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Madison Square Garden is inexorably connected in my mind with Menudo, Kiss and Hulk Hogan — the giants of popular culture. When I saw an advertisement for Elvis Costello's appearance there, I pictured him joining the elite ranks of those who can sell out the Garden.
Apparently, Costello doesn't know yet that he is a legend. The man doesn't make music like the institution that he is. His latest album, Blood and Chocolate, is raw and energetic. All of the tracks are consistently strong; there is not a single disappointment here.
No one has ever accused Costello of being a great vocalist, but just as the legendary Bob Dylan can get away with the way that he sings because of what he sings, Costello also seems perfectly suited to his own music. He is at his natural and raspy best on this album. The wrenching "I Want You" shows intensity and great emotion, as Costello verges on the psychotic in singing of an obsessive relationship. His voice cracks and breaks painfully while he pathetically and desperately tries to hold on.
The rest of Blood and Chocolate moves along with energy. The Attractions sound great and could pass for a brand new band pouring all of their energy into a session.
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