Jazz Rocks Harlem's Apollo
The 1958 Art Kane photo "A Great Day in Harlem" featured 57 jazz musicians posed on the steps and sidewalk in front of a Harlem brownstone. It is arguably the most famous jazz photo ever taken.
Elvis Costello, Irma Thomas, Cyril Neville, Deacon John sang Allen Toussaint's praises and songs
Early in Tuesday night's (April 30) star-studded 75th birthday tribute to Allen Toussaint at the Harrah's Theater in New Orleans, the honoree was called on stage to accept a pair of long-overdue Grammy nominee medallions.
Stars turn out to pay tribute to Allen Toussaint and raise money for NOAAHH
Allen Toussaint celebrated his 75th birthday surrounded by an audience of fans and a stage full of singing stars on Tuesday night at Harrah’s New Orleans Theatre.
Elvis Costello and The Who
"To put a punctuation mark on their set, Costello and the Imposters concluded by playing a version of the Who’s classic song “Substitute.”"
Elvis Costello & The Imposters: Palais Theatre
Over two hours, the dazzling vaudeville approach,the random set-list device and Kelly the shagadelic go-go dancer had comprised an ingenuously fresh and often hilarious inroad to Costello's vast catalogue.
Elvis Costello Was The Most Exciting Show At Hardly Strictly Bluegrass
The main Friday evening kick-off concert at the Hardly Strictly Bluegrass festival in San Francisco's Golden Gate Park belonged to Elvis Costello this year.
"In The Kingdom Of Orange"
"He picked up the uke and dropped his delivery to a near whisper on a straight-from-the-heart, old-school love song that seemed targeted to her: “I Know Why (And So Do You)"
Elvis Costello's solo acoustic show breathtaking at the Barclay
"Who else of his caliber but maybe Springsteen would dare such an astonishing move? Like the rest of his performance, only magnified hundredfold, it was spellbinding – and ended much too soon"
"Exceptional Whistling Skills"
Elvis Costello didn’t bask in his thunderous greeting from the audience. He just picked up his guitar and played.
Is It Worth It?
It takes a big song to fill an hour's programming dedicated to it but Shipbuilding – written by Elvis Costello and Clive Langer, and sung by Robert Wyatt– easily justified Is It Worth It? (Radio 2)
"Equal Parts carnival barker and Ronnie Barker"
Equal parts carnival barker and Ronnie Barker, he brings members of the
crowd up to spin the wheel with the help of glamorous assistant, and
Tess Daly lookalike, Katya from the Ukraine
"Shut Up And Don't Sing"
Quick Costello Doesn't Have The Sense To Finish On Time
"Concert of the year" by Elvis Costello in the CCH
He inherited this soft spot for this form of entertainment from his grandfather and his father, who were both musicians in entertainment orchestras.
From Circus Costello To Lonesome Elvis
That Elvis Costello has many variations is known, but the two sold-out performances that the glass wearing singer/songwriter has done in the past few days in the Ancienne Belgique and the Royal Circus couldn't be more different.
"Le Deux Rois de Belgique"
"He thought he was the King,
Le Roi de Belgique
But it was just another very foolish way to speak
A trick they do with mirror and with chemicals
The words of love once whispered were replaced by cries and shrieks"
"Basingstoke Postponement Announcement"
Regretfully, we have to announce that tonight's Spectacular Spinning Songbook concert by Elvis Costello and the Imposters at the Anvil Theatre in Basingstoke has been postponed due to short term vocal fatigue and doctors advice.
"Man Of A Thousand Faces, Band Of A Thousand Voices"
"Looking and sounding like Eric Morecambe’s impish rock-star nephew, Elvis Costello revealed his hitherto untapped talents as a music-hall comedian at the first British date of his Revolver tour."
Elvis Costello, Clyde Auditorium, Glasgow and Apollo, Manchester
All the echoes of an earlier era of music hall not only suits Costello's recent material – particularly in a later solo section that ends with a spot of ukulele strumming – but allows him to dip into any era of his career
"Looking and sounding like Eric Morecambe's impish rock-star nephew"
"Looking and sounding like Eric Morecambe’s impish rock-star nephew, Elvis Costello revealed his hitherto untapped talents as a music-hall comedian at the first British date of his Revolver tour."
"Costello channelling the sultry ways of Rihanna"
With a flapper girl, go-go dancer, and as much chance as a game of Russian roulette, nauseating circus colours and a real live version of his Spectacular Spinning Songbook both decorated the stage, and decided the fate of Elvis Costello's quick fire set.
Smashing all boundaries: The music of Elvis Costello
To some, Elvis Costello’s 35-year career may come off like a game of pin-the-tail-on-the-donkey. When the tail lands on the gut, he unleashes an angry anthem. Near the heart? Time for a ballad. On a hoof? Must be the cue for a ballet. Right on the rear? How boring.
Can you beat the 'Price is Right' wheel?
“If I spun the wheel 100 times, I would expect a normal distribution of speeds with a standard deviation of 0.1 radians per second."
"Muchas Gracias, Marisol, Merci Beaucoup, Vanessa"
E.C. and the Imposters would like to thank Marisol of L.A. band, La Santa Cecilia for lending her wonderful voice to "Don't Let Me Be Misunderstood" during our return to The Wiltern Theatre with the "Spectacular Spinning Songbook".The show was also lit up by the appearance of our...
Critic's pick: Elvis Costello and the Imposters, 'The Return of the Spectacular Spinning Songbook!!!'
"Get a hold of it, Brian, and spin it and don't let the fact that these people's happiness in the next five minutes is completely in your hands. Spin that wheel!"
Chuck Berry, Leonard Cohen Get First PEN Songwriting Awards
Keith Richards, Elvis Costello, Paul Simon pay tribute at JFK Library
Our correspondent's list of best St. Louis concerts of the year
1. Elvis Costello & the Imposters at the Pageant, July 1 2011.
"Let's make things sparkling clear"
We at www.elviscostello.com find ourselves unable to recommend “The Return Of The Spectacular Spinning Songbook” as the price appears to be either a misprint or a satire.All our attempts to have this number revised have been fruitless so we are taking the following unusual step.If you want...
Steal This Record
A Pastoral Address From The Right Reverend Jimmy Quickly
"Elvis Costello In Antwerp: "Sonic Youth reminding noise-version of 'Watching The Detectives""
DeMorgan.be: Bart Steenhaut: 10th November 2011.Halverwege zijn al maanden uitverkochte concert in de Elisabethzaal doetElvis Costello een bekentenis. "Het nummer dat ik nu ga spelen haat ikécht", zegt hij. Wat volgt is een bloedstollende versie van 'Everyday IWrite The Book', een van...
"Like A Broken Bassoon" - Touched For The Very First Time
Berliner Morgenpost: 8th November 2011.It's the ultimate test for a musician, when he introduces himself without a band to his fans. Elvis Costello mastered the challenge of Germany in his only concert bravura. With changing guitars he entertained the more than 3000 listeners in the Tempodrom in Berlin...
Six Guitars And A Hat: Elvis Costello Shines At The Vienna Konzerthaus
"For our German-speaking readers: Rave Notices For Vienna Concert Hall Show"
"Get Well Hubert"
Best wishes for a speedy recovery go to Hubert Sumlin who recently joined us at the Wellmont Theatre, Montclair for a run of songs that he first performed with Howlin’ Wolf. Hubert’s spirit and humour are undimmed by less robust health and it was a gas for us to share the stage...
The Last Revolution 2011
We cannot close here without tipping our hat to Hubert Sumlin who joined us at the Wellmont Theatre, Montclair for a run of songs that he first performed with Howlin’ Wolf.
The Last Revolution 2011
So, as we say farewell to the Spectacular Spinning Songbook for the year of 2011, we’d like to thank all of those who attended, span, swung the hammer and tripped the light fantastic…I would especially like to thank the Imposters both for their remarkable playing and for being sterling fellows,...
Elvis Costello Rocks the Keith
Huntington News: 10th October, 2011Huntington, WV (HNN) - Arriving in Huntington 20 minutes before show time, British music icon Elvis Costello once again proved the value of the Keith Albee Performing Arts Center and the Marshall Artists Series. Costello and his band almost did not make their...
Elvis At The Wellmont
Baristanet: Erika Bleiberg: 6th October, 2011"One of my favorite moments — and I was in good company in my appreciation, based on the cheering — was when he was alone on the stage and stepped away from the microphone. Costello’s vocals carried unassisted through the venue, and...
What goes around comes around better for Elvis Costello
Cliffview Pilot.com: Jerry Demarco: 6th October, 2011:The diabolical “I Want You” smoldered, as it should, building in vicious intensity, with Costello jack-hammering the guitar and Pete Thomas – as muscular and lightning-fast as ever -- snapping the skins. It was almost as if John...
"The Imposters are on point to deliver a killer show, and they're doing it on a nightly basis"
Hippiesaredead.com: 4th October, 2011The highlight of the evening came when Costello invited the crowd to leave the venues seating chary behind and rush the stage. Only at that point did it truly come together and feel like a rock show. Surrounded by an adoring fanbase, the band delivered...
Elvis Costello & The Imposters at United Palace Theater
Examiner: Jim Bessman: 3rd October, 2011"One other wheel-spinner merits special mention: the lovely Mary Louise Parker. She may not have survived last week's Weeds' season-ending cliffhanger, but she was certainly alive here, responding to Costello's "feel free to shake a tail feather"...
"The Spectacular Spinning Songbook - The Results"
Elvis Costello & The ImpostersHuntington, WVOctober 8th, 2011Overture - featuring the former Mother Superior of Our Lady of Perpetual Torment, Dixie De La FontaineI Hope You're Happy NowHeart Of The CityMystery DanceUncomplicatedRadio RadioThe Spectacular Spinning SongbookClubland - Spin 1This Wheel's...
Elvis Costello & The Imposters @ Paramount Theatre
Newsday: Glenn Gamboa: 30th September, 2011"When people started screaming for “Alison” in the middle of the song, he simply walked to the mic and finished it up and then walked off the stage. He did not return, ending what was still a wonderful opening night for The Paramount.Costello...
"Elvis Costello Warner Theatre Concert Curiosities"
The Imposters returned to the stage to join him on “Sleep of the Just,”
Elvis Costello and the Imposters at The Ryman
Nashville Scene: The Spin: 25th September, 2011How ‘bout getting show highlights like a smooth “Watching the Detectives,” which saw Costello singing walking around the theater floor? Or a captivating, slow-drawn take on Bob Dylan & The Band’s “This Wheel's on Fire”...
Fun, irreverence rule Elvis Costello show
As the 57-year-old applied smooth vocals to cinematically narrate 1981's "Watch Your Step," it became clear rock 'n' roll got lucky when Costello made the genre his main vocation.
Elvis Costello and the Imposters sold a few vowels at Chastain
Creative Loafing: James Kelly: September 26th, 2011In spite of his well-documented disdain for the somewhat stuffy Chastain Park vibe, Costello was a gentleman throughout the set, opening with a four-song roar, then donning his top hat and becoming the slightly demented hostRead More……
Elvis Costello At The Ryman Auditorium
American Songwriter: Blake Boldt: September 26th, 2011This wasn’t a night to be predicting anything. Elvis Costello’s stop at the Ryman Sunday night was most notable for its wacky format: A part of his Spectacular Spinning Songbook Tour, the performance established him as suave ringmaster...
"The Revolver Tour"
"The Revolver Tour" will resume this Saturday at Chastain Park, Atlanta before proceeding to the Ryman Auditorium, Nashville and the Murat Theatre, Indianapolis and beyond. Thanks go to our friends in Alabama and Florida for their understanding over the urgent need for the postponement of shows...
'Elmo's Super Heroes' comes to Times-Union Center'
Jacksonville.com: Tom Szarloeta: September 16th, 2011.Today’s issue of Jack was supposed to be all about Elvis Costello, the Rock and Roll Hall of Famer who was scheduled to appear at the Florida Theatre next week. But Costello had to postpone his show, leaving us scrambling for something to put...
Postponement Announcement
It is with regret and sorrow that Elvis Costello announces that he must delay the start of the next leg of "The Spectacular Spinning Songbook Tour" until the 24th of September in Atlanta. This is due to matters pertaining to the very serious illness of a close family member. All shows prior...
The New York Times - Another Spin of the Musical Wheel
The New York Times: Jon Pareles: May 24th, 2011“If I can’t cheat, who can?” he teased.But the real and gratifying cheat was that there is, in the end, no way to keep Mr. Costello’s songs in any shallow entertainment mode. His torrents of words hold desire, rage, wounds and revenge,...
Elvis Costello Rocks Amazing Singing Songbook Set
Rolling Stone: Patrick Doyle: May 24th 2011"For the final encore, Costello emerged in a gold suit and leopard-print hat and welcomed an audience member who exemplified the downside of a show with such heavy crowd participation. After Costello began the tender classic "Alison," she made...
"Don't Try This At Home, Kids"
Another Report From Our Georgian Correspondents
"Holy Freaking Flying Monkeys Of Fire - Larkin Poe's P.O.V."
In which Larkin Poe opens for the fantastic Elvis Costello (in Interlochen, Michigan). Holy, freaking, flying monkeys of fire; what an amazing night.... Thank you, thank you to Elvis and all his amazing folk for having us along! For more information about the little ole' opening band, please visit:...
A message to our friends in Richmond, VA.
"We share your regret and disappointment at the recent cancelations in your most excellent town but they were due to circumstances beyond the control of all concerned. When the original show was postponed due to illness on 20th of July, it was rescheduled with surprising...
Osheaga - Top Five Acts
Naption Urban Daily: Max Mertens: 2nd August, 2011Elvis Costello will be turning 57-years-old this month, yet his Saturday headlining set proved that he still has more energy than many bands at Osheaga half his age. Despite having a significantly smaller crowd than Eminem the previous night, the English...
Newport Folk Festival
” Elvis Costello, playing with his crack band, The Imposters, though billed as an acoustic performance, included gentle numbers such as “American Without Tears,” “Brilliant Mistake” and “Scarlet Tide” (with a guest appearance by Emmylou Harris).
Danceable Night Of Songs
"There was a go-go dancer, dressed in classic Hullabaloo, as well as audience members who also came up on stage to dance in the cage. And it was an extremely danceable night of songs"
Fashion Notes
Examiner.com: Jim Bessman: 24th July, 2011 "Sky high temperatures being what they were, he did wear less than his usual business attire, doffing the dark suit jacket for long-sleeved shirt and vest. Longtime keyboard ace Steve Nieve at least picked up the sartorial slack, in what appeared to be...
Life On The Ocean Wave
The Hartford Courant: Jack Coraggio: July 25th, 2011"Elvis Costello and the Imposters brought an unbelievably fantastic show that likely proselytized some New Wave converts. An energetic closer of "Pump It Up" and the fitting "What's So Funny (About Peace, Love and Understanding)"...
Gathering of the Vibes dials up the heat and smoke
"Not without his own brief tribute to Jerry Garcia, Costello's version of "It Must Have Been the Roses," was another highpoint of the show --
The Gathering Of The Vibes
Connecticut Post: Sean Spillane: 23rd July, 2011"Costello, in his encore, performed the title track from his album “Sulphur to Sugarcane,” which namechecks Bridgeport, although it’s not certain if he’s talking about the host city of the Vibes.Anyway, the lyrics say, “Down...
Costello spins gold at Wolfe Auditorium show
"The first spin of the wheel yielded “This Wheel’s On Fire.” Then came “I Want You,” “Joanna,” “Episode of Blonde,” “Bedlam” and “Girl"....
"Elvis Costello's Jackpot Hits"
"Costello's mastery of lyrics, melodies, and arrangements were on full display all night.
Revolver Fires Up Again In Charlotte
Charlotte Observer: Courtney Devores: 17th July, 2011"He appeared solo to begin a quieter, rootsier run of songs that included “Sulphur to Sugarcane” then encored looking fittingly `70s movie thug in a shiny copper leather jacket and leopard print hat for “Watching the Detectives.”...
Costello delivers classics, inventive flair to locals
"Costello definitely gave the audience, estimated at 1,500, its money's worth, showing them that a rock concert doesn't simply have to be a series of songs performed live."
Elvis Costello's Spectacular Spinning Songbook Rolls On Into July
Following boffo business at the box office, popular demand and press acclaim, Elvis Costello and the Imposters will be bringing the Spectacular Spinning Songbook to most of their dates during July. 7/16 Belk Theater-Charlotte, NC7/18 N. Charleston PAC-N. Charleston, SC7/19 Wolfe Auditorium-Asheville,...
Elvis Costello & The Imposters Keep Songbook Spinning With New Fall Tour Dates
Elvis Costello and the Imposters today answer the call of unanimously cheering audiences and critics from coast to coast, announcing a further extension of the massively successful Spinning Songbook tour with a string of fall dates in the Eastern U.S., on sale July 15.
"The Spectacular Spinning Songbook - The Results"
Elvis Costello & The ImpostersSt. LouisJuly 1st , 2011 Overture - featuring the former Mother Superior of Our Lady of Perpetual Torment,...
Elvis Costello in a gem of a show at the Pageant
Costello interpolated songs like Sonny Boy Williamson's "Help Me," and Them's "I Can Only Give You Everything" into his own tunes, creating something new along the way.
"He Worked The Room Of Teenagers To 60-Year-Olds Like A Master Of Ceremonies"
3 Minute Record: July 2nd, 2011Before calling for song three, shouts and applause rose from the audience as out from the shadows walked Eddie Vedder to the stage! In town for his date at the Fabulous Fox Theatre the same night, Vedder helped Costello belt a raucous version of The Who classic “Substitute.”...
"Pat Sajak Impersonations And A Little Sexy Swiveling?"
Riverfront Times: Christian Schaeffer: July 2nd, 2011"As Costello and his crew left the stage, drummer Pete Thomas gave an errant spin of the wheel as the house lights came on. It landed on "I Want You," almost certainly Costello's darkest song of violent lust and barely contained sexual...
"We certainly understand the logic of only allowing pretty girls to get up there"
The Larryville Chronicles: July 1st, 2011"I especially dug the second-encore jamboree with the Southern sisters from the opening act, who added some sweet pedal steel to 'Sulphur to Sugarcane' with Costello vamping it up to lyrics like 'I gave up married women cause I heard it was a sin / Now...
"Minus The Pickle Juice"
ReviewSTL: Allison: July 1st, 2011"He selected a preteen who excitedly danced her way onto the stage and spun “Bedlam” as the next song. She jived first in an on-stage lounge and later in the go-go dancer’s cage as the band performed a version that had been slightly slowed down...
Spinning Wheel, Elvis Keeps On Turning
At one point, he just took over and, without explanation, offered a medley of the Band's jubilant rocker "This Wheel's on Fire" and the smoldering blues "The River in Reverse."
"Perhaps he was just being a joker all along"
City Pages: Jeff Gage: 30th June 2011The first member of the audience who got to spin the big wheel sitting on stage at the State last night was a woman named Heidi. She ran up on stage, squealing with delight, and gave Elvis Costello an enormous hug. "My friend and I have been following you for...
"The Last Five Minutes On Earth"
StarTribune: Jon Bream: June 30th, 2011Costello had fun with whomever came onstage to spin his rock roulette wheel. There were two women, best friends since high school who had been listening to Elvis for 30 years; a young woman and her grandmother; a series of married couples, etc. and hurled some...
"The Spinning State"
The Journal: Jeremy Zoss: 30th June, 2011With each spin of the wheel, Costello and the band launched into a veritable mini-concert. Each bite-sized set was accompanied by its own theatrics, such as a caged go-go dancer with boundless energy, Costello singing in the aisles and remixed versions of some...
"Funnest Show On Earth!"
Torontoist: Jim Kelley: 25th June, 2011"Costello brings the night to a subdued and dignified close with “I Hope,” a bonus track from the Japanese pressing of his latest, National Ransom. A crowd-pleasing two hours and 40 minutes after it began, the Spectacular Spinning Songbook...
"Steve Nieve Is Completely Well"
"We are pleased to announce that Steve Nieve is completely well, having experienced a severe muscle spasm during the Spectacular Spinning Songbook show in Grand Rapids, Michigan. The episode forced Mr. Nieve from the stage after two stellar piano performances of the songs "Black Sails In The...
"Wah-Wah"
Buffalo News: Jeff Miers: 26th June, 2011"During a brisk-tempoed take on “Turpentine,” keyboardist Nieve played theremin, and set the stage for a lengthy guitar solo from Costello, who seemed to be fully partaking of the pleasures afforded by an abused wah-wah pedal. He blew another...
Step right up, folks, for the amazing Elvis Costello
The Globe And Mail: Brad Wheeler: 24th June, 2011To a theatre full of people who adored him, Elvis Costello reflected their good taste and justified their fandom. The big, illuminated and colourful wheel that dominated stage right was the Spectacular Spinning Songbook, a gaudy gyrating résumé...
Costello provides his own thunder at rain-soaked Jazz Festival
Ottawa Citizen: Lynn Saxberg: 24th June, 2011Ottawa — Singer-songwriter Elvis Costello bounded on to the stage of the TD Ottawa International Jazz Festival and lit into what was probably the most rocking concert ever witnessed at the venerable festival.Instead of relying on a wheel-driven game...
"Costello & Imposters Spin Real Fun Show"
canoe.ca: Jane Stevenson: 24th June, 2011"Whether he realizes it or not, he is cool, talented, charming and often quite sexy, whether he’s crooning a ballad or rocking out intensely." Read More......
Back by Popular Demand, Elvis Costello and the Imposters Return to NYC/NJ
Three New Spectacular Spinning Songbook Shows Added, More Anticipated.Elvis Costello and the Imposters announced additional dates featuring the Spectacular Spinning Songbook, with three new tri-state area shows this fall, on sale Friday, June 24. The shows include Costello's re-scheduled May 18 performance,...
Elvis Costello takes fans for a songbook spin in Royal Oak
The Oakland Press: Gary Graff: 21st June, 2011Highlights included an emotive "I Want You," "Doll Revolution," "So Like Candy" (one of several songs Costello's co-written with Paul McCartney), "New Lace Sleeves" and "Pills and Soap." During one of the...
"A Writer Speaks"
The Writing Life: Katey Schultz: 22nd June, 2011"The band played for about two hours, effectively nonstop. For the last 40 minutes, 80% of the audience was on their feet, with perhaps 100 folks slammed up against the edge of the stage, bouncing and twitching to the beats""Sitting their...
"Men Knock Upon My Door In Odd And Even Numbers But None Of Them As Wild As I Discovered In Columbus"
My Favorite Songs Of All Time - Elvis Costello "Relationship Status: Uncomplicated" Colin Gawel.com: JUNE 21, 2011Among the many, many reasons I love rock n roll so much is that infidelity is strongly encouraged and is in fact essential to maintain a healthy bond. Sure, I may be in a committed...
Wheel Spins A Memorable Evening
The Columbus Dispatch: Gary Budzak: 20th June, 2011"There were women dancing throughout the show in the go-go cage, and Costello himself even did a stint in it, and it reminded one of something out of Austin Powers or Laugh-In and worked as a gilded bird cage - at one point, Costello sang And Your...
"One of the best shows I have ever seen"
Rochester City Newspaper: Frank De Blase: 18th June, 2011"After spinning the wheel guests were invited to sit in the mondo cool lounge and sip something blue in fancy stemware or dance in the go-go cage. This included one young lady --- I'm guessing about 14 years old --- that had some moves that...
"From Our Cheese And Poetry Correspondent"
Democrat And Chronicle: Jeff Spevak: 18th June 2011"Today's jazz haikuIn rock, and life too,the wheel is a funny gameloaded with jokers"Read More...... The People Of Rochester Speak......Read More.
Talented Costello Keeps Crowd Thrilled
Pittsburgh Tribune: Rege Behe: June 17th, 2011The wheel landed on some rare gems, notably "Silky Girl" and "Party Girl."All of the audience participants were female -- including an adorable 11-year-old named Lily -- save one guy named Jack from Cleveland who was greeted with a round...
Elvis Costello's Spinning Songbook is a win-win
Pittsburgh Post-Gazette: Scott Mervis: 17th June, 2011Then, Elvis ran off, changed and returned in the guise of game-show host Napoleon Dynamite, promising "songs about love, songs about sex, songs about death, and dancing, but not necessarily in that order." The first spin, in the rain, from...
"I Wouldn't Talk Down To You"
Even despite the gold lame jacket he sported at the end of the night, Costello can only delve so far into gaudy tastelessness -- the songs are just too good to go there. The wheel brought up "King's Ransom", which led to the country soul of "Indoor Fireworks" and the dry wit of "Brilliant...
Elvis Costello's Spectacular Spinning Songbook Rolls On Into June And July Dates
Following boffo business at the box office, popular demand and press acclaim, Elvis Costello and the Imposters announced today that they will be bringing the Spectacular Spinning Songbook to most of their dates during June and July. 6/15 Wolf Trap-Vienna, VA6/16 Trib Total Media Amphitheatre-Pittsburgh,...
Elvis Costello Sings With Grover And All The Gang
The Wall Street Journal: Marshall Heyman: 3rd June 2011One of the things that's frustrating about going to a fund-raiser at Cipriani 42nd Street is that, sitting through speeches and waiting for dinner to be served, you could eat a lot of breadsticks. The perfectly salty Cipriani carbohydrates are usually...
Napoleon Remembers...
My many years in showbusiness have taught me that the audience is actually a group of individuals who - though deserving of respect and any even affection – may be transformed into an angry beast in the frenzy of the night. I take the precaution of keeping a whip and chair close at hand, at all...
Elvis Costello's Wheel Of Fortune
Rolling Stone : David Fricke: May 25th 2011Elvis Costello came out of the gate on May 24th – the last night of a three-show run at New York's Beacon Theater and the final date of his "Revolver Tour" – like he was playing the concert in reverse. The singer-guitarist and his Imposters...
Elvis Costello Invites ?Uestlove To Jam Onstage
Female First: 26th May 2011Hip-hop star AHMIR '?UESTLOVE' THOMPSON enjoyed an impromptu jam session with Elvis Costello on Tuesday (24 May 11) when the veteran rocker invited THE ROOTS drummer to join him onstage in New York.Costello was performing with his band, The Imposters, on the last of three dates...
Elvis Costello Helps West Hartford Man Propose to Girlfriend on Stage
Hartford Courant: Eric R.Danton Well that's a bold thing: West Hartford resident Mike Youmans proposed to his girlfriend, Hilory Wagner of Glastonbury last Friday on stage at an Elvis Costello concert in Boston.Costello's set lists this tour are determined by fans spinning a wheel of fortune marked with...
"Flutter And Wow"
nj.com: Tris McCall: 24th May 2011 When Costello allowed the Spinning Songbook to take its own course, its choices proved inspired. "Black and White World," a track from the soul-rock album "Get Happy!!," gave him an excuse to show off his sensitivity on the sonorous low strings of...
"Songs About Love, Death And Dancing - Though Not Necessarily In That Order."
Boston Globe: Jonathan Perry: May 23rd 2011.When a songwriter like Elvis Costello takes as many risks, twists, and turns as he does — collaborating with Allen Toussaint and Tony Bennett; writing for Johnny Cash and teaming with Paul McCartney — there’s only one thing left to do: Expect...
Fans Hit The Jackpot
Boston Herald: Jed Gottlied: May 22nd 2011Elvis Costello & the Imposters began Friday’s packed Citi Wang Theatre gig sprinting through five songs in 16 quick minutes. One of them, “Uncomplicated,” even crammed in three (admittedly clipped) guitar solos.That was just the beginning....
A Terrifically Entertaining Two-Hour Show At The Tower Theatre.
philly.com: Dan DeLucaThe terms fun and Elvis Costello don't necessarily go hand in hand. But on Thursday night, they got up to dance together in a go-go cage during a terrifically entertaining two-hour show at the Tower Theatre.Costello, ably backed by the Imposters, the crack three-man...
Biblecode Sundays Fire "Revolver" In Boston
Boston Herald: Jed Gottlied: May 22nd 2011Costello doctored a spin to land on “Napoleon Solo,” did “A Slow Drag With Josephine” on his own then brought out brother Ronan MacManus and band for a pair of duets. Read More.....
"I Like Cake"
Brown Cat BakeryElvis walked off after those two songs, changed into a gold jacket, and came back with the guys for another set. No one spun the wheel. They just played song after song, after song. Then it was over (pouty face.)I just bought a ticket to see Elvis at the Wolf Trap on June 15th. Woohoo!Read...
"MISTER NAPOLEON SAYS "SEE YOU AT THE TOWER"
The Revolver Tour Resumes At The Tower Theatre at 8pm, Tonight, Thursday the 19th of May.
"Viva Las Vegas"
Essential Junk: Returning to stage later in the night, and always the showman, Costello lamented the missing spinning wheel but joked there’s an app for that. On cue, an i-Pad appeared on stage with a camera trained on its screen as his attractive assistant brought a medley of women on stage to...
Cincinnati Fatback
I doubt any woman could satisfy me sexually to the degree that the Costello show satisfied me as a music fan. He played for two and a half hours and did three encores. He covered Nick Lowe, The Beatles, The Rolling Stones AND The Who. He played at least one song from nearly every single one of the albums...
"Way cooler than Kravitz..."
At one point, Costello went out into the crowd with a wireless mic and we lost site of him but were still impressed. I've seen a few artists go out into the crowd, most memorably Lenny Kravitz, and I always think it's a cool move. Well, cooler than Kravitz going into the crowd (did I mention he wasn't...
The Revolver At The Taft
Walter Tunis: The Musical Box. We always knew there was something of the carnival barker in Elvis Costello. He may forever be viewed as a champion songsmith that has continually taken huge stylistic risks with his music over the past 35 years. But last night at the Taft Theatre in Cincinnati, he left...
"They Can't Take The Competition"
Las Vegas Weekly: Spencer Patterson “(I Don’t Want to Go to) Chelsea” started intensely, only to devolve into a faux-funk jam session more appropriate for Phishheads than an overwhelmingly older Pearl crowd.Costello ultimately did produce a wheel … on an iPad screen atop a music...
Elvis Costello's wheel of fortunate songs makes for thrilling show
Chicago Tribune: Bob Gendron: May 16th 2011Add tacky game-show host to the list of Elvis Costello's myriad guises. It's just one of the roles he played Sunday at a nearly sold-out Chicago Theatre, where a giant revolving wheel and audience interaction guided a marathon 140-minute concert loaded with...
Los Angeles Times: Elvis Costello at the Wiltern Theatre.
Randy Lewis: May 12th 2011Long before the word “interactive” became an entertainment-industry mantra, Elvis Costello was there with his fabled "Spinning Songbook."A quarter century after he first cooked up the idea that exponentially amped up the practice of taking requests from...
Elvis Costello spins an epic at the Wiltern
The Orange County RegisterBen Wener: May 12th 2011Out of 20-some shows in 20-some years of encountering Elvis Costello live, from suddenly announced club gigs to lavish evenings with Burt Bacharach, I’ve probably seen two or three consistently stronger performances than the one he and his first-rate...
The People Speak Again
As a special feature of this tour, Elvis had listed a bunch of his songs on the Spectacular Spinning Songbook and was inviting selected members of the audience up to the stage to give it a spin. The song that the wheel landed on would be the song that the band would play. I would've...
"A Vaudevillian Writes"
This was actually my first time seeing Costello live (in-person that is). I’m perhaps what you might call a “casual fan” of sorts. My wife certainly has a deeper understanding of the catalog than I do. However, that didn’t stop me from having a great time. ...
"The Revolver Tour" Receives Ten Standing Ovations In Oakland, Sells Out In Los Angeles"
"The Revolver Tour" receives ten standing ovations in Oakland.
"I Wish I Was In New Orleans"
Consequence Of SoundPaul de Revere on May 7th It’s impossible to talk about New Orleans and its music (and broader culture) without talking about the city’s recent strife. Period. So forgive me, apolitical readers, and political ones who flinch at the possibility of bring preached to.It goes...
Dylan delivers, Elvis excels at Bluesfest
Two performing legends proved they can still tell the musical stories their generations of fans want to hear last night.Bob Dylan and Elvis Costello both delivered powerhouse shows at the Byron Bay Bluesfest proving their advancing years had in no way diminished their extraordinary abilities.Dylan, nearing...
Sydney Morning Herald: Elvis Costello and the Imposters at the State Theatre
The start was breathless, four songs banging up against each other like late running commuters impatient at the turnstiles: coming through, coming through, make way. I Hope You’re Happy Now noisy and rollicking, Tear Off Your Own Head busy and sneakily poptastic, High Fidelity brisk soul dancing...
Elvis Costello seasoned to taste
Slick and sharp as ever, Elvis Costello showed his State Theatre audience that at 56 he may be seasoned but to just about everyone’s taste.In a 90-minute set that ranged over four decades of his cleverly crafted material, Costello and his band The Imposters moved seamlessly from crowd favourites...
Elvis Costello Plays Three Shows In NYC For April Fools Day ... Again, Joins Strokes...
Back in 1979 Elvis Costello & The Attractions celebrated April Fools’ Day by playing a total of three shows in New York City. Thirty-two years later, Costello has duplicated the feat in spectacular fashion.<iframe title="YouTube video player" width="350" height="300"...
"My dog he turned to me and he said..."
Elvis Costello Joins Furthur for Band’s Final New York Blowout.He fronts the band on classics like 'Tennessee Jed' and 'Friend of the DevilRolling Stone : By Patrick Doyle March 28, 2011When Furthur hit the stage for their third consecutive headlining showat Radio City Music Hall last night (and...
Elvis Costello - Hong Kong Cultural Centre
South China Morning Post Elvis lives. In a remarkable solo performance in the Cultural Centre last night, Elvis - Elvis Costello that is - showed his songs are just as sharp, his lyrics as biting and his voice as powerful as they were when the British singer-songwriter burst onto the scene as the angry...
Christmas with Elvis Costello: killing, cold, and a great catalog
Christmas with Elvis Costello: killing, cold, and a great catalogChicago Sun Times: Mark Guarino: 22.12.10 Christmas with Elvis Costello evidently does not include chestnuts roasting, sleigh bells ringing or children singing while dressed as Eskimos. Monday night at the Chicago Theatre, he paid...
The Bridge School Benefit Concert 2010
Rolling Stone: Costello brought out Emmylou Harris for his entire set, beginning with a lovely duet on Neil Young’s “Tell Me Why.” They also song the Everly Brothers song “Love Hurts,” which Harris performed with Gram Parsons shortly before his death. Pegi Young...
Cactus Festival, Belgium- Rock'n'Roll in 1921
Rock’n’roll in 1921
Saturday, 9.45 pm
Despite the persistent rain falling by the bucketful, no one could wipe the blissful grins from our faces. And the reason for our joy? Elvis Costello. He chose to wear a silly, white boater, assembled a band of superb guns-for-hire (with guitarist Jim Lauderdale...
Royal Concert Hall, Glasgow
Scotsman.com: Fiona Shepherd: 06.07.10
Judging by the modest attendance at this show, Elvis Costello's current country-fuelled incarnation appears to have flown under the radar. To date, his cover of George Jones's Good Year For The Roses remains his best known foray into maudlin country, but his...
Elvis Costello and the Sugarcanes, Royal Concert Hall, Glasgow
Herald Scotland: Keith Bruce: 05.07.10
Confounding our expectations and surprising us at every turn, Elvis was back in the building with a whole new company of musicians and yet another radical revision of his back catalogue.
Actually, it was more than that. Not only does Costello bring a fresh...
A strange combination of Willie Nelson, George Formby and, of course, most of all himself!
Diesel Therapy: 01.07.10
… saw Elvis Costello at the Sage last night. The band were fabulous: Jerry Douglas (dobro), Stuart Duncan (fiddle), etc. As a non Elvis fan I was amazed at his talent. Great songs, witty delivery and what a voice. When he hits the high notes … You can’t ignore his wonderful...
Elvis Costello at Vicar Street, Dublin
Vanessa Monaghan: GoldenPlec.Com
There always seems to be one or two artists that you say ‘I wouldn’t mind seeing them’ but never get round to, Elvis Costello was one but I was still unsure what to expect.
Upon entering the venue the first thing I notice is that the audience seems to be more...
Old pros with a great line in nostalgia
The Irish Times: 03.07.10
"Old pros with a great line in nostalgia" - For some years we have stopped believing that he is the best thing since the invention of the wheel – his last truly brilliant album, in our opinion, was 2003’s North – but it would be a foolish person indeed to bet against...
Elvis Costello Live At The Sage, Gateshead, "Gig Of The Year, No Contest"
The Shields Gazette: Terry Kelly: 02.07.10
The other Elvis launched last night's brilliant musical cocktail with a Sun Records classic by The King.
Looking dapper in grey suit and tie, with a white hat perched on his head, Costello shouted "How are you?" to his Tyneside fans before tearing into Mystery...
Live at Vicar St
Irish Independent: 03.07.10
This organic, often languid, sound works well with expressive vocals of the Liverpool-raised singer of Irish stock.
Glorious
As expected, there's a strong emphasis on the newer material; although, in truth, the low-tempo pace soon tries the patience. Luckily, a stunning...
Triumphant Liverpool return for maestro
Catherine Jones: Liverpool Echo: 29.06.10
TWO years ago he made a Capital of Culture appearance in this very hall alongside the RLPO.
But this time Elvis Costello was the main attraction in a return visit to the city that, if it didn’t actually breed him, certainly raised the teenage music maker.
And...
Fantastic concert at Liverpool Philharmonic Hall
Laura Davis: Liverpool Daily Post: 29.06.10
Costello was a man of few words but considerable wit , making light of England’s defeat in Sunday’s World Cup match – "Wayne Rooney? More like Mickey Rooney" – though he had been performing with Paul McCartney in Hyde Park at the time of the game.
But...
Elvis Costello: The New Theatre, Oxford
Reg Little: The Oxford Times: 28.06.10
his plan to play a solo show or it was going to be quite a night. Two hours later we had our answer as Elvis left the building, acoustic guitar held aloft, his suit still unbuttoned. A set that had begun with a no-nonsense Red Shoes, from his debut album, ended...
St David's Hall, Cardiff: Dynamic and Masterful
Kate Clarke:
This being a solo tour I was half expecting Costello to lean on his gentler bluegrass numbers, but he has so many in built effects and settings on his voice he has no problem summoning up the drama and dynamics needed for his all-angels-and-edges rock, even without a band. So we got it...
Elvis Costello, St David's Hall, Cardiff
David Owens: South Wales Echo: 26.06.10
TWO musical greats hit Cardiff this week playing vastly different venues, yet both eagerly awaited by fans to whom both have acquired a somewhat god-like status.
Pre-empting McCartney at the Millennium Stadium this evening, the equally talented and highly...
Interview with the South Wales Evening Post
Kate Clarke: South Wales Evening Post: 24.06.10
YOU might call Elvis Costello the ultimate magpie. He made venomous, tongue-twisting rock his calling card, before easing into sophisticated modern standards, smouldering through neglected R'n'B gems, teaming up with 1960s Bossa-pop maestro Burt Bacharach...
"Like a child whose lollipop has plummeted down a ravine"
Ben Walsh: The Independent 23.06.10
"I've been wading through all this unbelievable junk/ And wondering if I should have given the world to the monkeys," he spits out with relish on "God's Comic" in this blistering solo set. It's about time we reclaimed our very own Elvis, and thanks to Richard Thompson's...
Elvis Costello at the Royal Festival Hall
Tim Adams: The Guardian: 21.06.10
As Father's Day gifts go, it would be hard to imagine a better present than the one offered by Elvis Costello to his dad: the perfect concert at the Festival Hall. Elvis dedicated his second number Veronica (the song about his paternal grandmother that he wrote with...
Elvis Costello finds his inner Hillbilly
From the Atlanta Journal-Constitution
April 27, 2010, by Suzanne Van Atten
"Working their way through selections from Costello’s most recent “Sacred, Profane, and Sugarcane” album and interspersing numerous unique covers, the band shined brightest in the jaw-dropping redone versions of Costello’s...
Elvis Lives (Costello that is)
San Diego Union Tribune
April 12, 2010, by George Varga
"There were so many remarkable musical moments during Elvis Costello's superb solo concert last night at downtown's Balboa Theater that it's difficult to rate one above another...
...The new material he debuted, including the as yet unrecorded...