"Parsley, Sage, Rosemary and Thyme" is the third studio album by American music duo Simon & Garfunkel, released in 1966. The album is largely characterized by the duo's harmonic voices and the exploration of various musical styles, including folk, pop, and rock.
While their previous record was primarily done in a folk rock style, “Parsley, Sage, Rosemary and Thyme” represented the duo's first attempt to branch out and experiment with their sound. The album saw both Simon and Garfunkel taking turns as lead singers, with the former also taking on guitar duties.
Unlike their first two records, which were quickly recorded, the duo spent three months in the studio for this album, focusing on fine-tuning and polishing their sound. This focus on crafting a high-quality record led to a diverse array of songs, ranging from the poignant, socially-conscious tunes like "Scarborough Fair/Canticle" and "The 59th Street Bridge Song (Feelin' Groovy)," to the innocent and childlike "The Big Bright Green Pleasure Machine".
The album was a commercial and critical success, peaking at number four on the Billboard albums chart and eventually being certified triple-platinum. It solidified Simon & Garfunkel's status as one of the most successful folk-rock duos of the 1960s.
Beyond its commercial success, the album has been hailed for its musical creativity and diverse range of songs. It's often praised for its innovative blend of folk and rock music along with its harmonic vocals and intricate arrangements.
"Parsley, Sage, Rosemary and Thyme" remains one of Simon & Garfunkel's most popular and enduring works, showcasing the duo's songwriting talent and ability to craft compelling and evocative music.
