American Harmony

American Harmony, released in 2009, is an award-winning documentary that presents a satisfyingly profound and culturally powerful American phenomenon – the cloistered world of competitive barbershop singing. The enduring legacy of this unique art form comes to life with a vibrant portrayal of passion, perseverance, scandal, and of course, harmony.

Taking center stage in the film are Greg Clancy, Patrick Claypool, and Eric Dalbey, all individuals heavily involved in this expressive musical culture. These key figures, intertwined with an array of compelling and authentic secondary characters, present to the audience an unseen niche of American culture that is both deeply traditional and refreshingly contemporary.

At the outset, the film contrasts two quartets, namely, the "Vocal Majority" led by Greg Clancy and the youthful Midwestern chorale "Max Q". The relentless rivalry between the two quartets drives the film's narrative, offering the viewers a thrilling peek into the high stakes world of competitive singing. Patrick Claypool, part of the charismatic quartet "OC Times", and Eric Dalbey, a member of the spirited quartet "Max Q", both demonstrate their ability to balance raw talent, personal aspirations and team dynamics in their pursuit of victory.

American Harmony is filled with vibrant, acapella sounds that echo through the film like a pulsating heartbeat. The endearing charm of these four-part harmonies bounding off the screen is a testament to the skill and artistic integrity of these performers. However, this documentary reaches beyond the music, emphasizing the dedication, commitment, and personal sacrifices made by these individuals, highlighting the role of brotherhood, camarity, and the palpable tension that exists within these tight-knit communities.

The film is a microcosm of Americana, demonstrating how barbershop chorus has thrived as an art form since it was popularized in the late 19th century. It explores the history of Barbershop singing, facing the paradox that this form of music that pushes for innovation continues to thrive on its many traditions. American Harmony shows how this competition is a microcosm of the broader political and cultural tensions in America.

The narrative, punctuated by the highs and lows of its rival groups throughout the competition, also subtly displays the familial, societal, and professional pressures faced by the lead characters. It tells stories of triumph, loss, friendship, and old-fashioned American spirit that are universally relatable.

Director Aengus James does a commendable job in weaving together diverse storylines against the backdrop of passionate performances. The background score of the film, a potpourri of barbershop renditions of popular songs across the decades, shapes viewers' engagement with the narrative.

The film also serves as an accessible anthropological study of the competitive singing culture, particularly barbershop choruses. It gives us a nuanced look at the often overlooked role that music plays in reinforcing community bonds, providing an emotional outlet, and even contributing towards personal growth and self-discovery.

From an interpretive perspective, American Harmony speaks to larger themes about the power of music, the importance of cultural preservation, personal annuality and achievement, and the unifying quality of shared passion. It is a candid exploration of human dynamics and ambition within the confined parameters of a competitive environment. With a distinctive blend of humor, drama, and music, the film celebrates the joy, intensity, and emotional richness that come with being part of the barbershop community.

In essence, what American Harmony offers is not just an exploration of a subculture, but also a mirror to the audience – a reflective, engaging viewing experience that touches on universal human emotions and experiences. The story seamlessly interlaces the professional with the personal, the competitive with the collaborative, and the individual with the community – offering a nuanced, candid, and moving portrayal of the American competitive barbershop singing scene as a metaphor for life itself.

Whether or not you are already familiar with the world of barbershop quartets, American Harmony is an eye-opening, heartwarming experience that fills the screen with mesmerizing sound and genuine human drama. The film is engaging in its storytelling, rich in character, and deeply passionate about the music and community it represents.