A bookend is a support placed at the end of a row of books to keep them upright, bookends typically come in pairs.

















I want to begin by stating this is a somewhat joyous escapist album. The introducing track; 'Bookends Theme' is a misleading introduction to the later hectic tracks to follow. It is only 32 seconds long and features an isolated acoustic guitar. This atmospheric sound is quickly interrupted by the second track of the album 'Save the Life of My Child'.

This track is initially electric, fading into strings used with relinquish and pace. The verses are evocative, centring the story of a boy ready to jump off a ledge. It depicts two reactions; a means to save ourselves and a means to intervene. Midway through the track another one of Simon & Garfunkel's songs (not one on this album) 'The Sound of Silence' is briefly sampled which supports the haunting echo consistent with this track.





Static noise seems to background this album perpetually. The noise is very chaotic throughout each track, par the introduction.





'America' is softer and whimsical, yet maintains the escapism and wholesome nature, to follow in the track 'Overs' which again brings a reposeful chime. However 'Overs' has a more heart-wrenching story to tell, which suits the heavier use of vocals. It states the mutual denouement of a romantic relationship in a poetic and graceful way.

'Bookends' lacks a clear structure 'Voices of Old People' supports this verdict. The track is exactly what the title suggests. I feel this track is a reflection on the album title 'Bookends' and is used as a metaphor about the end of life, a message to what we all come to - our reflection and our regrets. Though the contents of the dialogue are of a depressive nature, it evokes drive and is ironically 'feel-good'; depending on which way you interpret.





'Bookends Theme - Reprise' is a progression on the introduction track. This time that same isolated acoustic guitar is delivered to us with more abundance, yet still remains short. It is quickly over and contrasted with the track 'Fakin' It', this is an experimental pop gem with relevance to the pop music scene in the late '60s. Instrumentally it is busy, supporting the uplifting vocals and is ultimately a well-rounded pop song, very appropriate and suited to the era it had been released.





'Punky's Dilemma' doesn't take itself too seriously. It's lyrically playful and euphonious. The strings are poppy and high-spirited. The verses differ so much against each other that the story or meaning behind this song is so inconsistent and completely up to listeners interpretation; it could be literal or metaphorical, but I don't think there is an urge to read too deeply into it because of the jokey nature of the track.'Mrs. Robinson' follows and it is without a doubt Simon & Garfunkel's most recognisable hit. The title of the song is established in pop culture and is associated with a love affair scenario featuring a more mature woman and a much younger man. There isn't too much to say about this track par the fact it is definitely a song worth listening to if you somehow haven't heard it already.





The album then takes on a more sincere tone with 'A Hazy Shade of Winter'. This is a very self-reflective track, it uses the metaphor of seasonal shifts to examine notions of depression whilst it instrumentally stays buoyant and ostentatious. The track is almost an interruption of the feel-good atmosphere on our ears, easing off the escapist trip. 'Bookends' is nicely rounded off with 'At the Zoo' which reinforces the previous vivacious setting. Again, like 'Punky's Dilemma', the lyrics provoke a meaning open to interpretation - but not to be taken earnestly.





Overall, 'Bookends' the album is fitting to 'bookends' the literal meaning and everything in between. It begins and ends simply, like literal 'bookends' - but the story between the beginning and the end fluctuates. Much like how we may find the books and stories between bookends. There is no specific vivid theme, each track has a story of its own and therefore I think that there is at least one track on this album that anyone would appreciate, due to the widespread emotions that are touched upon.

'Bookends' is an experience with credible replay value. It is a flexible album with tracks for any setting of listening. Ultimately this is a very solid enjoyable album and a good place to start when diving into 60's folk/pop. one of Simon & Garfunkel's songs (not one on this album) 'The Sound of Silence' is briefly sampled which supports the haunting echo consistent with this track.







