Great Jewish Music: Burt Bacharach

Performer: Various Artists
Producer: John Zorn (Compilation)
Distributor: E1 Distribution (USA)

Notes: Recorded between August and October 1996. Includes liner notes by John Zorn. In the late 1990s, Burt Bacharach has been "rediscovered" as one of America's great songwriters. He was featured in the AUSTIN POWERS, INTERNATIONAL MAN OF MYSTERY film and has collaborated with longtime fan Elvis Costello. Here, paying tribute to the man and his music are the cream of New York City's "downtown" jazz/experimental music scene. In doing so, these musicians reaffirm the resilience and timeless appeal of the Bacharach catalog. The cover versions range from the quietly respectful (Marc Ribot's pensive, touching "Don't Go Breaking My Heart;" Dave Douglas' "Wives and Lovers") to the surreal (Elliott Sharp's Zappa/surf-style take on "The Man Who Shot Liberty Valence;" a jazzy, chamber-music "Promises, Promises"). Also here are the twisted and the downright wacky ("The Look Of Love;" a perfect-for-Halloween "What's New Pussycat"). "Do You Know The Way To San Jose" will interest jazz fans of the hip-hop/groove persuasion, and "I Say A Little Prayer" will delight post-bop jazz fans. A varied, unusual and compelling listen.

Entertainment Weekly (5/23/97, p.65) - "...this two-disc set pays tribute to the pop tunesmith as a serious composer....Challenging and full of surprises." - Rating: A-

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