Elvis Costello

This is a very interesting book, and particularly in those chapters in which Elvis Costello discusses, at some length, his musical forebears, to wit , his father and grandfather, but also the gloriously catholic assortment of musicians with whom he has collaborated. I was especially interested to hear (which probably says something about the way my hamster wheel of a mind operates) that the reference to the Quisling Clinic in "Green Shirt" does indeed refer to the former medical offices in my hometown of Madison, Wisconsin, which he saw when he played Bunky's in 1976 and stayed at the Edgewater Hotel. As Mr. Costello points out, the name "Quisling" has a different connotation for a northern European of his age, that of Vikdun Quisling, the Norwegian Nazi collaborator; indeed, the word quisling , according to Merriam-Webster's Collegiate Dictionary, 11th Edition , now means "traitor" or "collaborator." I listened to the audiobook, read by Elvis Costello himself, who does a wonderful job of reciting his own engaging prose.… (more)

I'm giving this book 5 stars because it is amazing in its breadth and is insightful AND funny, which is a great combo. I do think it is a little long and I was not happy with the non-chronological organization. But quite simply, Mr. Costello can write. Not that we didn't already know that of course. I found myself laughing out loud at parts of this memoir but also feeling very informed about Elvis' life. Really an enjoyable book. Being reminded of all his great music is another benefit. Now I may go listen to an album to two. If you like his music at all, read this book. Even if you don't, if you are into memoirs then I think you will like this.… (more)