The David Arnold James Bond Project: Shaken And Stirred

In the wake of Tomorrow Never Dies' marketing assault, another James Bond tie-in is as welcome as, well, another James Bond movie. Moreover, composer David Arnold, the man responsible for the forgettable scores to Independence Day, Stargate, and, yes, Tomorrow Never Dies, seems an unlikely candidate to squeeze even one more drop of energy from the flaccid franchise. What a surprise, then, that Shaken And Stirred proves an effective and inventive take on John Barry's (and others') classic music. Utilizing the distinctive talents of several guest vocalists, Arnold breathes new life into songs unjustly devalued by merciless kitsch merchants. ABC's Martin Fry lends his smooth croon to "Thunderball," while Iggy Pop's weary grumble is perfectly matched to "We Have All The Time In The World." Other highlights include Pulp's "All Time High" and the manic reworkings of 007 by both Propellerheads and LTJ Bukem. "Nobody does it better," sings Aimee Mann, but Arnold's savvy recasting of Bond's ballads comes close.