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Elvis Costello's new/old album entitled Taking Liberties is actually a compilation of unreleased masters, English album cuts, rare B-sides and collectors items.
The most familiar cut on the album is one that was recorded by Linda Ronstadt and Dave Edmunds entitled "Girls Talk." Perhaps the most amazing thing about this record is the amount of material included, a total of 20 compositions.
It seems that Costello is leading the fight to bring back the two-minute song. But, have you ever tried to boogie for two minutes and then call it quits? It's not easy to do. Once I get started I'm good for at least three.
Now, don't get me wrong, Taking Liberties has its moments. They're just not long enough.
Apart from the lengths of the songs, one of the highlights is a positively eerie version of the Rodgers and Hart classic "My Funny Valentine," which was originally released as a single on red vinyl for Valentine's Day. Needless to say, it got some radio airplay but not a great deal.
The cut "(I Don't Want To Go To) Chelsea" is good solid Costello rock 'n' roll. This song, along with "Crawling To The U.S.A." were part of the Americathon movie soundtrack, a zany flick starring Harvey Korman, which featured a cameo appearance by Costello.
On another positive note, Taking Liberties does show off Costello's diversity. From rock 'n' roll to country, slide guitars and all, to the blues, Costello is a performer with a lot of depth. Credit must also be given to his band "The Attractions," which plays extremely well both live and on record.
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