The Songs Of Bacharach & Costello Super Deluxe 2 LP/4 CD - Definitive

In this review of The Songs of Bacharach & Costello Super Deluxe edition, the bottom line is simple: collectors and fans of sophisticated pop songwriting will find this package indispensable. Compiled by Elvis Costello, the set gathers every published collaboration with Burt Bacharach and pairs the newly remastered Painted From Memory with a trove of unreleased material and live performances, making the Super Deluxe edition the single best way to experience their three-decade partnership in one place. For listeners who value context and completeness, this edition delivers both audio and liner-note depth.

Key Features

• Complete collaborations: Brings together all published songs written by Costello and Bacharach so listeners can follow the songwriting arc across decades.
• Remastered album: Includes a newly remastered version of Painted From Memory that improves clarity and presence for modern listening systems.
• Unreleased material: Features Taken From Life, a collection of previously unreleased songs from the proposed musical score that expands the narrative beyond the original album.
• Live performances: Adds live recordings that showcase how the songs translate in concert settings and provide alternate interpretations.
• Detailed essay: Contains a 10,000 word essay by Elvis Costello that supplies rare insight into the collaboration and creative process.
• Super Deluxe packaging: Presented as a 2 LP/4 CD super deluxe set designed for collectors who want comprehensive presentation and extras.

Who It's For

This edition is aimed squarely at long-time fans of Elvis Costello, admirers of Burt Bacharach's songwriting craft, and collectors of deluxe music packages who appreciate expanded editions and archival material. Listeners who enjoy detailed liner notes and context will value the 10,000 word essay and the inclusion of unreleased songs that illuminate the pair's work.

Casual listeners who only want a handful of hits or a streaming playlist may find this package more than they need; those buyers should consider a single-disc compilation or digital playlist instead. Audiophiles and collectors who own previous pressings will appreciate the remastering and the additional discs here.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Comprehensive assembly of the Costello/Bacharach catalog makes it a one-stop collection.
• Newly remastered Painted From Memory improves sonic detail and balance for modern systems.
• Taken From Life and live tracks provide fresh listening material even for long-time fans.
• The 10,000 word essay gives deep context and enhances appreciation of the songwriting partnership.

Cons

• The Super Deluxe format is aimed at collectors and may be more costly and bulky than a single-disc option.

Specifications

Title	The Songs of Bacharach & Costello
Edition	Super Deluxe 2 LP / 4 CD
Included album	Newly remastered Painted From Memory
Additional collection	Taken From Life (unreleased songs)
Extras	Live performances and 10,000 word essay by Elvis Costello
Artist collaborators	Elvis Costello and Burt Bacharach

Our Verdict

The Songs of Bacharach & Costello Super Deluxe edition is a smart buy for collectors and fans who want the definitive set of their collaborations, complete with remastering, unreleased material, and extensive notes. It represents strong value for those who appreciate archival content and the musical partnership's full context.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does this edition include Painted From Memory?
Yes, it contains a newly remastered version of Painted From Memory included in the Super Deluxe set.

Are there unreleased songs in this collection?
Yes, the set includes Taken From Life, a collection of previously unreleased songs from the proposed musical score.

Is there written material included?
Yes, the package features a detailed 10,000 word essay by Elvis Costello that provides context and background.