11 Underrated Simon and Garfunkel: Rare Gems

Hey there, fellow music enthusiasts! It’s TBone here, the heartbeat behind Level Tunes, where spinning records and sharing tunes is our daily jam.

As a DJ and a die-hard music fan, I’ve always had a soft spot for the iconic duo Simon and Garfunkel. Their harmonies and poetic lyrics have a way of touching souls.

But beyond their chart-toppers, there’s a treasure trove of underrated gems that often slip under the radar. So, I’ve decided to dive deep into their discography and bring you a list of 11 Simon and Garfunkel songs that deserve way more love.

Whether you’re a seasoned fan or new to their music, these tracks are guaranteed to stir something inside you. Let’s embark on this musical journey together, rediscovering the magic of Simon and Garfunkel through their lesser-known yet equally enchanting tunes!

Here are the Underrated Simon and Garfunkel songs that you can check out:

List Of Underrated Simon and Garfunkel Songs

Underrated Simon and Garfunkel songs in a list format:

1. “April Come She Will”

From the album “Sounds of Silence” released in 1966 under Columbia Records, “April Come She Will” is a hauntingly beautiful track penned by Paul Simon. This song captures the changing seasons as a metaphor for the evolving stages of a relationship. The delicate guitar work paired with Art Garfunkel’s ethereal vocals creates a timeless and introspective experience. Its simplicity is its strength, offering a stark contrast to some of the duo’s more elaborate compositions. The inclusion of session musicians like Larry Knechtel on piano adds depth to this poignant piece. I chose it for its understated elegance and emotional resonance.

2. “A Most Peculiar Man”

This song, featured on the 1966 album “Sounds of Silence,” is another testament to Paul Simon’s songwriting prowess. Released by Columbia Records, “A Most Peculiar Man” tells the story of a lonely individual’s life and tragic end. Its narrative style, combined with Simon and Garfunkel’s harmonizing, evokes a sense of empathy and introspection. The song’s melancholic tone is complemented by the subtle accompaniment of Joe South on guitar. It’s a track that showcases their ability to address somber themes with sensitivity and depth, making it a must-listen for fans of thoughtful and narrative-driven music.

3. “The Dangling Conversation”

Featured on the 1966 album “Parsley, Sage, Rosemary and Thyme” and released by Columbia Records, “The Dangling Conversation” is a masterclass in lyrical subtlety. This song delves into the complexities of a failing relationship, with its literary references adding layers of depth. The orchestral arrangement, with strings conducted by Ernie Freeman, complements the duo’s vocals, creating a tapestry of sound that’s both rich and introspective. I chose this song for its poetic brilliance and the way it seamlessly blends music with literature, demonstrating Simon and Garfunkel’s unique ability to transcend musical boundaries.

4. “Patterns”

From the album “Parsley, Sage, Rosemary and Thyme” (1966), “Patterns” is a hidden gem released under Columbia Records. In this track, Paul Simon explores the concept of life’s repetitive and often mundane patterns. The song’s intricate guitar work and the duo’s harmonious vocals make it a captivating listen. Its philosophical lyrics and the haunting melody provide a reflective and almost hypnotic experience. The addition of musicians like Hal Blaine on drums adds a rhythmic complexity that enhances the song’s theme. “Patterns” is chosen for its philosophical depth and mesmerizing musical arrangement.

5. “A Poem on the Underground Wall”

This track, from their 1966 album “Parsley, Sage, Rosemary and Thyme” released by Columbia Records, showcases Simon and Garfunkel’s storytelling prowess. “A Poem on the Underground Wall” is a vivid portrayal of a young man’s act of defiance in a subway station. The song’s dramatic buildup, combined with the powerful imagery in the lyrics, creates a striking narrative. The percussive elements, courtesy of Hal Blaine, add to the song’s intensity. It’s selected for its ability to paint a vivid picture through music and for the emotional impact of its storytelling.

6. “Hazy Shade of Winter”

Originally released on the 1966 album “Bookends” by Columbia Records, “Hazy Shade of Winter” is one of Simon and Garfunkel’s more upbeat, yet often overlooked tracks. It’s a reflection on the passage of time and the changes it brings. The song’s energetic guitar riff, combined with the duo’s harmonious vocals, creates a sense of urgency and nostalgia. Musicians like Joe Osborn on bass guitar contribute to its dynamic sound. I chose this song for its energetic melody and lyrical depth, showcasing a different side of Simon and Garfunkel’s music.

7. “Overs”

“Overs” is a lesser-known track from the 1968 album “Bookends,” released by Columbia Records. This song explores the theme of a relationship’s end with poignant honesty. The minimalistic arrangement allows the focus to remain on the lyrics and the harmonies, highlighting the duo’s vocal synergy. The emotional weight of the song is carried through its simple yet effective melody, making it a deeply moving piece. I included “Overs” for its raw emotional expression and the intimate atmosphere it creates, exemplifying the duo’s ability to convey profound emotions through music.

8. “Punky’s Dilemma”

From their 1968 album “Bookends,” “Punky’s Dilemma” presents a whimsical and imaginative side of Simon and Garfunkel, released by Columbia Records. This song features playful lyrics and a light, airy melody, offering a contrast to some of their more serious work. The use of everyday sounds in the track adds a unique and quirky element. It’s a song that showcases their versatility and willingness to experiment with different sounds and themes. “Punky’s Dilemma” is chosen for its charm and creativity, proving that Simon and Garfunkel could also have fun with their music.

9. “The Big Bright Green Pleasure Machine”

This track from the 1966 album “Parsley, Sage, Rosemary and Thyme,” released by Columbia Records, is a satirical take on consumer culture. “The Big Bright Green Pleasure Machine” uses irony and humor to critique societal trends, set to a catchy and upbeat melody. The song’s playful arrangement, complete with horns and upbeat rhythms, provides a lively listening experience. It’s a testament to Simon and Garfunkel’s ability to tackle diverse themes in their music. I selected this song for its humorous approach and social commentary, showcasing the duo’s lyrical ingenuity and musical adaptability.

10. “Flowers Never Bend with the Rainfall”

Featured on the 1966 album “Parsley, Sage, Rosemary and Thyme,” this song is a reflective piece about resilience and the human condition, released under Columbia Records. “Flowers Never Bend with the Rainfall” combines introspective lyrics with a gentle melody, creating a soothing and contemplative track. The harmonies between Simon and Garfunkel are particularly poignant here, enhancing the song’s emotional depth. Its lyrical wisdom and melodic grace make it a standout track. I chose it for its lyrical beauty and the sense of solace it provides, exemplifying the duo’s ability to create music that resonates on a deeply personal level.

11. “Save the Life of My Child”

From the 1968 album “Bookends,” “Save the Life of My Child” is a dramatic and experimental track by Simon and Garfunkel, released by Columbia Records. The song features a blend of electronic sounds and traditional folk elements, creating a stark and powerful sound. Its narrative about a desperate situation and societal reaction is both compelling and thought-provoking. The use of the Moog synthesizer, a novelty at the time, adds an avant-garde element to the track. I included this song for its bold experimentation and social commentary, highlighting Simon and Garfunkel’s willingness to push musical boundaries.

Fun Facts: Underrated Simon and Garfunkel Songs

Fun Facts about “April Come She Will”

• Inspiration from English Folk: “April Come She Will” is heavily influenced by traditional English folk music, which Paul Simon was deeply immersed in during his time in England before the duo’s breakthrough.
• Film Feature: This song was featured in the iconic movie “The Graduate,” contributing to its timeless legacy.

Fun Facts about “A Most Peculiar Man”

• Storytelling Excellence: This song showcases Paul Simon’s talent for storytelling, with its narrative revolving around a lonely man’s life and demise, inspired by real-life observations of urban isolation.
• Live Performance Rarity: Despite its depth, “A Most Peculiar Man” was rarely performed live, making it a hidden gem in their concert repertoire.

Fun Facts about “The Dangling Conversation”

• Literary References: The song is known for its literary references, including mentions of Emily Dickinson and Robert Frost, highlighting Simon’s love for poetry and literature.
• Chart Performance: Despite its critical acclaim, “The Dangling Conversation” surprisingly did not perform as well on the charts as some of their other hits.

Fun Facts about “Patterns”

• Philosophical Exploration: “Patterns” delves into existential themes, reflecting Simon’s introspective and philosophical songwriting approach during this period.
• Unique Musical Structure: The song’s structure mirrors its lyrics about life’s repetitiveness, with a cyclical melody that reflects the concept of unending patterns.

Fun Facts about “A Poem on the Underground Wall”

• Vivid Imagery: This song is notable for its vivid lyrical imagery, painting a detailed picture of a graffiti artist’s act in a subway station.
• Emotional Intensity: The track’s buildup and release of tension make it one of Simon and Garfunkel’s more emotionally intense compositions.

Fun Facts about “Hazy Shade of Winter”

• Later Cover Success: The song gained renewed popularity in the 1980s when it was covered by The Bangles for the soundtrack of “Less Than Zero,” giving it a more rock-oriented rendition.
• Seasonal Symbolism: The song uses winter as a metaphor for aging and the passage of time, a theme that resonates with listeners of all ages.

Fun Facts about “Overs”

• Intimate Recording: “Overs” is known for its intimate and minimalistic production, focusing on the vocals and the emotional weight of the lyrics.
• Reflective Theme: The song’s contemplative mood reflects the personal and artistic growth of Simon and Garfunkel at the time of its recording.

Fun Facts about “Punky’s Dilemma”

• Whimsical Lyrics: The song’s playful and imaginative lyrics demonstrate a lighter, more whimsical side of Simon and Garfunkel’s songwriting.
• Sound Experimentation: “Punky’s Dilemma” features the use of everyday sounds, showcasing the duo’s willingness to experiment with non-traditional musical elements.

Fun Facts about “The Big Bright Green Pleasure Machine”

• Satirical Edge: This song stands out for its satirical take on consumer culture, a departure from the duo’s more serious and introspective themes.
• Catchy and Upbeat Tune: The upbeat melody contrasts with the critical lyrics, creating an engaging and thought-provoking listening experience.

Fun Facts about “Flowers Never Bend with the Rainfall”

• Lyrical Depth: The song is praised for its poetic lyrics, which explore themes of resilience and the human condition.
• Soothing Melody: Its gentle melody makes it a soothing and comforting track, often used to calm and inspire listeners.

Fun Facts about “Save the Life of My Child”

• Avant-Garde Sound: The song is notable for its use of the Moog synthesizer, which was revolutionary at the time and added a modern, avant-garde element to the track.
• Dramatic Narrative: Its narrative structure and social commentary reflect the duo’s ability to address complex and challenging themes in their music.

And there you have it, a journey through the lesser-known but equally captivating world of Simon and Garfunkel’s music. These hidden gems, each with its own unique charm and depth, remind us why this duo remains an enduring force in the world of folk and beyond. Keep listening and exploring!

Thanks for reading.

TBone