Let’s not get crazy, this Elvis Costello ‘Remix’ has no Elvis Costello in it.. other than remix. That being said lets not discount that Costello is a huge Johnny Cash fan. Honestly, I am as well but not enough to actually buy into his work. When I stumble across it I always like it- but its not enough to load up on.
Deep and raspy lyrics are unnerving and his speak/sing story telling is engulfing. Gets a bit twangy and that’s when I check out. Case in point is the original version of ‘She Used To Love Me Alot”, chock full of slide guitar and pluckin’, with a two step sawdust floor back beat. Not a bad thing- it fits just right- but with the help of Mr Costello, this ’80s rarity gets the thump and momentum of a 2014 anthem.
Anthem? Anthem.
Hell yes. From the cosmic intro to the awesomely heavy bass Costello takes a Western tune and gave it the Eastern spin. Not exactly rave worthy but the signature thumping of the that bassline is absolutely gorgeous. The electronic twiter replaces the twang. The softening of the backup singers also refreshes the tune- taking it from something youd expect in a 1970’s variety show to an easy tune to drop on a bands preset playlist.
The purists will bitch. The new kids will love it. I wouldnt be surprised to see if this thing gets any sort of exposure that it ushers in a new lot of Cash fans- yes its that good, yes Costello got it right.
On first listen I thought I would be disappointed not to have Elvis do back up like that cheeky Nat King Cole duets with the dead bit. Instead I was introduced to a tune that I will happily download. Go figure.
The song will be included on Elvis Costellos forthcoming seven inch due out on March 11th.
Massive pain in the ass to try and share it so try listening to it here.
