Burt Bacharach
London Camden Roundhouse
22nd October, 2008

The BBC Electric Proms opened with one of the biggest hitters of all, accompanied by the BBC Concert Orchestra and capable special guests: Jamie Cullum and Adele. Many of Burt’s hits were performed faultlessly in a medley style, and the standout was a superb soundtrack section: Arthur, What’s New Pussycat, The Look Of Love, Raindrops, and a sublime, tear-jerking Alfie, sung by Burt. He’s super-cool, his piano playing magical – a very special artist. It’s difficult to explain why a small percentage of the over-packed house talked through most of it [that’s London for you – Live Ed.] And the courting lesbians in front of me wouldn’t shut up all night. But after a roof-raising ovation, Burt knocked us dead by getting us all to sing Raindrops Keep Falling On My Head. I’m still crying.