popular music.
