Audio CD October 10th 2005
Label EMI
Discs 1
Bar Code 0946 3 4071222
Catalogue No. 340 6332
Special comments Tesco Exclusive

With this CD comes 18 classic tracks, a comprehensive collection of Matt’s work from the early 60’s to the mid 70’s, mixing the smooth with the swinging. The old gems are here, what would a Monro album be without “Born Free”, the Oscar winning John Barry/Don Black song, “Portrait of My Love” and the James Bond theme song from the film of the same name “From Russia With Love”? These are the tracks that propelled him to stardom; these are the hits that made us aware of the unique talent that Matt had to offer. His totally effortless style, impeccable pitch and incredibly smooth vibrato has to be heard to be believed, they make any Matt Monro CD an absolute must for any music enthusiast. He was Britain’s best balladeer and an incomparable singer of love songs. Listen to his version of “Yesterday”, “People” and the highly emotional “Softly As I Leave You”, he keeps us wanting more – but that’s a show business rule, right?

Matt was famous for recording several film tracks but the little known “I’ve Grown Accustomed To Her Face” is a lesser know melody that is a valid inclusion in this compilation.

Highlights of this classic album include the hard to find tracks, “Close To You” and “Lily M’Lady”, which finally see the light of day on CD. These are the hidden gems that have been secreted in vaults for years waiting to be released and the listener is not going to be disappointed.

This exclusive CD commissioned by Tesco is further confirmation that the Monro fame is not waning; he is more sought after now than in previous years, rather like a fine wine left to age, bringing out it’s unique flavour and inimitable aroma the longer it is left. It has taken a few years for Britain to appreciate their own home grown talent and this is further affirmation that Monro is a classic and timeless vintage with an undeniably great flavour. He will continue to lure new audiences because of his classic interpretations. Pure talent and no vocal gimmicks, you can’t ask for a better vintage than that.

Whether you are a Monro aficionado, a lover of good music, an occasional buyer of CD’s or have only just recently discovered Matt’s kind of music, then you will not be disappointed with this latest offering. Just sit back, relax and marvel at the wonderful artistry that is MATT MONRO