Ottawa Citizen, May 2, 2008

Police melt years away for 12,000 faithful

Lynn Saxberg, The Ottawa Citizen Published: Friday, May 02, 2008

(extract)

During his generous, hour-long opening set, British rock legend Elvis Costello spun through his catalogue, harkening back to the days when vinyl ruled, and including a couple of songs from his new disc, Momofuko, which is available on vinyl. Not a shiny piece of plastic, he noted between songs, but a "big black vinyl record."

Yup, that's right. In an era when artists are seeking hot new technology to deliver their music, the famously crusty Costello chose to debut his new studio album last month on vinyl (with a digital download key), though it will be released on CD later this month.

From that new album, recorded with the core Imposters band members, came the lyrical My Three Sons and the crisp rocker American Gangster Time. They blended seamlessly with classic material such as Alison and Accidents Will Happen. Also given new life by Costello and his band were the lilting Watching the Detectives and searing versions of Radio Radio, Pump it Up and (What's So Funny 'Bout) Peace, Love and Understanding. It was a terrific set.