There are those who enjoy listening to Elvis Costello as long as they don't have to look at him — the same sorts, one suspects, who can kiss anything with the lights out.
The gawky Costello and his goon-squad sidemen (misnamed "The Attractions") look less bizarre than ever on the jacket of their third album, Armed Forces. Elvis even shows a trace of a smile in one photo.
Their music has mellowed as well, much in the same way The Ramones tried to normalize "New Wave" rock but without the latter group's cloying cuteness.
While a bit softer around the edges, Costello's basic sound remains that of '50s 45s played through a phono with a loose tube or two which renders the end result somewhere between The Shirelles and Iggy Pop.
But here the man who once said the only emotions in his music were "revenge and guilt" spins a, well, lovely closing tune titled "What's So Funny 'Bout Peace, Love and Understanding." (Even if the bum still refuses to include lyric sheets).
For those who miss the raunch reminiscent of his initial masterpiece, Elvis Costello, the man includes a live EP from a recent Hollywood High concert, a pretty piece of plastic cut loud and clear.
The bonus disc features an interesting if not compelling six-minute version of "Watching the Detectives;" another rendition of Armed Forces' leadoff tune, "Accidents Will Happen," a catchy number with more hooks than a coatrack; and the performance of "Alison" which reportedly convinced Linda Ronstadt to cover the ballad.
Now, Linda. C'mon, lady. First you butcher my man Warren Zevon's efforts; now Elvis. I love ya, Linda, but when will you learn to leave well enough alone? You can make it on your own, babe. Now get outta here, I mean it!
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