Far and away
Connie Francis' hippest, most rewarding LP,
Sings Bacharach and David pairs the singer with arranger
Claus Ogerman, whose interpretations of the
Burt Bacharach/
Hal David songbook augment the melodies' jazz-like intricacies to create a series of subdued, richly textured settings that perfectly complement
Francis' uncharacteristic vocal restraint.
Ogerman's nuanced string arrangements are worthy of
Bacharach himself, eloquently conveying the style and sophistication that make these familiar songs so timeless. And while she's no
Dionne or
Dusty,
Francis clearly grasps the substance of
David's lyrics, investing readings of "Make It Easy on Yourself," "I Say a Little Prayer," and "Walk on By" with genuine poignancy. An unexpected delight. [Reissued in 2005 by Verve Japan under the title What the World Needs Now: Connie Francis Sings Burt Bacharach.] ~ Jason Ankeny