Review of North
The Nation, 2003-11-04

 

North/Elvis Costello (Deutsche Grammophon)

Sometimes complexity can be disguised as simplicity. Sometimes the quietest moments can speak the loudest. While perhaps not to everyone’s taste, Elvis Costello’s “North” is certainly an inspiring example of less being indeed much more.

In this case, more heart, more soul, more passion. People who dig the rave-up assault of “Pump It Up” may or may not enjoy the country twang of “A Good Year For The Roses”.

People who love the urbane song structures of “Painted From Memory” may or may not appreciate wilder sonic experiments like “Hurry Down Doomsday”. And that’s okay. But for the adventurous, sophisticated listener, “North” is a hugely gratifying piece of work by the amazing Costello.

A heartfelt paean to love lost and love found, it slowly and delicately reveals its complicated emotions in unexpected and genuinely moving ways. As a songwriter, vocalist and entertainer, few artists can match the sustained brilliance and unparalleled musical integrity of Costello.

His aim has always been true – but now it’s headed true “North”.