Bond For Orchestra: Carl Davis / Po

It was decided to make this CD an instrumental one since nowadays the originals are a press button away on You Tube. It was also decided that a new interpretation would also be exciting, especially played by a world class orchestra like the Philharmonia and London's hottest rhythm section, inspired by the brilliant arrangements and production of Chris Egan. Let's also add to the mix a classical violin virtuoso, Pavel Sporcl from Prague who moonlights with his own Gypsy band and England's most stunning jazz trumpeter, now a successful composer and conductor, Guy Barker. John Barry in his orchestration defined the Bond sound: rich, full and brassy. Until Dave Arnold picked up the mantle in 1997 with Tomorrow Never Dies, the exceptions to Barry were one offs, but wonderful ones. Burt Bacharach in the much derided Casino Royale mark1 produced a torch song standard with 'The Look of Love'. The total oeuvre comprises a history of music and trends from 1962 until today, a span of exactly 50 years. But Monty Norman's Dr No theme resembles no pop music before or since. John Barry's songs are full of the oddest twists and turns. The McCartney's' Live and Let Die is unique in their output. The Bond composers tended to do their most individual work inspired by Ian Fleming's creation. Long may he be reincarnated to thrill and amuse US with his glamour and wit, his strength and ingenuity.