Liner Notes - Taking Liberties
Since he burst on the music scene in 1977, Elvis Costello has waxed more sides than we've been able to fit onto his first four albums here at Columbia Records. Taking Liberties is a compilation of those tracks - unreleased masters, rare B-sides, English album cuts and collectors items, none of which has appeared on Columbia until now. In this rockin new album, Elvis proves himself the most versatile young singer-entertainer of the day. For here are twenty exciting numbers to be delivered in a score of different, distinctive styles.
Hear the irrepressible Elvis switch abruptly and with amazing skill from the solid rock-n'-roll beat of "(I Don't Want To Go To) Chelsea" to the gentle, touching mood of "My Funny Valentine"; from the low down gutty blues spirit of "Clowntime Is Over" to the earthy, heart-warming throb of "Stranger In the House"; from the easy going, country stroll of "Radio Sweetheart" to the swinging rhythm & blues tempo of "Getting MIghty Crowded."
That's the way it goes through this whole dynamic album - one change of pace after another. Yet never changing is the powerful, unique voice of Elvis Costello. as it dominates an controls every song. And, as always, instrumental backing by the fabulous Attractions adds a fiery vigor to many of Elvis' numbers.
Still in his early 20's, Elvis clearly demonstrates here that his potential and versatility are practically unlimited. He's got a range of talent that's hard to imagine, until you've heard Elvis Costello Taking Liberties.
Gregg Geller