From Russia With Love – starring Sean Connery as Agent 007 – Bond, James Bond.  The book written by Ian Flemming was apparently one of the top ten books that President John F Kennedy loved to read don’t you know!  Although John Barry had replaced Monty Norman as the soundtrack composer on this bond film, the bond theme was written by Lionel Bart. You may also recognise, and be able to sing along to, some of Lionel’s other songs from a famous film where a little boy asked for “More”- do you know what it is yet? Of course you do! It’s Oliver but he was also responsible for many more hits written for Shirley Bassey and Rod Stewart.  Lionel Bart couldn’t actually read or write music – he used to hum the songs and, for the 21 Carry On films, his co-partner at the time – Eric Rogers, used to transcribe them for him.

Matt Munro, who was affectionately nicknamed “the singing bus driver”, sang this Bond theme and his phrasing in this number is amazing.  The ease and sophistication in his vocals are like velvet.  Well the Bond Tribute Band The Name is Band have their own “fabulous crooner” in Gavin Lazarus who also has the ability to beautifully phrase lyrics old stylie when needed! When we were thinking about what Bond Themes to record for the website Gavin’s phrasing ability was a deciding factor in choosing From Russia With Love.

We hope you enjoy this one – To you….. From the Bond Tribute Band With Love …. awwwwww!