The latest Elvis Costello release, Trust, is a clear indication that New Wave, as defined, is dead. Costello, as the most accessible exponent of what was once a minimalistic movement, has expanded the form's boundaries to the extent that his new music is limited by only his desire. He has established a new standard.
Trust is an impeccably arranged and produced album; the Nick Lowe-Elvis Costello tandum is rock's most perfectly matched producer-writer team. The Attractions, Steve Nieve on keyboards, Bruce Thomas on bass, and Pete Thomas on drums, execute Costello's songs with unerring imagination. There are 14 well-crafted, pointed songs that support Costello's reputation as a brilliant songwriter, perhaps the best at work today.
But there are flaws, albeit forgivable ones. Trust is by no means Costello's finest work. In many ways, this is a careful album and Costello has matured so much as vocalist that his voice has lost a touch of its edge. The straight-ahead rockers, with the exception of "Lovers Walk," never fully take off.
But there are at least two stunners here ("Shot With His Own Gun" and "Big Sister's Clothes"), brilliant performances by Nieve (on "New Lace Sleeves", "Strict Time" and "Watch Your Step") and frighteningly powerful vocals ("White Knuckles," "Shot With His Own Gun," "Watch Your Step"). And there is growth and strength.
Even when Costello gets cute and relies on a calculated vocal or a familiar musical theme, his lyrical outlook and the splendor of the Attractions more than saves the song.
Trust is less dependent on eccentric peculiarities than other Costello releases; he is content to let the song stand on its own and they are strong enough to do that quite handily.
There is a certain confidence that comes through on Trust. And, despite often dark images, there is a certain joy too. It may come from Costello's knowledge that he is at the top of the game.
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