Search - Burt Bacharach :: Instrumental Side

The late-1990s rediscovery and reevaluation of Burt Bacharach as a pop-culture icon has resulted in a dramatic increase in Burt-themed albums--surely more than our humble planet can bear. Sure, he was on top form again when teaming up with Elvis Costello on Painted from Memory, and appearing in both Austin Powers films did wonders for his popularity (and the crucial "recognition among under-25s" factor). But an entire album of instrumental Bacharach? Burt himself would probably agree that he did his best work with a lyricist (Hal David, Elvis Costello) and his songs have become standards in any number of singers' personal repertoires (Tom Jones and Dionne Warwick). Without the lyrics they sound, well, like Muzak. That's not to say that guitar and flute-led renditions of "I'll Never Fall in Love Again" and "The Look of Love" are not without their charms. However, one can't help but hear the faint clattering of shopping carts in the background. --Robert Burrow