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Singer-songwriter Elvis Costello has been in the forefront of modern popular music since his first album, My Aim Is True; and in a virtuoso performance he electrified the audience Monday evening at Kiel Opera House. Costello and his excellent band, the Attractions, packed the program with rock-and-roll fervor, which was heightened by his powerful stage presence and musical authority.
Costello, dapper in a sport coat and red shoes, isn't the type of performer who needs to posture or milk response from the crowd like a deranged cheerleader. His natural charisma and songs stand on their own. The set was rich in melody and pulsating rhythms.
Highlights are almost too many to mention, but we can't disregard the power of songs such as "Watching the Detectives," "Let Them All Talk," "New Lace Sleeves" and "Clubland." Over the course of his 10 superb record albums he has assembled as wide-ranging a catalogue of music as can be found in the repertory of any major rock act. He may be the finest songwriter of his generation.
Costello's voice was in fine shape. He sang even the most difficult passages effortlessly, with style, emotion and flair. Taking chances with both meter and melody was just part of his winning formula throughout the program.
The Attractions gave their usual punch to Costello's songs — they have developed a true musical partnership with him. Bassist Bruce Thomas and drummer Pete Thomas (no relation) are as interesting a rhythm section as can be found in any musical genre. Steve Naive pulled countless textures from his piano and synthesizers, and set the atmosphere for Costello's most potent songs. They made everything seem to have been accomplished in one fluid motion. One almost expected to see them sweat in unison.
After a set full of great moments Costello came back for an encore, this time alone, accompanying himself with his red Stratocaster electric guitar through three beautiful ballads. Only such a powerful performer could have pulled off so daring a move. He filled the theater with his ringing vocal tones. He left the stage and was called back once again by the cheering fans, this time with the Attractions. Costello plunged into another seven-song encore, putting in some of his most popular material — "Alison," "Man Out of Time" and "Every Day I Write the Book." The audience, it seemed, wanted him to go on all night.
Nick Lowe and his band opened the show with a strong set of rock that touched on many styles from the last three decades of music. Lowe was indeed dressed in his best cowboy attire and is a very positive performer. He sang many of his most popular hits including "Heart of the City," "Crackin' Up" and his new single release "Half a Boy and Half a Man."
His band, Cowboy Outfit, featured two of the finest musicians to come out of the British pub-rock scene. Martin Belmont, who's biting guitar licks have adorned LPs by artists including Graham Parker and the Rumour, was in terrific form, filling the songs with strong rhythms and solos. Pianist-vocalist Paul Carrack nearly stole that part of the show from Lowe with songs he has made famous from his stints as singer for groups including Ace and Squeeze. The three he chose Monday night were "Tempted," "How Long?" and "I Need You."
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