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In a statement likely to dismay the marketing men at Universal Music, the singer-songwriter expressed disbelief at the astronomical cost and recommended that discerning listeners buy a set of Louis Armstrong albums instead.
The box set to which Costello referred, The Return of the Spectacular Spinning Songbook, is being released this month as a limited edition of 1,500 and it includes a CD, DVD, vinyl EP and coffee-table book.
Costello acknowledged that it was a “beautifully designed compendium”. However, writing on his website, he told fans: “There was a time when the release of a new title by your favourite record artist was a cause for excitement and rejoicing but sadly no more.
“Unfortunately, we at www.elviscostello.com find ourselves unable to recommend this lovely item to you as the price appears to be either a misprint or a satire.”
He likened the price to an “elaborate hoax” and said fans should wait until the New Year, when the items will be on sale separately at a more affordable price.
“If you should really want to buy something special for your loved one at this time of seasonal giving, we can whole-heartedly recommend Ambassadors of Jazz [by] Louis Armstrong," the singer went on, pointing out that the Armstrong box set offers 10 albums for the same price as the Spinning Songbook.
He added: “Frankly, the music is vastly superior.”
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