Mourne Observer, April 15, 1978

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Mourne Observer

UK & Ireland newspapers

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The other Elvis


Terence Bowman

Elvis Costello began to gain prominence in the music world in 1977, at around the same time as his namesake left it.

He has now had two hit singles — "Watching the Detectives" and "I Don't Want to Go to Chelsea" — and two successful albums — My Aim Is True and This Year's Model.

Belfast, so often a leper to the "big names," played host to him for a grand St. Patrick's Night Special, and what a night it was!

Appearing like an emaciated Buddy Holly (!), Mr. Costello peered out at the capacity Ulster Hall audience from behind his National Health spectacles and grabbed every one of them with his music.

The dominant keyboard and drum sound gave a feeling not a million miles from the winning formula which has given Blondie that massive hit "Denis."

Elvis' voice was the magic wand which transformed the show from something more than just pop. Nasal, almost asthmatic, it conveyed a strength that belied the man's superficial weediness.

His songs reflected a negative sort of attitude, i.e. the line from "Little Triggers" — "I don't wanna be hung up, strung up, when you don't call up." But combined with the music they are melodic masterpieces.

The reception for Elvis Costello was amazing. The crowd made a sound worthy of a cup final. Four encores ended the show — and not even Don Williams or Kenny Rogers could produce that!

The "Punk Rock" scene of 1977 produced a number of tedious, mediocre or just plain boring groups. It also produced a number of talented artistes not remotely connected with the movement. Elvis Costello is one, and he should go far.


Tags: Ulster HallBelfastNorthern IrelandThe AttractionsWatching The Detectives(I Don't Want To Go To) ChelseaMy Aim Is TrueThis Year's ModelBuddy HollyBlondieLittle Triggers

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Mourne Observer, April 15, 1978


Terence Bowman reviews Elvis Costello & The Attractions, Friday, March 17, 1978, Ulster Hall, Belfast, Northern Ireland.

Images

1978-04-15 Mourne Observer page 06 clipping 01.jpg
Clipping.

Photo by Terence Bowman.
1978-04-15 Mourne Observer photo 01 tb.jpg


Page scans.
1978-04-15 Mourne Observer page 01.jpg 1978-04-15 Mourne Observer page 06.jpg

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