"Skyfall" Adele

It's been 50 years since Bond, James Bond, first graced the silver screen, and in celebration, Adele yesterday released "Skyfall," the theme song from the series' upcoming 23rd film of the same name. In contrast to recent efforts by the likes of Madonna and Chris Cornell, the track forgoes contemporary trends and action movie pacing for a more classically Bondian vibe. Backed by a lush 77-piece orchestra and a sample of Monty Norman's iconic original 007 theme, Adele is sultry and evocative, recalling those great Shirley Bassey tunes of yesteryear. The stately elegance of "Skyfall," however, is unlikely to leave listeners much shaken or stirred. B+