Alfie [1966] [Original Music from the Score] [Verve Acoustic Sounds Series] [180g LP] in Bloomington, MN

Tenor saxophonist
Sonny Rollins
loaned his flair for the dramatic to the score for the film
Alfie
, accompanying the story of what the liner notes describe as "the involuntary education of a hipster." Arranged by
Oliver Nelson
, the soundtrack follows the character's evolution from the carefree, rakish Lothario of "Alfie's Theme" to the contemplative, somewhat broken man reflected in "Alfie's Theme Differently."
Rollins
attempts to capture the textures of life through his incisive and energetic playing, his coherent improvisations, and variations on musical themes. While "Alfie's Theme" and its variants make the most lasting impression, "He's Younger Than You Are" is touching, laced with regret. And the sensual, relaxed "On Impulse" has a nice sense of immediacy. ~ Rovi Staff