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Elvis Costello, one of the original figures in the 197678 British new wave movement. will appear with his hand. the Attractions, on their "English Mug's Tour with their old China's Squeeze" Sunday at 9 p.m. in Carmichael Auditorium on the campus of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.
From the outset of his career Costello has been critically considered one of the more talented of new-wave performers. His debut album. My Aim Is True. gave him instant popularity by becoming the first new-wave album to make the American Top 50.
The album also established Costello as an outspoken critic of the political situation in Britain; "Less Than Zero" is a direct attack on British right-winger Oswald Mosely.
This Year's Model, Costello's second effort, was released less than a year later. He continued his outspoken social commentary with "Radio, Radio," an attack on the rock-and-roll industry, his own life's blood. The song demonstrates Costello's willingness to speak his mind, even if it means stepping on his own toes.
Costello's next record was Armed Forces, which was followed by Get Happy!!. The first was a much more politically oriented record than the previous two, and the work also received more critical acclaim.
Get Happy!! was Costello's attempt to set a record for the most songs on one album, accumulating 20 in the final count. He even made a television commercial to promote this fourth album. which tended to live up to the enthusiasm of its title.
Costello's latest record, Taking Liberties, is strictly an American release and, once again, consists of an in credible 20 songs. This time however the record buyer is being supplied with flip sides of British singles and other material that was previously available only through imports. Critical reaction has been mixed and Costello has even been accused of holding a "rummage sale."
Despite the controversy surrounding his newest release, Costello remains a forerunner in the ever-expanding world of new wave music. His live shows have received consistent praise and new-wave fans as well as potential converts should make plans to be in Chapel Hill Sunday night.
Advance tickets are $6; tickets on the day of the show will be $7. They are available now at the Carolina Union box office, the WQDR store and School Kids Records in Raleigh.
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