|
Elvis Costello has looked pretty much the same for the span of his 35-year career, but musically the man is a chameleon.
He's a rock 'n' roll legend, yes. A Rock and Roll Hall of Famer too. But he's also shaken up his playbook by delving into classic country, lounge, jazz, classical, pop standards, sparse acoustic roots, blues and opera. He's worked with artists from opposite sides of the musical spectrum — from Paul McCartney and Burt Bacharach to Jenny Lewis and Fall Out Boy. Costello is married to Canadian jazz singer/ pianist Diana Krall.
So who should fans expect on Saturday when Elvis Costello & the Imposters bring the Revolver Tour to Belk Theater?
Costello is shaking up the format of a traditional concert by reviving his Spectacular Spinning Songbook. Reviews report that the 56-year-old rock vet plays carnival barker/game show host between churning out classics, obscurities and covers.
What's the wheel?
The Spectacular Spinning Songbook was originally created for Costello's 1986 tour. It's a wheel featuring song titles spanning Costello's career that audience members spin Wheel of Fortune-style to determine, at least in part, the Imposters' setlist. The wheel makes each night of the tour different.
What's the game?
Several reviewers have compared the kitschy theme to a segment from an Austin Powers movie — with caged go-go dancers and audience members sipping cocktails on stage. There's more to the madcap concert than choosing the set at random, too. In addition to individual songs, the Wheel may land on a favorite Costello theme (girls, time) or pit songs against each other.
Who's in the band?
Keyboardist Steve Nieve and drummer Pete Thomas, both former members of the Attractions, join bassist Davey Faragher as the Imposters.
Does he do covers?
Bob Dylan's fitting "This Wheel's on Fire," Prince's "Purple Rain," and Lennon and McCartney's "Girl" have made the live cut recently.
3 songs I hope to hear
■ "(I Don't Want to Go to) Chelsea" (1978): This is my all-time favorite. I played it for my dog (now dearly departed) when I worked as an overnight deejay. She listened at home: My last three dogs were named after Costello songs: Chelsea, Ally and Veronica.
■ "This Year's Girl" (1978): In her biography, former lover Bebe Buell claims this and many others are about her.
■ "Tear Off Your Own Head (It's a Doll Revolution)" (2002): I love the metaphor and the images it inspires.
| 
