King of America
by Elvis Costello
Released: February 21, 1986
Roots rock, country, folk, R&B, americana
Why This Album Matters
This album matters because its strongest editorial story is: Genre Shift.
The Album
"King of America" is the tenth studio album by the Costello Show featuring the Attractions and the Confederates, released in 1986. It marked a departure from his previous work, showcasing a more stripped-down, rootsy sound with influences from country, folk, and Americana music. The lyrics delve into themes of love, loss, and disillusionment, with Costello delivering heartfelt and emotionally resonant performances.
Inside the Recording
Recorded with American producer T-Bone Burnett and a group of seasoned session musicians known as The Confederates, the album features a raw and intimate production style that allows Costello's songwriting and vocals to take center stage.
Interesting Facts
"King of America" features a diverse range of…
"King of America" features a diverse range of musical styles, from the rollicking rockabilly of "Lovable" and the bluesy swagger of "Don't Let Me Be Misunderstood" to the haunting balladry of "Indoor Fireworks" and the country-tinged melancholy of "Brilliant Mistake." The album also includes several covers, including renditions of classic songs by artists like Johnny Cash and Hank Williams.
It was hailed as a bold artistic statement…
It was hailed as a bold artistic statement and a return to form for Costello after a period of commercial experimentation.
The album's enduring popularity and influence have cemented…
The album's enduring popularity and influence have cemented its status as one of Costello's finest works and a classic of the Americana genre.
Essential Tracks
Brilliant Mistake
"King of America" features a diverse range of musical styles, from the rollicking rockabilly of "Lovable" and the bluesy swagger of "Don't Let Me Be Misunderstood" to the haunting balladry of "Indoor Fireworks" and the country-tinged melancholy of "Brilliant Mistake." The album also includes several covers, including renditions of classic songs by artists like Johnny Cash and Hank Williams.
Lovable
"King of America" features a diverse range of musical styles, from the rollicking rockabilly of "Lovable" and the bluesy swagger of "Don't Let Me Be Misunderstood" to the haunting balladry of "Indoor Fireworks" and the country-tinged melancholy of "Brilliant Mistake." The album also includes several covers, including renditions of classic songs by artists like Johnny Cash and Hank Williams.
Don't Let Me Be Misunderstood
"King of America" features a diverse range of musical styles, from the rollicking rockabilly of "Lovable" and the bluesy swagger of "Don't Let Me Be Misunderstood" to the haunting balladry of "Indoor Fireworks" and the country-tinged melancholy of "Brilliant Mistake." The album also includes several covers, including renditions of classic songs by artists like Johnny Cash and Hank Williams.
Indoor Fireworks
"King of America" features a diverse range of musical styles, from the rollicking rockabilly of "Lovable" and the bluesy swagger of "Don't Let Me Be Misunderstood" to the haunting balladry of "Indoor Fireworks" and the country-tinged melancholy of "Brilliant Mistake." The album also includes several covers, including renditions of classic songs by artists like Johnny Cash and Hank Williams.
Explore the Album
Elvis Costello - King of America
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Reception
Upon its release, "King of America" received widespread critical acclaim, with praise for Costello's songwriting craft and the album's rich musical textures.
The Complete Album Story
"King of America" is the tenth studio album by the Costello Show featuring the Attractions and the Confederates, released in 1986. It marked a departure from his previous work, showcasing a more stripped-down, rootsy sound with influences from country, folk, and Americana music.
Recorded with American producer T-Bone Burnett and a group of seasoned session musicians known as The Confederates, the album features a raw and intimate production style that allows Costello's songwriting and vocals to take center stage. The lyrics delve into themes of love, loss, and disillusionment, with Costello delivering heartfelt and emotionally resonant performances.
"King of America" features a diverse range of musical styles, from the rollicking rockabilly of "Lovable" and the bluesy swagger of "Don't Let Me Be Misunderstood" to the haunting balladry of "Indoor Fireworks" and the country-tinged melancholy of "Brilliant Mistake." The album also includes several covers, including renditions of classic songs by artists like Johnny Cash and Hank Williams.
Upon its release, "King of America" received widespread critical acclaim, with praise for Costello's songwriting craft and the album's rich musical textures. It was hailed as a bold artistic statement and a return to form for Costello after a period of commercial experimentation. The album's enduring popularity and influence have cemented its status as one of Costello's finest works and a classic of the Americana genre.
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