King of America

by

Elvis Costello

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In many ways, KING OF AMERICA could be considered a "solo" album. After pounding out a frenetic string of classics since his debut, doubtful cracks began to appear on the slick surface of PUNCH THE CLOCK. But after the crash & burn of GOODBYE CRUEL WORLD, it seems Costello wisely stepped back from the wreckage, stripping it all down to a room with a view on the precipice. In doing so, he also gave his band a much needed & unexpected vacation.

Though they play on "Suit Of Lights", The Attractions basically sat this one out. Suffice it to say, they were less than thrilled to be blown off in favor of legends like James Burton & Ray Brown. No surprise then, that next to ALMOST BLUE (& now DELIVERY MAN) this is Costello's most Country influenced album. A risky proposition in the mid 80's.

"Indoor Fireworks" & "Poisoned Rose" rank up there with "Almost Blue" as some of his finest torch songs. The bleak majesty of "Little Palaces" is easily the most political song on the album, while all kid gloves come off in the scathing "Suit Of Lights". The role of King OF Fools is wryly embraced on "I'll Wear It Proudly", but all the ego bashing comes to a fore with "Jack Of All Parades". The final curtain falls with "Sleep Of The Just".

Though, I'd say "Glitter Gulch" & "American Without Tears" haven't gone down as two of Cotello's most requested numbers, gems like "Brilliant Mistake" & "Lovable" make up for it. I suppose Costello sums it up best in "Our Little Angel"---"this is the place where I made my best mistakes".

In terms of the two covers on here,"Eisenhower Blues" lets his guests blow off some much needed steam. Call it filler but its good, raucous fun. The same could be said of his take on The Animals classic,"Don't Let Me Be Misunderstood". A haunting arrangement delivered with a death rattle rasp that can't help but bring Tom Waits to mind.

Of course, the real clincher for fans is the bonus disc. "Having It All", "Suffering Face" & "Deportee" capture Costello at his most maudlin. Also notable is the gem "King Of Confidence" which could have only improved the original album. His covers of "Ture Love Ways" & "End Of The Rainbow" seem tailor made. As for the live cuts, "Tears Me Up" has all the passion missing from CRUEL WORLD. If SPIKE'S "Tramp The Dirt Down" were an outtake from PUNCH THE CLOCK, it would sound an awful lot like "Betrayal".

Once again, Rhino & Mr. Costello have given you the royal treatment. Love it or hate it, KING marked a decided sea change in Costello's career. An album that remains unique & among his best.