1995 Robson Green & Jerome Flynn: Unchained Melody

Third outing at the top for this song (itself a record), and if proof were needed that it's something anyone could have a hit with, this version comes courtesy of two TV actors who originally sang it in character in their 'Soldier Soldier' series. Yet with the vintage Righteous Brothers version a recent number one too, the question is begged as to what the pair bring to the table that's different. And other than the residual sentimental bleed over from the TV, the answer is a resounding 'nothing'. I'm not suggesting that anybody was expecting a rap makeover, but this present take puts me in mind of an image of the Righteous Brothers put through the cartoon-ification function of a computer photo suite. Bobby Hadfield's sedate delivery is followed and mimicked by a Jerry Lewis squeak that robs it of any grace and ceremony, aided and abetted by a Stock and Aitken production that takes it as close to cheesy pop as it dares. It's competent karaoke and on that score would no doubt be worthy of a round of applause and a drink behind the bar on a weekend, but it's a lame number one that sells itself on its own patriotic worthiness and a vague 'golden oldie' nostalgia and it only serves to waste my time.