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After two albums of competent songwriting hampered by Clive Langer and Alan Winstanley's cluttered production, the new Elvis record is more than a breath of fresh air, it's a whole 'nother breeze. Teaming up with T Bone Burnett, Larry Hirsch and David Miner, Costello (reverting to his real name, Declan Patrick Aloysius MacManus, in the credits) has fashioned a low-key masterpiece, for the first time more successful for what it doesn't say than for what it does.
The Attractions, Costello's crack band, are only around for one cut (the poignant "Suit of Lights"), but a revolving group of outstanding players, ranging from rockabilly great James Burton to renowned jazz bassist Ray Brown, ensures that they aren't really missed. As on Imperial Bedroom, still Costello's best, King of America's tunes flow seamlessly into each other, demanding nothing until you listen closer. Then you start to notice things: the way Elvis' voice cracks (a la his idol, Gram Parsons) on "I'll Wear It Proudly"; the regal accordion on "American Without Tears"; the terrific imagery of "Poisoned Rose" and "Indoor Fireworks"; the lonely steel guitar of "Our Little Angel."
The hilarious cover photo would have you believe that King of America is a throwback to the punk Elvis of This Year's Model or Armed Forces; although it's not, that sneer is indeed priceless. So is this record.
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