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Elvis Costello has risen from obscure eccentric to rock star in a short space of time. On Saturday at the Roundhouse he impressed yet again, making light of the problems caused by the absence of his bass player, Bruce Thomas, with an injured hand. The squeals of delight which greeted the news were rather unkind to Thomas but understandable as the replacement was Nick Lowe, Costello's record producer and fellow new wave idol. Costello performed the first two numbers solo. Even standing on stage alone he captivated the audience. His odd appearance — short back and sides, black heavy-rimmed glasses, collar and tie, and a suit which, like his guitar, seems a couple of sizes too big — matches his presentation. His staggering movements suggest a severe vitamin deficiency and his pained voice suggests something much more serious. The distorted voice in no way detracts from the overall effect, though, as it matches his songs and appearance perfectly.
Once he was joined by Lowe and the two fit members of his backing band The Attractions, he was soon into familiar material. "No Action," the first track on his current chart album This Year's Model, was no reference to the lively audience which was loving every minute of the performance.
He alternated fast rocking numbers with slower more intricate songs, several of which had that now characteristic near-reggae beat. Costello added frills rather than solos with his guitar, while the jangling organ provided the rhythm and most of the musical virtuosity.
Songs which stood out were "Less Than Zero," his current hit single, "Chelsea," and "Alison," a schmaltzy ballad would you believe. When it came to encores, it seems they were stuck for material which Lowe could help out on, so Thin Lizzie's Phil Lynott substituted on bass for one number and they finished with a Lowe composition "Heart Of The City."
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