Artist: Elvis Costello Album: Kojak Variety

Year: 1995
Duration: 0:0-1

A Critical Review of the Album: Kojak Variety by Elvis Costello

Elvis Costello, also known as the Angry Young Man of the British punk and new wave era, has left an undeniable mark on the music industry with his unapologetic and politically charged music. In 1995, Costello released his album Kojak Variety, which was a significant departure from his usual sound. The album had a mix of covers and original songs, arranged in different genres. In this blog post, we will take a critical review of Kojak Variety and explore its unique features.

The music genre of the album:

Kojak Variety is an eclectic mix of music genres that showcase Elvis Costello's versatility as an artist. The album includes songs ranging from blues, rock, country to soul, and jazz. The album's variety is a significant departure from Costello's punk and new wave roots, and it shows his willingness to experiment and take risks with his music.

The Best Songs of the Album:

The album's standout track is unquestionably Strange, a moody and atmospheric song that is different from Costello's usual sound. Costello's version of the song Strange features stark guitar and vocals that add to the haunting lyrics. Another noteworthy track is Days, which has a jangly rock sound and catchy chorus.

Most Innovative Parts:

One of the most innovative parts of Kojak Variety is the inclusion of covers of songs from different genres, such as Willie Dixon's Down in the Bottom and The Rolling Stones' Too Rude. Costello's covers add a unique spin, and his arrangements make them sound like they were custom-written for him. Another innovative part is the album's sound, which combines both live recordings and studio sessions, adding a raw and spontaneous feel to the tracks.

Critique of the Album:

Critique of the Album:

While Kojak Variety is widely regarded as a departure from Costello's usual sound, some critics were not impressed with the album. Some felt that Costello was trying too hard to be different and experimental and that the songs lacked cohesion. However, others appreciated the album's variety and the risks that Costello took.

In conclusion, Kojak Variety by Elvis Costello is a unique and experimental album that showcases Costello's versatility as an artist. The album's mix of covers and original songs, arranged in different genres, is a significant departure from Costello's usual sound. While the album was not universally loved by critics, its variety and experimentation make it an essential album in Costello's discography. If you're a fan of Elvis Costello or are interested in exploring experimental music, Kojak Variety is a must-listen.