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The Costello Show features a new Elvis
Larry Katz
The Costello Show (featuring Elvis Costello)
King Of America
Don't Let Me Be Misunderstood /
Baby's Got A Brand New Hairdo
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Changes for Elvis Costello. He's changed his name (from Elvis Costello back to what it was originally: Declan MacManus). He's changed the name of his act (from Elvis Costello & the Attractions to the Costello Show). He's changed his backup musicians (using the Attractions on only one cut on his new album). And he's changed his music (from rock to an acoustic blend of folk, country, and rockabilly).
Unfortunately, Costello — or should I say MacManus? — hasn't changed his recent convoluted songwriting style. The mostly slow, mostly downbeat songs on King of America sag from the weight of their overwrought lyrics. In the past, the inventive playing of the Attractions held your interest even when Costello's lyrics were at their most obtuse. His hired backup stars (Elvis Presley's rhythm section of James Burton, Ron Tutt and Jerry Scheff, living legends Ray Brown and Earl Palmer) are wonderful musicians but they sound dull as dirt by comparison.
Tellingly, the best song on King of America is the spooky cover version of the Animals' mid-60s hit, "Don't Let Me Be Misunderstood." It's available by itself as a single. And you get a bonus: the non-album flip side, "Brand New Hairdo," has more rock-flavored energy — and more of the old Costello anger — than anything on King of America.
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Grade: B for King of America; A-minus for "Don't Let Me Be Misunderstood."
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Clipping.
Page scan.
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External links
