London Observer, June 4, 2006

Sunday June 4, 2006 The Observer ( London)

Elvis Costello & Allen Toussaint

The River in Reverse (Universal)

Angry codger Costello and New Orleansveteran Toussaint decided to work together when they met at a benefit gig for the latter's recovering city. The result, recorded there late last year, is this soulful, rocking baker's dozen with backing from the Imposters and a kicking horn section. Toussaint is an amazing pianist and you wish he was more prominent here; only on 'Ascension Day' is he alone to back Costello and the combination is gorgeous. The title track and 'Broken Promise Land' barely conceal barbs for the US government and its response to Hurricane Katrina. Molloy Woodcraft