Wisely, Tyrell recruited Patti Austin for two duets: “I Say A Little Prayer” and “Don’t Make Me Over.”  In addition to being a superior solo singer, Austin remains one of the best duet partners of all time.  She nicely complements, but never overshadows, the other singer’s voice. 

Before finishing the album, his wife and music co-producer, Stephanie, passed away from colorectal cancer.  In her memory (as well as Tyrell’s friend Katie Couric’s husband Jay Monahan), Tyrell assembled an all-star group to remake “What the World Needs Now.”  Proceeds from the single will support colorectal cancer research.  Accompanied by Bacharach on piano, guest stars include Stewart, Warwick, James Taylor, and Martina McBride.  The latter two fare the best, with McBride more than able to keep up with such strong singers, and Taylor proving once again that he can sing just about any style of music.  Could a Bacharach tribute album be in his future?    

Tyrell clearly demonstrates his great affection for friend Bacharach’s catalog, and deserves credit for attempting to sing such difficult material.  Nevertheless, The Carpenters, Luther Vandross, Warwick, Sergio Mendes & Brasil ’66, and other singers established in the Bacharach canon loom too large over the album.  Back to Bacharach simply cannot replace, or enhance, these original recordings.   

For more information on Tyrell and Back to Bacharach, visit Tyrell’s website.  The CD is scheduled to be released on May 27, 2008.