Adele’s ‘Skyfall’ easily transcends the inevitable pressures underpinning the composition of a new theme tune for one of the biggest action series in cinematic history.

Be under no illusion that this is definitely a Bond theme, identifiable even before the lyrics are sung. But it doesn’t smack of cliché. Bond elements are necessarily included to assuage fans of its traditionalism – note the conscious decision to blend the song with elements of Monty Norman’s “James Bond Theme”. But this is not a song just for fans of the films: a sublime opening makes it instantly recognisable as an Adele song. Adele’s boldness is in keeping the song modern and in line with her acclaimed repertoire of ballads. Her signature smoothness is juxtaposed with a fiery nature, which is truly appreciated in the final third of the song.

Recently, the franchise has seen a shift towards themes with more contemporary elements (“You Know My Name”, Another Way To Die” and Madonna’s daring mashed dance track “Die Another Day”), which were refreshing and alluring tunes with appeal to the previously uninitiated.
Despite this, ‘Skyfall’ is a welcome piece of nostalgia; a return to the Bassey days when Bond themes had big band brass, and vocalists with believable soul. Despite its evident references to death and violence, it’s hard to escape the romanticism. Beautiful, dreamy lyrics tell of a couple whose love is strong enough to hold up the world: “Let the sky fall, when it crumbles, we will stand tall”. And with subtle in-jokes (“You may have my number, you can take my name/but you’ll never have my heart”) and references to previous films, it’s not without a pinch of dry humour.

‘Skyfall’ is a magnificent addition to the catalogue of Bond themes; not entirely non-conformist, but with enough individuality to stand out. A pleasure to the ears; simply, an aural triumph.