Simon & Garfunkel - Songs of America / The Harmony Game

Simon & Garfunkel - Songs of America / The Harmony Game is a dual feature DVD that showcases two spectacular music documentaries from the iconic Simon & Garfunkel. The films provide a riveting look into the enduring duo's musical journey, their personal lives, and their impact on the music industry and wider American society. Both 'Songs of America' and 'The Harmony Game' are not mere concerts but thought-provoking stories that penetrate deeper than the surface level of the famous duo's music.

The first segment, 'Songs of America', takes viewers on a cultural journey through the socio-political landscape of the late 60s. This documentary originally aired on CBS in 1969 and was considered quite revolutionary for its time. The airing of this unique blend of performance footage, interviews, and historic news reels coincided with the release of their 'Bridge Over Troubled Water' album, which was nothing short of a musical masterpiece.

'Songs of America' highlights not just Simon & Garfunkel's music but also the political and social unrest that swept across the United States during that era. It attempts to analyze how these external elements influenced their music, particularly the Bridge Over Troubled Water album. It documents the creative process behind their songs and reflects on the duo's aspiration to convey resonating messages about society, politics, and the American dream. This documentary garners its unique flavor by juxtaposing the duo's memorable performances and behind-the-scenes footage with historical scenes from the civil rights movement, anti-Vietnam War protests, and other notable events from that era.

'The Harmony Game', on the other hand, is shot in a more contemporary setting with the duo looking back at their career and reflecting on the impact of their work. It explores the phenomenon that was Simon & Garfunkel with particular focus on the making of 'Bridge Over Troubled Water', an album that marked a milestone in their career. Crafted with a rich dose of nostalgia, the documentary assembles interviews with the duo, their collaborators, and music industry veterans. Viewers get see a detailed, step-by-step breakdown of how some of their most popular songs were conceived and brought to life. It further examines the themes and lyrical complexity that their songs showcased, which often resonated with the socioeconomic changes happening in America at the time.

Beyond the historical and musical significance, 'The Harmony Game' also uncovers the dynamic between Paul Simon and Art Garfunkel, their creative process, and the intense emotional bond they shared. At the crux of this engaging story is a startling revelation about why their partnership split at the peak of their fame and success, which changed the course of popular music. Despite the dissolution of their partnership, the legacy they created has unquestionably influenced generations of musicians.

Collectively, Simon & Garfunkel - Songs of America / The Harmony Game offers more than pure musical delight. It is a cultural document that captures a pivotal moment in American history through the lens of two extraordinary musical artists. The poignant narratives and the timeless music make these documentaries an essential watch for music lovers and history enthusiasts alike.

It is a touching tribute to Simon & Garfunkel, depicting not only their extraordinary talents as musicians but also their insightful perspectives as social commentators. With compelling interviews, exceptional live footage, and historical insights, this dual feature serves as a testament to the enduring legacy of one of pop music's most successful duos.