Elvis Costello—His Aim Was True
I have been listening to Elvis Costello’s music for over 40 years. His first records came out while I was still in high school. By college, his post-punk angst had become an essential part of the soundtrack of my college years and beyond.
It's interesting to photograph someone I've listened to for so long. I often worry that seeing one of my musical heroes might be disappointing. But it wasn't at all. While his voice wasn’t as strong as it used to be, his passion and love for performing more than compensated for any wear and tear he might be experiencing.
The addition of Charlie Sexton playing guitar in the band was also exciting for me. Sexton has played with some of the musicians I hold very dear, notably Bob Dylan. The highlight of the evening was his acoustic version of “Every Day I Write the Book.” That song, in particular, is one I've listened to hundreds of times. His reworked version shifted from being a danceable tune to one that was overtly heartfelt and expressed a deeper longing by the characters in the song.
The somewhat older audience at the Borgata knew the words to every song and found every opportunity to sing along. By the end of the 90-minute-plus set, everyone was thoroughly satisfied.
Elvis Costello and the Impostors are kicking off the second half of a long tour, performing the early songs of Elvis Costello. It's important to note that he also performs some of his biggest hits. This is a concert worth seeing, and I highly recommend you get out and enjoy.
