Elvis Costello and Steve Nieve Review – 50 Years of Hits Improved by Age

“We’re treading the boards trod by Houdini, Charlie Chaplin … and Frank Carson and Ken Dodd,” yells Elvis Costello, paying homage to Leeds’ legendary 19th-century music hall, now impressively restored. Between songs, the seasoned performer dipped into the venue’s rich comedic history. He shared anecdotes about the challenges of explaining Blackpool to Americans and reminisced about how, after miming on Top of the Pops, “the BBC didn’t know what I sounded like till Live Aid. Then when they did, they didn’t let me on again.”

Witty and reflective, Costello shared a cheeky story about his late father, Ross MacManus, who revealed to a friend that he learned Spanish in bed despite his wife not speaking a word of it. The audience erupted in laughter, but it was clear that Costello had no plans to abandon his day job. His current project, “15 Songs from 50 Years,” involved performing four sets over two nights, totaling an impressive 60 different songs.

With longtime Attractions bandmate Steve Nieve alternating among piano, keyboard, melodica, and electric accordion, and Costello switching between a collection of guitars ranging in value, the setlist was a journey through time. They visited songs from 1977, like “Mystery Dance,” reimagined as a slow blues number, and even introduced the audience to the theme song from a forthcoming musical, “A Face in the Crowd,” set to debut in 2024. This new tune received as warm a reception as any of the classics.

Having just turned 70, Costello’s voice occasionally showed signs of strain, but it only added to the melancholic and vulnerable rendition of “Country Darkness” from 2004’s album, “The Delivery Man.”

While another hit might have been welcomed, the crowd was treated to intimate and fragile performances of “Almost Blue” and “Man Out of Time.” Costello, strapping on an electric guitar, joined Nieve in singing verses for a timeless rendition of “(What’s So Funny ‘Bout) Peace, Love and Understanding.” The audience enthusiastically belted out the chorus of “A Good Year for the Roses,” adding to the evening’s magic.

As the final notes played, Costello raised his hat and bid the audience farewell, promising, “Until the next time…” His exit was accompanied by the fitting sound of Ken Dodd’s “Happiness,” leaving the crowd with memories of a truly special evening.

Source: The Guardian