Elvis Costello

Elvis Costello & the Attractions - Full Concert (Countdown) featuring 'Oliver's Army', '(I Don't Want To Go To) Chelsea', 'Accidents Will Happen', 'Watching The Detectives', 'You Belong To Me'

Countdown
Netherlands

• In January 1979, Elvis Costello was experiencing a significant moment in his career, shortly after the release of his critically acclaimed album "This... Read Full Description >

  In January 1979, Elvis Costello was experiencing a significant moment in his career, shortly after the release of his critically acclaimed album "This Year's Model," which debuted in March 1978. At this time, he was performing with his backing band, The Attractions, and their energetic sound was well established. The five-song set featured in the "Countdown" performance includes classic tracks such as "Oliver's Army" and "(I Don't Want To Go To) Chelsea," showcasing Costello's unique blend of punk rock and new wave influences. This live performance not only marks a peak in his creative output but also highlights his growing popularity in Europe, particularly in the Netherlands, which was receptive to his edgy style. Notably, "Watching The Detectives," one of the songs performed, represented a shift towards a more sophisticated songwriting approach, blending reggae and rock elements, and solidified Costello's reputation as a boundary-pushing artist in the music scene of the late 1970s.

Elvis Costello & The Attractions - Performance of 'Oliver's Army' Remastered

• In January 1979, Elvis Costello & The Attractions were firmly established in the pub rock and new wave scenes, having gained significant recognition w... Read Full Description >

  In January 1979, Elvis Costello & The Attractions were firmly established in the pub rock and new wave scenes, having gained significant recognition with their prior album, "This Year's Model," released in March 1978. Following the energetic and critically acclaimed release of "This Year's Model," Costello delivered "Armed Forces" in early 1979, which included the hit single "Oliver's Army." The live performance of "Oliver's Army," recorded in 1979, showcases Costello's knack for catchy hooks and incisive lyrics, qualities that would define his style moving forward. Notably, "Oliver's Army" addressed themes of conflict and personal struggle, reflecting Costello's ability to merge political commentary with accessible pop music. The year 1979 marked a pivotal point in his career, as he began to attract a broader audience, setting the stage for his prolific output in the years that followed.

Elvis Costello Performs 'Lipstick Vogue' at Pinkpop 1979

Pinkpop

Elvis Costello Full Concert at Théâtre de l'Empire, Paris: 'This Year's Girl', 'Lipstick Vogue', 'Detectives', 'Pump It Up', 'You Belong to Me'

Théâtre de l'Empire
Paris, France

• By October 6, 1979, Elvis Costello was firmly establishing himself as a prominent figure in the music scene, especially following the release of his h... Read Full Description >

  By October 6, 1979, Elvis Costello was firmly establishing himself as a prominent figure in the music scene, especially following the release of his highly acclaimed album "This Year's Model" in 1978. This live recording at the Théâtre de l'Empire in Paris occurred shortly after the release of "Armed Forces," which came out in March 1979 and further solidified his reputation for sharp lyrics and catchy melodies. Notably, the concert featured Costello performing with his backing band, The Attractions, highlighting the powerful synergy between them. This period marked a pivotal moment in Costello's career, as he was transitioning from critical darling to a mainstream artist, gaining a reputation not only for his unique sound but also for his energetic live performances. The performance, recorded for the French television program "Chorus," showcases his ability to connect with the audience, a characteristic that would define his enduring legacy.