James Bond's third big screen outing is one of the most famous and best remembered of the series. The score and theme tune are similarly well remembered and famous.
John Barry once again provides a magnificent orchestral backdrop against which Bond can do his stuff. With themes that drive the action along and also provide thoughtful, tender and romantic moods as required, it is a soundtrack that stands up well in its own right, and can be listened to with perfect enjoyment in isolation from the film.
The bit that everyone will remember is Shirley Bassey's rousing theme tune. With lyrics by Anthony Newley and Leslie Bricusse, it's a powerful performance, so good that Bassey was called back not once but twice to record the themes for `Diamonds are Forever' and `Moonraker'. It's the highlight of the album, but there is much more here that is well worth listening to.
This CD release contains 4 previously tracks that in general really add to the album. The sound is clear and sharp, the remastering is a treat. There is a short booklet with some notes about the film and music, and a few stills from the film.
A great release of a great album.