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The big difference between Elvis Costello and other artists in the same establishment is that he is still an impassionated music-lover, a deadly devoted fan who purchases some 3,000 records each year, while most of his colleagues since long have forgotten why they started playing in the first place. There is accordingly a certain logic in the fact that this — since long expected — album of song interpretations is so much better, and more enjoyable, than all — and I mean all — other cover-albums that have been released during the last 20 years.
Costello is driven by lust and love, while Rod is driven by sleepy routine; he wants to preach and spread knowledge, while Elton is only looking for new bucks. But most of all: he knows of an ocean of undiscovered classics, while Eric Clapton regards "Dark End Of The Street" as being obscure.
Kojak Variety hosts 15 more or less unknown, but without exception brilliant — and splendidly performed — compositions by such widely diversed composers as Ray Davies, Nat King Cole, Mose Allison, Randy Newman and Little Richard.
Best of all are Bacharach/David's painfully melancholic "Please Stay" and Little Willie John's smashing "Leave My Kitten Alone." Second best are Costello's affectionated sleeve-notes. They prove that he could have been a brilliant music writer as well.
A very, very amiable album.
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