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To the Editor:
Having yet to make a contribution to the News Record myself, I am somewhat ashamed of this letter. Yet, I must rate the News Record's appraisal of Elvis Costello's Cincinnati appearance (Feb. 24) one of the sloppiest pieces of critical journalism I have ever read.
Yes, Costello's music is simple; it does sound like early 60's rock 'n' roll; and he does look like Woody Allen. Yes, there is a New Wave, and it lives in many of us who are tired of mass-media, Top 40 pap and are looking for a new musical direction — a more realistic direction.
It is a shame that this space is too small for me to recreate the message of his music. It is a shame that his words were "unintelligible." It is also a shame that, while some of us were learning the finer arts of literary, and musical, expression, you were immersed in the myriad teachings of the Led Zeppelin cult.
While admitting that you know nothing of the man, you insist, nevertheless, at drawing conclusions upon his genre. Woe be unto the critic who is ignorant of that which he reviews.
Costello is not a nilhilist. The personae he assumes is that of a beaten-down adolescent who has suddenly realized his own potential. He is not angry, rather, he is confused, while remaining open. He is honest, while assuming the air of toughness that has pushed him down for so long.
His aim is true; yours is way off.
Ralph Knapp
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