21 The Gershwin Brothers, Ira and George composed “Fascinatin’ Rhythm” in 1924. As songwriters they captured the actual essence – the very spirit of all wonder- filled music, just as Duke Ellington composed “It Don’t Mean a Thing (If It Ain’t Got That Swing)” in 1931 It’s something which is a fundamental dictate for the most respected gentleman of Australian entertainment, both stage and screen, Tom Burlinson. The vibe is easy to describe. It’s the aliveness – the “joie de vivre” exuberances injected into some of most famous tunes of the Great American Songbook. In amazing forward planning, Tom arranged for a 20 piece, handpicked orchestra. It provided what was to become one of the smoothest, “inthe-pocket” sounds since a modern version of the Glenn Miller Orchestra was at Twin Towns a few years back. We’re talking about various strings, a wide horn section, drums, and a vibrant double bass. And that wonderful white grand piano? It once belonged to Peter Allen. The orchestra maintained their swingin’ momentum throughout the entire 90-minute program. Toms’ voice has developed more golden over the years. His tonality Music Review Reviewed by 101FM Radio Presenter Stu Robertson www.101fm.com.au | Photography by Michelle Cop (MC Photography) actually blends, shades, tints, and colours the maturity he personally pours in. Every classic became a feast; every audience member left full and satisfied. For almost every song there’s an enjoyable super-quick backstory, giving ‘a-ha’ moments of being inside the composers’ minds. For example, Johnny Mercer and Henry Mancini - Tom served up a silkysmooth version of their “Moon River”. Others, like Irving Berlin’s gift to the world of “Always” and “Blue Skies”. Who could forget Cole Porters’ “Night and Day”, and the much loved “I Get a Kick Out of You”? The surprise inclusion of Don McLean’s – “And I Love You So” (recorded in June ‘69) was the relative newcomer which slotted in perfectly. Discovering Tom Burlinson and his orchestras’ favourite song from the repertoire was impossible. It’s been said “An amateur practises until they play it right, a professional until it can’t go wrong”. This concert was the perfect marriage of spirit and sound. What a Wonderful World! Step into the world of Burt Bacharach – the definitive composer of timeless pop. His music shaped a generation, and now his greatest hits are brought to life in this dazzling celebration. Hear the classics that defined an era: “Walk On By”, “I Say a Little Prayer”, “Raindrops Keep Fallin’ On My Head”, “Anyone Who Had a Heart”, “What’s New Pussycat”, “Close to You”, “Alfie”, “The Look of Love”, “Magic Moments”and many more. These are the unforgettable songs made famous by Dionne Warwick, Aretha Franklin, Dusty Springfield, Tom Jones, The Carpenters, Cilla Black, Perry Como and other icons. Direct from Las Vegas, acclaimed vocalists Marque Munday and EC Adams, backed by a full live band, deliver a powerhouse performance that captures the magic, romance and sophistication of Bacharach’s definitive songbook. Don’t miss THE BURT BACHARACH SONGBOOK – a spellbinding night of music and memories, celebrating the genius who wrote the soundtrack to our lives. WIN A DOUBLE PASS Saturday 31 October @ 8.00PM TWIN TOWNS SHOW ROOM, 2 Wharf St, Tweed Heads book online www.twintowns.com.au TO ENTER - EMAIL: info@localnewsletters.com with BURT SONGBOOK in the subject line. Please include your name, address phone number in the email. Entries close 30.09.2026. Winners will be notified by email. Tom Burlinson “Swingin’ The Great Standards” Twin Towns Review August 2026
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