Elvis Costello

Elvis Costello and the Attractions - 'The Beat' Live Performance

• In January 1978, during the height of his early career, Elvis Costello and the Attractions were actively promoting their debut album, "My Aim Is True,... Read Full Description >

  In January 1978, during the height of his early career, Elvis Costello and the Attractions were actively promoting their debut album, "My Aim Is True," which had been released in July 1977. The live performance in the recording captures the raw energy of Costello's music and his developing stage presence, reflecting the burgeoning punk and new wave scenes. By this time, Costello was gaining popularity with hits like "Less Than Zero" and "Alison," solidifying his reputation as a significant figure in the music landscape. Interestingly, this period marked a crucial point where Costello was beginning to blend genres, combining elements of rock, punk, and pop, which would define his innovative style in later years. The live recording showcases not only his songwriting prowess but also the powerful synergy with his band, setting the stage for his enduring career.

Elvis Costello - Two Little Hitlers Live at Rockpalast in Germany

Rockpalast
Germany

• In January 1978, Elvis Costello was on the cusp of breaking into mainstream success, having released his debut album, "My Aim Is True," in 1977. By th... Read Full Description >

  In January 1978, Elvis Costello was on the cusp of breaking into mainstream success, having released his debut album, "My Aim Is True," in 1977. By the time of the Rockpalast performance, he had already garnered attention with his unique blend of punk and new wave sound, along with sharp lyrical content. Costello's live recording captures a dynamic period in his career, showcasing his raw energy and captivating stage presence. The song "Two Little Hitlers," which he performed at this concert, appeared on his second album, "This Year's Model," released shortly after the Rockpalast show, in March 1978. This performance is indicative of Costello’s rapid rise and the fervor surrounding his work during this prolific phase, as he began to forge a path as a significant figure in the music scene. The Rockpalast performance further solidified his reputation in Europe, reflecting his artistic vision and the critical acclaim he would continue to receive.

Elvis Costello & the Attractions - Full Concert at Capitol Theatre - Setlist Included

Capitol Theatre
Passaic, NJ, United States

• On May 5, 1978, Elvis Costello and the Attractions performed a notable concert at the Capitol Theatre in Passaic, New Jersey. At this time in his care... Read Full Description >

  On May 5, 1978, Elvis Costello and the Attractions performed a notable concert at the Capitol Theatre in Passaic, New Jersey. At this time in his career, Costello had already released his critically acclaimed debut album, "My Aim Is True," in 1977, which introduced his unique blend of punk, new wave, and pop. The concert came shortly after the release of his second album, "This Year’s Model," which hit the shelves in early March 1978 and featured hits like "Radio, Radio" and "Pump It Up." This live performance captures a pivotal moment in Costello's rise to prominence, showcasing his raw energy and charisma. Notably, the 1978 concert also highlights his prolific songwriting and incisive lyrics, marking the early stages of a career that would see him become one of the most respected and innovative artists in music history. The performance would later be remembered as a significant milestone during the punk and new wave era.

Elvis Costello & The Attractions Live - Full Concert in Cologne (1978)

Cologne

• By June 15, 1978, when this live concert was recorded in Cologne, Elvis Costello was on the rise as a significant figure in the punk and new wave scen... Read Full Description >

  By June 15, 1978, when this live concert was recorded in Cologne, Elvis Costello was on the rise as a significant figure in the punk and new wave scenes. Just a few months prior to this performance, he released his debut album, "My Aim Is True," in 1977, which garnered critical acclaim and helped establish his reputation as a songwriter. Following this first success, Costello released his second album, "This Year's Model," in March 1978, featuring tracks that would go on to be staples in his repertoire, such as "This Year's Girl" and "(I Don't Want to Go to) Chelsea." This concert showcases his energetic blend of rock and punk influences while allowing the audience to experience his sharp, witty lyrics firsthand. Notably, Costello's backing band for this performance, The Attractions, was instrumental in defining his sound, contributing to his growing popularity in both the UK and abroad during this exciting period of his career.

Elvis Costello & The Attractions Live at Rockpalast - 'Pump It Up' Performance

Rockpalast
Germany

• On June 15, 1978, when Elvis Costello & The Attractions performed “Pump It Up” at Rockpalast in Germany, they were in the midst of a pivotal momen... Read Full Description >

  On June 15, 1978, when Elvis Costello & The Attractions performed “Pump It Up” at Rockpalast in Germany, they were in the midst of a pivotal moment in Costello's career. This performance came shortly after the release of his second studio album, *This Year’s Model*, which debuted on March 17, 1978. This album marked the first collaboration with his backing band, The Attractions, and showcased a significant evolution in his sound—melding punk energy with pop sensibilities. The success of *This Year’s Model* helped solidify Costello as a prominent figure in the music scene, and "Pump It Up" became one of his signature songs, known for its catchy riff and urgent lyrics. The Rockpalast performance further increased his visibility in Europe, illustrating both his burgeoning popularity and the dynamic stage presence that would define his career. Costello’s rapid ascent during this period highlighted his unique ability to blend lyrical wit with diverse musical styles.

Elvis Costello and the Attractions - Live Performance of 'No Action' from Rockpalast

Cologne

• On June 15, 1978, during the live recording of "No Action" in Cologne, Germany, Elvis Costello was at a pivotal point in his career. This performance ... Read Full Description >

  On June 15, 1978, during the live recording of "No Action" in Cologne, Germany, Elvis Costello was at a pivotal point in his career. This performance occurred shortly after the release of his acclaimed debut album, "My Aim Is True," which came out in 1977. "No Action," a track from his second album, "This Year’s Model," released in March 1978, showcases Costello's evolving style and his partnership with the Attractions, which marked a significant development in his sound. This era was characterized by his sharp lyrical wit and energetic performances, both of which are evident in the live recording. Notably, Costello's collaboration with the Attractions solidified his role as a prominent figure in the new wave and punk rock scenes, and this performance highlights his dynamic stage presence during a crucial stage of his artistic growth.