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Elvis Costello's new album, Imperial Bedroom, is a definite must for any discriminating music collector. If you're already an Elvis fan, this should be the top priority on the list of albums to purchase. If you're not, this one may change your mind.
Costello's critical insights on society are still as perceptive as ever. Now, however, they're tempered with an ironic acceptance of his own human foibles. The picture presented is one of a more mature and vulnerable artist.
Costello realizes the necessity of a return to emotionalism and recognition of the need for sympathetic relationships. Two of his songs are followed by the tag "PS... I love you" and the "Human Hands" cut is a blatant declaration of devotion ("Whenever I put my foot in my mouth / and you begin to doubt / that it's you I'm dreaming about / Do I have to draw you a diagram / All I ever want is to fall into your human hands.")
Yet this hasn't totally blunted his critical observations on humanity. "Man Out of Time" openly attacks the hypocrisy of the upper class and its desire for power at the cost of human feeling, and "You Little Fool" seriously undermines the romantic notion of puppy love.
The presence of the lyrics on the inner sleeve is a great help in really recognizing the full range of Costello's witticisms.
Musically, the album is incredibly cohesive. While there are no "rockers" along the lines of "Pump it Up" or "Red Shoes," the majority of the songs are upbeat. The score of "The Long Honeymoon," with its accordions reminiscent of Paris and love, provides the perfect diametric backdrop for lyrics dealing with marital infidelity.
Costello has also broadened his instrumentals by adding orchestral arrangements in various spots. Perhaps the best juxtaposition occurs in "Man Out of Time," opening and ending with blaring guitar riffs and the sound of someone screaming, echoing the frustration of the writer with society and mimicking the differences between interior feelings and exterior facades.
The result is a more personal glimpse of Elvis Costello. All in all, Imperial Bedroom ranks as one of the best albums of the season.
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