THE ELVIS COSTELLO FAQ LIST Version 3.2 January, 1995 Welcome to the Elvis FAQ! Hopefully this document will contain something for all Elvis fans, from diehards to newbies alike. It is still in the early developmental stages, so I would really appreciate your input. Drop me a line at lister@qjet.bu.edu if you spot any errors, can fill in some of the ?'s, or have any suggestions on format, new sections to include, etc. Note: For information about Elvis' recording career, please see the Elvis Costello Discography, an impressive document maintained by Paul Hosken (rmcb@vm.op.dlr.de). The latest version can be obtained from CS.UWP.EDU in the directory "/pub/music/artists/c/costello.elvis". Table of Contents Biographical Details Brief Album Synopsis Elvis' Backing Bands Connections to Other Artists Frequently Asked Questions Books on Elvis Concert Tours Film Appearances Soundtracks TV Appearances Obscure References to Elvis in Films/TV Elvis' Desert Island Choices Elvis' Ten Favourite Things Origins of EC album titles Acknowledgements Biographical Details Given Name: Declan Patrick Aloysius* MacManus (* added by Elvis) Stage Names: The Beloved Entertainer, D. P. Costello, Elvis Costello, The Costello Show, Henry (Howard) Coward, The Emotional Toothpaste, The Imposter, King of America, Little Hands of Concrete, The MacManus Gang, Napoleon Dynamite Born: London, August 25, 1954 Parents: From Merseyside, Liverpool Father: Ross MacManus, musician (trumpeter), formerly sang with the Joe Loss Orchestra Mother: Lillian MacManus, ran record store shop in Selfridges dept. store. Siblings: ? 1st Marriage: 1971? Mary, had son Matthew circa 1974 2nd Marriage: 1985 Cait O'Riordan (Caught oh-REER-dan),former bassist for The Pogues Brief bio. : Born in London, lived in outskirts, went to a secondary modern school in Hounslow, W. London. Moved to Liverpool, left school in 1972, got a job as a computer operator in a cosmetics firm. Played local pubs with group Flip City, disbanded in 1975, made solo acoustic demo tape, sent to various record companies. Given contract by Stiff records, recorded MAIT with U.S. C/W band Clover 1976. (Clover's lead singer was Huey Lewis at the time, but he did not participate in the recording sessions) The Attractions formed through auditions, recorded TYM 1977. Left the Attractions c. 1986 to pursue solo career. Switched to Warner label and recorded Spike (1989), Mighty Like a Rose (1991), and The Juliet Letters (w/ Brodsky Quartet) (1992). Temporarily re-united with the Attractions for the album Brutal Youth (1994) and subsequent tour of N. America and Europe. Brief Album Synopsis (For more detailed info., please see the discography) Jul 1977 - My Aim is True May 1978 - This Year's Model Feb 1979 - Armed Forces Mar 1980 - Get Happy! Oct 1980 - *Taking Liberties Nov 1980 - *Ten Bloody Marys & Ten How's Your Fathers Feb 1981 - Trust Nov 1981 - Almost Blue Jul 1982 - Imperial Bedroom Aug 1983 - Punch The Clock Jul 1984 - Goodbye Cruel World 1985 - +The Best of Elvis Costello Apr 1986 - King of America Oct 1986 - Blood and Chocolate 1987 - *Out of Our Idiot Feb 1989 - Spike 1989 - +Girls, Girls, Girls May 1991 - Mighty Like a Rose Feb 1993 - The Juliet Letters Mar 1994 - Brutal Youth * = Collection of B-sides and out-takes + = contains previously released material Elvis's Backing Bands Flip City Mich Kent - bass, Malcolm Dennis, Ian Powling - Drums, Steve Hazelhurst - guitar, Dickie Faulkner - percussion, Mike Whelan, Ken Smith. Clover (on MAIT) : Alex Call, John McFee - Guitar, Vocal, John Ciambotti - gte/vcb/b/v, Sean Hopper - Keyb, Vocal, Huey Lewis - Harmonica, Vocal (not featured on MAIT), Micky Shine - Drums, Vocal The Attractions : Steve Nieve - keyb, Bruce Thomas - bass, Pete Thomas - drums Afrodiziak (on 'Punch the Clock'): Carol Wheeler, Claudia Fontaine, Naomi Thompson - vocal TKO Horns (on 'Punch the Clock'): Jimmy Paterson - Trombone, Dave Plews - Trumpet , Stuart Robson - Horn, Paul Spear - Tenor Sax, Jeff Blythe - Alto Sax The Dirty Dozen Brass Band (on 'Spike', 'MLAR'): Gregory Davis - trumpet, Efrem Towns - Trumpet, Kevin Harris - Tenor Saxophone, Roger Lewis - Baritone and Soprano Saxophones, Charles Joseph - Trombone, Kirk Joseph - Sousaphone The Confederates : James Burton - guitar, Jerry Scheff - bass The Rude 5 (on 'MLAR') : Larry Knechtel - keyb, Mark Ribot/James Burton-guitar, Pete Thomas/Jim Keltner - drums, Jerry Scheff - bass, Steven Soles - vocals/guitar The Brodsky Quartet (on 'TJL') : Michael Thomas - Violin, Ian Belton - Violin, Paul Cassidy - Viola, Jacqueline Thomas : Violoncello Connections to Other Artists Artists that Elvis has collaborated/worked with ----------------------------------------------- Larry Adler, Chet Baker, Martin Belmont, Tony Bennett, Rueben Blades, The Bluebells, Billy Bremmer, Charles Brown, Carlene Carter, Philip Chevron, The Chieftains, Johnny Cash, Jimmy Cliff, Mary Coughlan, Chris Difford, Dave Edmunds, The Eurythmics, Georgie Fame, Darryl Hall, John Hiatt, Chrissy Hynde, Wendy James, George Jones, Mick Jones, The Kinks, Clive Langer, Nick Lowe, Madness, Paul McCartney, Roger McGuinn, Christy Moore, Cait O'Riordan, Roy Orbison, Sam Phillips, The Pogues, Mark Ribot, Annie Ross, Ricky Scaggs, The Specials, Dusty Springfield, Bruce Springsteen, Squeeze, The Stiff Gang, Rachel Sweet, Benmont Tench, Allen Toussaint, 'Til Tuesday, T-Bone Burnett, David Was, Rob Wasserman, Robert Wyatt Artists that have influenced Elvis ---------------------------------- The Band, The Beatles, Hoagy Carmichael, The Grateful Dead, Bob Dylan, Lowell George, George Jones, Randy Newman, Gram Parsons, John Prine, Brinsley Schwarz, The Rolling Stones, Tom Waits, Hank Williams Other artists often mentioned on the EC mailing list --------------------------------------------------------- Tasmin Archer, Billy Bragg, Aztec Camera, Nick Drake, Joe Jackson, Yoko Ono, Liz Phair, The Replacements, Linda Ronstadt, Richard Thompson, XTC FAQS Resource Questions ------------------ Q. Is there a WWW/Mosaic Elvis Costello page? A. Yes, if you are not reading it already, the URL is http://east.isx.com/~schnitzi/elvis.html Q. Are there any Elvis Fanzines? A. The Elvis Costello Information Service is published six times a year, and contains concert reviews, information regarding new releases, etc. For more information see the Elvis WWW page, or write to Richard Groothuizen, Primulastraat 46, 1441 HC Purmerend, Holland. Q. How do I join the Elvis Costello mailing list? A. Send e-mail to majordomo@rain.org with the words 'subscribe costello-l' in the message body. There is also a digest version available by substituting 'costello-l-digest' for 'costello-l' above. Q. How many people are there on the mailing list? A. For a list of e-mail addresses, send e-mail to majordomo@rain.org with the words 'who costello-l' in the message body. Q. Where are the archives to the Elvis Costello mailing list kept? A. The archives, are available by FTP at CS.UWP.EDU, in the directories "/pub/music/artists/c/costello.elvis", "pub/music/lists/costello" and "pub/music/lyrics/c/costello.elvis". Q. Has anyone on the EC mailing list done a poll of people's favourite EC songs/albums? A. Every few months polls are conducted on the mailing list, the most recent ones being in March, May, and September 1994. The results of the latest one were: Top ten songs: Top Three Albums: Beyond Belief Imperial Bedroom Accidents Will Happen (tie)-| King of America Man Out of Time | Get Happy! New Lace Sleeves | Oliver's Army (tie)-| Riot Act | Watching the Detectives So Like Candy (tie)-| I Want You | New Amsterdam Sulky Girl Elvis Questions --------------- Q. What was EC's first ever official release? A. The 7" single on Stiff Records (BUY 11) "Less Than Zero" b/w "Radio Sweetheart" was EC's debut recording early in 1977. Q. What are Elvis' all-time top selling albums? A. #1: Spike, #2: Mighty Like a Rose Q. I've heard that EC has done 'country' & 'classical' albums, which ones are they, and are they to be recommended? A. 'Almost Blue' is a collection of country/western covers recorded by EC and the Attractions in Nashville. Reactions to this album are largely a matter of taste, but if you can't stand steel pedal guitars I wouldn't recommend it. 'King of America' was also recorded with a c/w flair, and is the favourite Elvis album of many fans. 'The Juliet Letters' features Elvis and the Brodsky Quartet, a well known string quartet in classical musical circles. Again, EC fans either love or hate this album. In any case, it provides an interesting showcase for Elvis' vocal abilities. Q. I'd like to get a couple of 'live import recordings' (bootlegs) by EC, which ones would you recommend? A. For starters the following are good performances in good quality: Aim To Please [CD] - Early Flip City demos. Do The Rhumba [CAS] - Jap TV broadcast from 21-Nov-87. Elvis Goes To Washington & Dave Edmunds & Rockpile Don't [CD] - Stereo FM radio broadcast from '79. One of the best 'early' EC boots. Every Day I Write The Book [CD] - Philadelphia 11/08/84. Nashville And More [CD] - studio demos for _Almost Blue_. Riot Act '83 [CD] - Hammersmith Palace, London, 17-Oct-83. This is Tomorrow [CD] - London concert from BBC tapes Unauthorized Live Vol.1 - burnin'! (from Paul Hosken (rmcb@vm.op.dlr.de)). Q. A number of live tracks have appeared on various b-sides, how come EC has never released a live album (excluding the _El Mocambo_ promo)? A. ? Q. Where did he come up with the pseudonym 'Elvis Costello' A. His great-grandmother's name was Costello, and he started out after Flip City disbanded in 1975 using the name 'D. P. Costello'. After signing with Stiff records, he changed the first name to Elvis, purportedly at Jake Riviera's suggestion. According to EC: 'I thought Elvis was a better name than Jesus, and almost as exclusive'. Q. What was the Bonnie Bramlett incident? A. Elvis back in 1979 made some not-so-politically-correct comments about Ray Charles while drinking with Bonnie Bramlett in the bar of the Holiday Inn-Downtown in Columbus, Ohio. He was later forced to make a public apology at a press conference. Q. What was the story behind Less Than Zero/Radio Radio performance on SNL? A. According to an interview with EC, they were bored and drunk (supposedly, Lorne Michaels wanted the Sex Pistols, but they declined), and decided to pull a "Jimi Hendrix" (Hendrix did a similar thing on Lulu's 1960's BBC show--stopped in the middle of one song and start another). EC later commented that "obviously, it isn't THAT live". Q. Where does he currently reside? A. He lives with his wife Cait near Enniskerry, Ireland. Q. Did he really get his record contract by setting up an amp on the side- walk in front of a record company? A. Elvis got his contract with Stiff Records after he mailed them his demo tape. In order to get an international deal (purportedly at Jake Riveria's suggestion) he later strapped a pignose amp on his back and played in front of a hotel in London where a CBS records international convention was taking place. He was not arrested, but forced to leave by the police. Q. What guitars does he play? A. The list currently includes: - Fender Jazzmaster, with 'Elvis Costello' inlaid on the fretboard - oldish Martin D28 - Gibson J-160E acoustic - Gretch Country Gent - '54 Telecaster (stolen while on tour c. 1984) - Gibson F-5 mandolin - 3 Ferringtons: a small 17" and a normal 25 3/8" both with "Elvis Costello" inlaid on the neck, and a 34" fretless bass (what look like frets are really just inlaid plastic strips) Q. What was EC's first job? A. Computer operator for the Elizabeth Arden cosmetics firm. "[In 1973?] I got a job as a computer operator, which happened to be comparatively well paid: about twenty pounds a week. I'd just put tapes on the machines and feed cards in, line up printing machines - all the manual work the computer itself doesn't have arms to do." (From Elvis Costello Explains Himself, Rolling Stone,9/2/82 by Greil Marcus) Q. When did he first start wearing glasses? A. At the Elizabeth Arden cosmetics firm (the 'vanity factory' in 'I'm Not Angry'), where the computer screens were giving him headaches. He adopted a pair of peardrop-shaped tinted glasses. According to _?_, " There is no reason to suggest that Declan - or Elvis - ever had to wear glasses for optical reasons. Q. Why are some EC tunes credited to MacManus, and others Costello? A. EC changed his name legally back to DPAM, so for international copyright reasons, all songs after KOA are published under DPAM. ('I Hope You're Happy Now' was written in 1984) Q. Why are there so many references to 'Hammersmith' in EC songs? (Crimes of Paris, London's Brilliant Parade, Fish 'n' Chip Paper) A. Possibly because EC's father used to play the Hammersmith Palais in London frequently with the Joe Loss Orchestra. Elvis later himself performed there. Q. What's up with the lyrics to 'Stalin Malone' A. Elvis couldn't get the words to fit the music, so he left the song as an instrumental and printed the words on the back of 'Spike' (not found in cassette version). Q. Who is that saying the words 'Poor Napoleon' in the song of the same name? A. EC's wife, Cait. She also says the words 'In Dusseldorf' in 'Chewing Gum'. Q. When will the "Kojak Varieties" & the Brodsky "Encores" be officially released? A. (The former is a collection of various covers done by EC and the Rude Five, while the latter contains several songs performed live by EC and the Brodskys on their U.S. tour). According to Brett Milano (CD Review Magazine): EC is "none too pleased that it's been bootlegged," and EC himself says: "I don't want to have criminals telling me when to release my records. I'll put it out when the time comes . . . I waited 30 years to sing some of those songs, so I figure I can wait another five to put these versions out." Nor will the Brodsky "Encores" EP be released in the úÿ immediate future. Q. Why was the original name of EC's third album changed from "Emotional Fascism' to 'Armed Forces'? ('EF' appears on the inner sleeve of the UK LP) A. ??? Q. What are 'The Crimes of Paris'? (from the song of the same name, also mentioned in 'Jack of All Parades') A. (From: AMadDogRby@aol.com) I also asked EC about the Crimes of Paris. We can all keep guessing because he doesn't know either- he just liked the phrase. He has searched many guides on the origins of slang and common phrases and has come up empty himself. He doesn't believe The C of P have anything to do with The Illiad or to do with Shakespeare's character Paris. His best assumption is that it derives from a time when the British looked at Paris as a city full of temptations, sin and general debauchery and thus The Crimes of Paris. Q. What is the translation of the Italian dedication in the Brutal Youth CD booklet? A. "I proclaim, I dedicate this absurd scribble and babble to my youthful brute with amazing desire" (from eeihmy@eeiatus01.ericsson.se) Q. Did the Canadian band The Tragically Hip get their name from the line in Elvis' song 'Town Cryer' (found on Imperial Bedroom)? A. No. It apparently was from the (former Monkee) Michael Nesmith video 'Elephant Parts', which predates Imperial Bedroom. Q. Who painted the cover painting of Imperial Bedroom? A. The artist was Barney Bubbles, a popular new wave graphic artist who committed suicide several years ago. He also directed the video for 'Accidents Will Happen'. The credit on the sleeve 'Sal Forlenza, 1942' is false, as EC describes in the IB liner notes how he commissioned Barney to paint the cover in 1981. Q. Did EC paint the cover of B&C under the pseudonym of Eamonn Singer? A. ?? Questions regarding The Attractions ----------------------------------- Q. What are they up to now? A. Steve and Pete are members of the Jonathan Ross Band, while Bruce is living in L.A., writing a book about Bruce Lee. All are currently touring with E.C. Following the tour Steve plans to tour with French pianist Alain Chalfont. Q. What is Steve Nieve's real name? A. Steve Nieve's (pronounced like the word naive) real name is Steve Nason. Q. Are Bruce and Pete Thomas related? A. No. Q. What keyboards does Steve Nieve use on stage? A. A Farfisa and a Vox Continental (among others), both popular organs in the mid-sixties and was all Steve had/could afford at the time. Q. What's the title of the Attractions' solo album, and is it to be recommended? A. 'Mad About the Wrong Boy' was recorded by Bruce, Pete, and Steve in 198_ and is a fine example of early 80's pop. Although the songs are fairly well written, and the instrumental performances are excellent, you quickly become aware of the reason why the Attractions are very rarely featured as singers on EC albums. Q. Who are Brain/Hart? (writers of Sad About Girls and other tracks on the Attractions solo album) A. It has been suggested that it's Steve Nieve (and Faye Hart?). EC calls "Mad About Girls" SN's song in the liner notes for Ryko's Trust. The song is credited to Brain/Hart. SN was sometimes introduced on stage as "Norman Brain", and on the back of the Trust LP (& Ryko CD booklet) SN appears as "Steve Hart". According to the book "Elvis Costello - A Completely False Biography Based On Rumor, Innuendo, and Lies" by Krista Reese (1981) on page 105, it says, Steve Nieve's girlfriend at the time was a lady by the name of Faye Hart. It's written that she had a very abrasive personality and was fond of calling herself, "Farrah Fuck-It Minor". (LeeAnne@aol.com) Ryko Re-issue Questions ----------------------- Q. The jewel-box sprockets on my Ryko re-issues are broken. How do I get replacements? A. Write a letter saying how many replacement cases you need to: Carter, Pickering Wharf, Bldg. C., Salem, MA 01970 Q. What albums are Ryko planning to re-release? A. MAIT, Live at El Mocambo, TYM, AF, GH, T, AB,IB have already been re-released with bonus tracks. A new 'Greatest Hits' compilation (containing no new material) has also been released. PTC and GCW are due out Feb. 21, 1995, and KoA and B&C in Fall 1995. Q. Why aren't all of Elvis' B-sides being released on the Ryko re-issues? A. The re-issues are under Elvis' direct control. He is apparently more concerned about quality in the extended play selections, rather than completeness. Q. Is it worth replacing my old CDs with the new Ryko releases? A. The bonus tracks are obviously a strong enticement, and many people on the list have noticed a marked improvement in sound quality, especially on the earlier albums. Q. Why were the titles of 'Lovers Walk' and 'Man Called Uncle' changed to 'Lover's Walk' and 'Men Called Uncle' on the GH re-issue? A. According to Elvis, the original titles were printed incorrectly, the Ryko versions are the correct ones. Q. Why does "Black Sails in the Sunset" on the ryko re-issue of "Trust" fade out 11 seconds earlier than the "Out of Our Idiot" version? A. According to ICE (International CD Exchange), the Rykodisc reissues originated with Demon, the British label that Costello partially owns, and that Elvis himself oversaw the entire process, so any minor changes merely reflect his wishes." Q. Is my CD defective, or is there a missing beat 23 seconds into "I'm Not Angry" on the Ryko re-issue of "My Aim is True"? A. There is indeed a missing beat, no reply from Ryko yet as to why. Q. What's with the extra track (31) on the Ryko re-issue of "Get Happy!!"? A. Jeff Rougvie, Ryko product manager says: 'The demo version of "Love For Tender" which closes the album is intentionally cut, which is why it is not listed as an extended play track. As I'm sure you've noticed, the album is now 30 tracks long (up from the original 20). When the first song on the disc (albeit a different version) begins again after track 30, it almost heralds the whole album starting again. Mr. Costello thought that this would be humorous, and we agreed.' Books "A Singing Dictionary" Elvis Costello. 1980 Plangent Visions Music Inc. Music scores and lyrics to: MAIT, TYM, AF, GH!!, TL plus "That's What Friends Are For" "Everyday I Write The Song (Grumbling Appendix To The Singing Dictionary)". Elvis Costello. 1983 Plangent Visions Music Ltd. Music scores and lyrics to: T, IB, PTC plus some great photos "Spike" Elvis Costello. 1989. Words and music score to the album. "Brutal Youth" Elvis Costello. 1994. Words and music score to the album. "Elvis Costello: A Man Out Of Time (A Critical Companion To His Lyrics And Music)". David Gouldstone. 1989 Sidgwick & Jackson ISBN 0283997079. The author gives his own personal interpretations of EC's lyrics. Covers through B&C "God's Comic" David Gouldstone. 199_ (Revised Version of EC: A Man Out of Time) Covers through 'Spike' "Written in My Soul" Bill Flanagan. Contains 1986 interview with EC @ King of America, originally published in Musician magazine. "Punk Diary: 1970-1979'. George Gimarc 1994 St. Martin's Publishing. Follows Elvis through his days from Rusty, Flip City to the start of his days with the Attractions and Stiff Records. It's also a good source of info about early releases, demos and rarities. "The Dark Stuff" Nick Kent. Features two interviews with Elvis circa 1978. "Book of Rock Lists" by David Marsh. EC is mentioned many times in various lists. "Ranters & Crowd Pleasers" by Greil Marcus ISBN number 0-385-41720-9. (punk in pop music, 1977-92). Our El is devoted a well-deserved nine chapters, including the "Elvis Costello Repents" article from Rolling Stone, perhaps the last word on the infamous Bonnie Bramlett incident. "The Story of My Life" by Jay McInereny. There are several references to EC in this novel. The main character's name is Alison - the group sings part of Alison to her. She replies with some lines from "Party Girl". Also, one the women shows up with "a member of the EC band" (wvaughan@magnus.acs.ohio-state.edu) "Stiff: The Story Of A Record Label" by Bert Muirhead. Details all Stiff releases 1976-1982. "Elvis Costello: The Illustrated Disco/Biography". Geoff Parkyn. 1984 Omnibus Press ISBN 0711905312. Covers to release of GCW "Strip Jack" authored by Ian Rankin. Published by St. Martin's Press, 1994. $20.95 ISBN 0312105533. St. Martin's specializes in fiction, especially mysteries. This one features an Inspector Rebus of the Glasgow Police Force. Features a character named Aloysius Costello, a university professor. "Elvis Costello: A Completely False Biography Based On Rumour, Innuendo And Lies". Krista Reese 1981 Proteus Publishing ISBN0906071623. Covers through Trust "Elvis Costello: An Illustrated Biography". Mick St.Michael. 1986 Omnibus Press ISBN 0711907722. Covers through GCW and release of Best Of. "The Complete Costello" ed. K.L. Stuart. 1991 Clark MacKent Publishing Co., Palo Alto, CA. This lyric collection that purports to be the complete EC guide for all the songs thru MLAR...Including compilations and European versions. "The Big Wheel". Bruce Thomas. 1990 Viking 0670834432. EC penned the song 'How To Be Dumb' in response to this book by the Attractions' bassist about life on the road with EC & the Attractions. "Going Through the Motions" 1985. Author unknown. Contains set lists from 1977-1985. Available through the Elvis Costello Information Service. Concert Tours (need comments on early tours) 1977: London :openr. John Cooper Clarke 1977: Live Stiffs Tour USA ops: Rockpile, Talking Heads, Tom Petty, Eddie Money 1979: Armed Funk Tour: USA ops: Rubinoos, UK ops: John Cooper Clarke, Richard Hell & the Voidoids 1980: Trust Tour: EC & A, op. Squeeze 1981: Imperial Bedroom Tour :ops. The Plimsouls, Sussman Lawrence 1982: Almost Blue, Almost 1982 Tour: op. Talk Talk 1983: Punch the Clock Tour : EC, Attractions, & TKO Horns; op. Aztec Camera 1984: Goodbye Cruel World Tour : EC & Attractions; ops. Nick Lowe, The Pogues 1986: Napoleon Dynamite/Spinning Songbook Tour : EC & Attractions ,also Bangles,Tom Petty ; featured Elvis with a big wheel with song titles, which he got members of the crowd to spin to select the next song. Huey Lewis was the guest 'host' at a few shows in San Francisco. Last show in L.A. had Tom Waits as the MC (bigstar@io.com) 1987: King of America Tour: EC, op. Nick Lowe. EC played 6 cities in U.S. with the KofA band. 1989: Spike Tour : Nick Lowe, Rude 5 Featured EC solo acoustic. 1991: Mighty Like a Rose Tour : Elvis Costello & the Rude 5; ops. The Replacements, Sam Phillips, The La's Elvis in full beard, baseball cap and sunglasses 1993: Juliet Letters Tour (4 venues only) : EC and the Brodsky Quartet Performed entire album plus eight encores 1994: Brutal Youth Tour : EC & the Attractions; ops. Crash Test Dummies, Difford and Tilbrook of Squeeze, Cast Elvis toured with the Attractions for first time since 1987 Film Appearances Straight to Hell: Elvis has cameo as a waiter, and his song 'A Town Called Big Nothing' is featured on the soundtrack. Cait O'Riordan sings 'Danny Boy' with the Pogues in the film. Americathon : Elvis seen briefly singing on a street corner as 'Earl Manchester'. Sings 'Crawling to the USA' and 'Wednesday Week' on the soundtrack. No Surrender: Elvis plays an incompetent magician in a dilapidated nightclub. Absolute Beginners: EC has cameo appearance at a bar in a black leather jacket. (can anyone verify this?) The Bullshitters: EC plays part of a rock band manager. Music Related Films ------------------- The Juliet Letters: Full length concert video featuring EC and Brodsky Quartet. "Rock for Kampuchea": 1979 benefit concert video featuring various bands at the Hammersmith Odeon, London. Weird Nightmare : Ray Davies of the Kinks and EC worked together on the film Ray made on the life of Charles Mingus, "Weird Nightmare". It is available only on Japanese laser disc. It is a documentary-style film, with quite a lot of commentary from E and some studio work! Soundtracks Americathon - features "Crawling to the USA", "Wednesday Week" Club Paradise - features "Seven Day Weekend" in closing credits The Courier - stars EC's wife, Cait O'Riordan - features 8 instrumentals composed and arranged by EC 'The Family' (BBC series). EC contributed 4 unreleased songs to play over the credits of 4 episodes. Week 1: "Step inside love" (Lennon/McCartney) Week 2: "You`ve got to hide your love away" (Lennon/McCartney) Week 3: "Sticks and Stones" (Titus Turner) Week 4: "Kinder Murder" from BY. GBH (Grievous Bodily Harm) TV Series Soundtrack (All instrumentals) Godfather III - features 'Miracle Man' in scene in Italian villa w/ Andy Garcia and Sofia Coppola Party Party - EC does the title track Scully (British TV show) - "Turning the Town Red" is theme song. Self Catering (made for TV movie) - features "I Can't Stand Up For Falling "Down" and "Pump it Up" Straight To Hell - features 'A Town Called Big Nothing' Until the End of the World - features Elvis cover of 'Days' by the Kinks TV Appearances (Need more info on British/European TV appearances) 197? BBC - Top of the Pops 1978, "Saturday Night Live" Watching the Detectives / Less Than Zero (start) /Radio, Radio 1978,9? - TISWAS : Elvis makes an appearance on this anarchistic children's TV show. 1979 BBC - Top of the Pops Oliver's Army Feb. 4, 1981, "Tomorrow Show with Tom Snyder New Lace Sleeves / Watch Your Step 1981, ITV "The South Bank Show" Documentary on the making of Almost Blue 1983, "Late Night With David Letterman" : Man Out of Time/ Kid About It August 1984, "The Tonight Show (Guest Host Joan Rivers)" : I Hope You're Happy Now / Peace In Our Time - EC changes the last verse of PIOT to 'There's already one spaceman in the White House, why'd you want the same one for' July 13, 1985, "Live Aid" : All You Need is Love (EC had the lyrics written on the back of his hand) 1987 Roy Orbison and Friends - TV Special 198? Chet Baker and Friends - Home Video 1986 or 1987: Guest VJ on MTV 198? BBC series "Scully" - EC appears on one episode as the main character's train-obsessed and simpleton brother. 1989? BBC "Everything You Always Wanted to Know About Spike" Special on making of 'Spike' 1989? Documentary : The Making of "Flowers in the Dirt" 1989? BBC Late Show : Interview + 'Let Him Dangle' and 'Baby Plays Around' March 3, 1989 "Late Night With David Letterman" Pads, Paws, and Claws / Leave My Kitten Alone March 25, 1989 "Saturday Night Live" (Introduction by guest host Mary Tyler Moore : "Elvis Costello's penis is here tonight") Veronica / Let Him Dangle 1991, "Saturday Night Live" - Host: George Wendt The Other Side of Summer / So Like Candy 1991, "MTV Unplugged" (Anyone have the track listing?) 1991 ABC "In Concert" Featured a concert from the MLAR tour with the rude 5 Sept. 1993 PBS : Special on making of 'The Juliet Letters' March 1993, "The Tonight Show With Jay Leno" Jacksons, Monk, and Rowe / Taking My Life In Your Hands April 1, 1994, "Late Night With David Letterman" : 13 Steps Lead Down May 12, 1994, "Late Night With David Letterman" : Kinder Murder June 1994 "MTV Unplugged w/ Tony Bennett" Duet with Tony Bennett - They Can't Take That Away From Me June 12, 1994 Host of MTV's "120 Minutes" Elvis plays some rocking videos from some lesser known groups, also 'Oliver's Army' and 'Sulky Girl' úÿ July 21, 1994 HBO "Larry Sanders Show" Performs '13 Steps Lead Down', Elvis acts in several skits. July 1994 MuchMusic 'Egos and Icons' Interview with Elvis about BY, along with clips of some old videos Oct 29, 1994 BBC1 "The Danny Baker Show" Interview where EC admits his worst song to date was 'Party Party' Nov 18, 1994 BBC2 "The O-zone" "13 Steps Lead Down" Nov 26, 1994 BBC1 "The Danny Baker Show" 'Shipbuilding' / 'London's Brilliant Parade' Obscure Elvis References in TV, Movies, etc. Beastie Boys - latest album features a song with the lyric 'I got more attractions than Elvis Costello' Beavis and Butthead - Title of one episode is "Radio Sweethearts" Beverly Hills 90210 - 'The Other Side of Summer' is featured as background music during one episode Dead at 21 - 'Accidents Will Happen' features as background music as two people are changing a baby "E.T. The Extra-Terrestrial" -- older son sings "Accidents Will Happen" for a few seconds while opening the fridge door (EC still gets royalties for this apparently) Fast Times at Ridgemont High - Jeff Damone has a huge 'Trust' poster on his bedroom wall Jocks - One of the characters asks if he can play some EC in the car. Just One of the Guys - Two women in the movie mention that the lead actress 'dresses like Elvis Costello' Less Than Zero - EC's 'Trust' poster appears prominently in this movie. Melrose Place - Alison Parker's ex-boyfriend sings horrendous version of 'Alison' in one episode. Mystery Date - main character (Nathan Hawke) has a MAIT poster in his room. MST3K - Crow & Gypsy the wise-cracking robots frequently make Elvis references (some of them rather obscure - apparently Jim Mallon (voice of Gypsy) is a big Elvis fan) The Newz - Featured a comedy skit entitled "The Abbott and Costello Show", in which the actors impersonating Bud Abbott and *Elvis* Costello. The Rockford Files - EC mentioned in one episode as an example of modern culture. Satisfaction - Justine Bateman does a version of 'Mystery Dance' on the soundtrack. Saturday Night Live 1994 - Michael McKean (Spinal Tap) does Elvis Costello impersonation in one skit . SCTV - 'Elvis and Costello' skit features players impersonating Elvis Presley and Lou Costello. Short Cuts -- Nightclub singer sings "Punishing Kiss" Singles - a guy meets an old friend who used to be a DJ and talks about how he used to mix 'Peace, Love..' by EC and a Public Enemy song on the radio. Square Pegs - dialogue on one episode mentions EC: 'I mean look at Elvis Costello (reply): Do I have to?' (pearsonp@elwha.evergreen.com) Steven Banks Show - 'Spike' poster on wall of main character's apartment. - woman on show goes to a concert where EC jams with Dylan, Van Morrison, Harrison and others. Taxi - In one episode Latka Gravas (Andy Kaufman), is listening to a record player on headphones while he's fixing a cab. Louie DePalma (Danny DeVito) goes to the record player and drags the needle. Causing Latka to shout "Hey! You just wasted Elvis Costello!" Whose Line is it Anyway - comedian Greg Proops sang out the credits in an Elvis Costello style one episode. Also does a Elvis-esque version of Rudolf the Red Nosed Reindeer WKRP - A 'Trust' poster can be seen on the wall of the radio studio in some episodes Contributors: (mlechner@ozarks.sgcl.lib.mo.us),(haas%sjsuvmi.bitnet@mitva.mit.edu) (selway.j@mail.ei.com),(Choochmon@aol.com),(dorian@apanix.apana.org.au ) (pearsonp@elwha.evergreen.edu), (smallman@cyberspace.com) Elvis' Desert Island Choices (from Eddie Thornley) On Desert Island Discs you get 8 records, a book (as well Bible & Shakespeare) plus a luxury item. Then at the end the castaway can only have one record. I believe he chose his dad's track At Last as the one to keep. RECORDS 1 Beethoven's String Quartet Opus 135 performed by the Brodsky Quartet 2 Frank Sinatra - I've got you under my skin 3 Ross MacManus - At Last (but at least I've *got* this one) 4 Mozart - Marriage of Figaro Act 1, Aria 5 Beatles - You've really got a hold on me 6 Schubert - Bb piano sonata - Brendel 7 Purcell - Dido & Aeneas, Dido's lament - von Otte 8 Duke Ellington Orchestra - Bloodcount (Billy Strayhorn) featuring Johnny Hodges (Alto Sax) BOOK A James Thurber Selection containing: Let your mind alone The greatest man in the world LUXURY An upright piano decorated with an embossed Boticelli Elvis' 10 Favourite Things >From (July 1994 Washington Post article): 1. Ace Ventura Pet Detective "A guilty pleasure...I just laughed myself sick" 2. The Age of Innocence "It's as close to The Magnificent Ambersons as you're going to get these days" 3. The Art Institute of Chicago 4. Goya's A Man Picking Fleas From His little Dog 5. Bikini Kill by Bikini Kill "Their record label is called Kill Rock Stars. We're probably on their list" 6. Martinis and Bikinis by Sam Phillips "I fear it might be like Aimee Mann's record. It might be almost *too* good to get airplay" 7. The memoirs of Hector Berlioz 8. All These Things by the Uniques 9. Duke Ellington's Anatomy of a Murder sountrack 10. Mezzo soprano Anne Sophie von Otter >From an interview with EC on BBC's 'Pop on the line' show, Nov 26, 1994: (DYDT6012@iruccvax.ucc.ie) Favorite EC single - changes all the time, but Watching the Detectives is a favourite as it was his first hit. Favourite early EC album - TYM and Thrust. Favourite classical composer - Schubert. When asked if the Beatles influenced him, Elvis said that Please Please Me and With The Beatles were the first single and album he bought and that he was a member of the Beatles fan club when he was 11. When Elvis first began playing guitar at 13 he played Beatles songs. Origins of EC Album Titles My Aim is True - lyric from "Alison" This Year's Model - variation on lyric from "(I.D.W.T.G.T.) Chelsea", also variation on song title 'This Year's Girl' Armed Forces - probably from 'Oliver's Army', but also general military theme. (Original title for album was 'Emotional Fascism') Get Happy! - Elvis' response to poor reviews of 'Armed Forces' (martin@gate2.cc.unp.ac.za) Trust - perhaps from Squeeze song of the same name (b- side of both 'Is That Love?', and 'Tempted' which were produced by EC.) (Robmy@aol.com) Taking Liberties - line from 'Crawling to the USA' Almost Blue - ? (later became a song title on "Imperial Bedroom") Imperial Bedroom - ? Original title was 'PS I Love You' (EC wrote title song after album was released) Punch the Clock - lyric from "The Greatest Thing" Goodbye Cruel World - Around this time EC got sick of pop star life, things became strained with the Attractions, his first marriage broke up, hence the title. (From Musician magazine, [JerrydB@aol.com]) King of America - first line of "Brilliant Mistake" Blood & Chocolate - first line of "Uncomplicated" Ten Bloody Mary's and Ten How's Your Fathers - ? (Ten songs on each side) Out of our Idiot - ? Girls+ /Girls=$+Girls - ? Spike - Reference to blues musician Spike Jones Mighty Like A Rose - quote in booklet, also line from 'The Other Side of Summer': ('The mightiest rose / the absence of perfume') The Juliet Letters - songs are written in the form of letters to Juliet of Shakespearean fame Brutal Youth - beginning of 2nd verse of "Favourite Hour" Originally contributed by (boojum1660@aol.com) Acknowledgements Thanks to all the people on the EC mailing list, without whom this FAQ would have been impossible to write. Special thanks go to Amy Coppola, Gordon Dymowski, Melinda Hale, Paul Hosken, and Aaron Yarlas for helping to edit early versions of this document. ÿ@FROM :lister@qjet.bu.edu Message-ID: <9501190015.AA06058@qjet.bu.edu> From owner-costello-l@rain.org Sat Jan 21 00:57:49 1995 Received: from coyote.rain.org (coyote.rain.org [198.68.144.2]) by coyote.channel1.com (8.6.9/8.6.4) with SMTP id AAA01803 for ; Sat, 21 Jan 1995 00:57:49 -0500 Received: by coyote.rain.org(4.1/SMI-RAIN) with id AA14413 for eliot.gelwan@channel1.com on Fri, 20 Jan 95 21:41:04 PST Date: Wed, 18 Jan 95 19:15:12 -0500 From: lister@qjet.bu.edu (Matt Lister) Message-Id: <9501190015.AA06058@qjet.bu.edu> To: costello-l@rain.org Subject: Elvis FAQ Version 3.2 Sender: owner-costello-l@mail.rain.org Precedence: bulk Hi everyone, I haven't posted the FAQ for a while, so here is the updated version. Sorry about the length! Matt Lister THE ELVIS COSTELLO FAQ LIST Version 3.2 January, 1995 Welcome to the Elvis FAQ! Hopefully this document will contain something for all Elvis fans, from diehards to newbies alike. It is still in the early developmental stages, so I would really appreciate your input. Drop me a line at lister@qjet.bu.edu if you spot any errors, can fill in some of the ?'s, or have any suggestions on format, new sections to include, etc. Note: For information about Elvis' recording career, please see the Elvis Costello Discography, an impressive document maintained by Paul Hosken (rmcb@vm.op.dlr.de). The latest version can be obtained from CS.UWP.EDU in the directory "/pub/music/artists/c/costello.elvis". Table of Contents Biographical Details Brief Album Synopsis Elvis' Backing Bands Connections to Other Artists Frequently Asked Questions Books on Elvis Concert Tours Film Appearances Soundtracks TV Appearances Obscure References to Elvis in Films/TV Elvis' Desert Island Choices Elvis' Ten Favourite Things Origins of EC album titles Acknowledgements Biographical Details Given Name: Declan Patrick Aloysius* MacManus (* added by Elvis) Stage Names: The Beloved Entertainer, D. P. Costello, Elvis Costello, The Costello Show, Henry (Howard) Coward, The Emotional Toothpaste, The Imposter, King of America, Little Hands of Concrete, The MacManus Gang, Napoleon Dynamite Born: London, August 25, 1954 Parents: From Merseyside, Liverpool Father: Ross MacManus, musician (trumpeter), formerly sang with the Joe Loss Orchestra Mother: Lillian MacManus, ran record store shop in Selfridges dept. store. Siblings: ? 1st Marriage: 1971? Mary, had son Matthew circa 1974 2nd Marriage: 1985 Cait O'Riordan (Caught oh-REER-dan),former bassist for The Pogues Brief bio. : Born in London, lived in outskirts, went to a secondary modern school in Hounslow, W. London. Moved to Liverpool, left school in 1972, got a job as a computer operator in a cosmetics firm. Played local pubs with group Flip City, disbanded in 1975, made solo acoustic demo tape, sent to various record companies. Given contract by Stiff records, recorded MAIT with U.S. C/W band Clover 1976. (Clover's lead singer was Huey Lewis at the time, but he did not participate in the recording sessions) The Attractions formed through auditions, recorded TYM 1977. Left the Attractions c. 1986 to pursue solo career. Switched to Warner label and recorded Spike (1989), Mighty Like a Rose (1991), and The Juliet Letters (w/ Brodsky Quartet) (1992). Temporarily re-united with the Attractions for the album Brutal Youth (1994) and subsequent tour of N. America and Europe. Brief Album Synopsis (For more detailed info., please see the discography) Jul 1977 - My Aim is True May 1978 - This Year's Model Feb 1979 - Armed Forces Mar 1980 - Get Happy! Oct 1980 - *Taking Liberties Nov 1980 - *Ten Bloody Marys & Ten How's Your Fathers Feb 1981 - Trust Nov 1981 - Almost Blue Jul 1982 - Imperial Bedroom Aug 1983 - Punch The Clock Jul 1984 - Goodbye Cruel World 1985 - +The Best of Elvis Costello Apr 1986 - King of America Oct 1986 - Blood and Chocolate 1987 - *Out of Our Idiot Feb 1989 - Spike 1989 - +Girls, Girls, Girls May 1991 - Mighty Like a Rose Feb 1993 - The Juliet Letters Mar 1994 - Brutal Youth * = Collection of B-sides and out-takes + = contains previously released material Elvis's Backing Bands Flip City Mich Kent - bass, Malcolm Dennis, Ian Powling - Drums, Steve Hazelhurst - guitar, Dickie Faulkner - percussion, Mike Whelan, Ken Smith. Clover (on MAIT) : Alex Call, John McFee - Guitar, Vocal, John Ciambotti - gte/vcb/b/v, Sean Hopper - Keyb, Vocal, Huey Lewis - Harmonica, Vocal (not featured on MAIT), Micky Shine - Drums, Vocal The Attractions : Steve Nieve - keyb, Bruce Thomas - bass, Pete Thomas - drums Afrodiziak (on 'Punch the Clock'): Carol Wheeler, Claudia Fontaine, Naomi Thompson - vocal TKO Horns (on 'Punch the Clock'): Jimmy Paterson - Trombone, Dave Plews - Trumpet , Stuart Robson - Horn, Paul Spear - Tenor Sax, Jeff Blythe - Alto Sax The Dirty Dozen Brass Band (on 'Spike', 'MLAR'): Gregory Davis - trumpet, Efrem Towns - Trumpet, Kevin Harris - Tenor Saxophone, Roger Lewis - Baritone and Soprano Saxophones, Charles Joseph - Trombone, Kirk Joseph - Sousaphone The Confederates : James Burton - guitar, Jerry Scheff - bass The Rude 5 (on 'MLAR') : Larry Knechtel - keyb, Mark Ribot/James Burton-guitar, Pete Thomas/Jim Keltner - drums, Jerry Scheff - bass, Steven Soles - vocals/guitar The Brodsky Quartet (on 'TJL') : Michael Thomas - Violin, Ian Belton - Violin, Paul Cassidy - Viola, Jacqueline Thomas : Violoncello Connections to Other Artists Artists that Elvis has collaborated/worked with ----------------------------------------------- Larry Adler, Chet Baker, Martin Belmont, Tony Bennett, Rueben Blades, The Bluebells, Billy Bremmer, Charles Brown, Carlene Carter, Philip Chevron, The Chieftains, Johnny Cash, Jimmy Cliff, Mary Coughlan, Chris Difford, Dave Edmunds, The Eurythmics, Georgie Fame, Darryl Hall, John Hiatt, Chrissy Hynde, Wendy James, George Jones, Mick Jones, The Kinks, Clive Langer, Nick Lowe, Madness, Paul McCartney, Roger McGuinn, Christy Moore, Cait O'Riordan, Roy Orbison, Sam Phillips, The Pogues, Mark Ribot, Annie Ross, Ricky Scaggs, The Specials, Dusty Springfield, Bruce Springsteen, Squeeze, The Stiff Gang, Rachel Sweet, Benmont Tench, Allen Toussaint, 'Til Tuesday, T-Bone Burnett, David Was, Rob Wasserman, Robert Wyatt Artists that have influenced Elvis ---------------------------------- The Band, The Beatles, Hoagy Carmichael, The Grateful Dead, Bob Dylan, Lowell George, George Jones, Randy Newman, Gram Parsons, John Prine, Brinsley Schwarz, The Rolling Stones, Tom Waits, Hank Williams Other artists often mentioned on the EC mailing list --------------------------------------------------------- Tasmin Archer, Billy Bragg, Aztec Camera, Nick Drake, Joe Jackson, Yoko Ono, Liz Phair, The Replacements, Linda Ronstadt, Richard Thompson, XTC FAQS Resource Questions ------------------ Q. Is there a WWW/Mosaic Elvis Costello page? A. Yes, if you are not reading it already, the URL is http://east.isx.com/~schnitzi/elvis.html Q. Are there any Elvis Fanzines? A. The Elvis Costello Information Service is published six times a year, and contains concert reviews, information regarding new releases, etc. For more information see the Elvis WWW page, or write to Richard Groothuizen, Primulastraat 46, 1441 HC Purmerend, Holland. Q. How do I join the Elvis Costello mailing list? A. Send e-mail to majordomo@rain.org with the words 'subscribe costello-l' in the message body. There is also a digest version available by substituting 'costello-l-digest' for 'costello-l' above. Q. How many people are there on the mailing list? A. For a list of e-mail addresses, send e-mail to majordomo@rain.org with the words 'who costello-l' in the message body. Q. Where are the archives to the Elvis Costello mailing list kept? A. The archives, are available by FTP at CS.UWP.EDU, in the directories "/pub/music/artists/c/costello.elvis", "pub/music/lists/costello" and "pub/music/lyrics/c/costello.elvis". Q. Has anyone on the EC mailing list done a poll of people's favourite EC songs/albums? A. Every few months polls are conducted on the mailing list, the most recent ones being in March, May, and September 1994. The results of the latest one were: Top ten songs: Top Three Albums: Beyond Belief Imperial Bedroom Accidents Will Happen (tie)-| King of America Man Out of Time | Get Happy! New Lace Sleeves | Oliver's Army (tie)-| Riot Act | Watching the Detectives So Like Candy (tie)-| I Want You | New Amsterdam Sulky Girl Elvis Questions --------------- Q. What was EC's first ever official release? A. The 7" single on Stiff Records (BUY 11) "Less Than Zero" b/w "Radio Sweetheart" was EC's debut recording early in 1977. Q. What are Elvis' all-time top selling albums? A. #1: Spike, #2: Mighty Like a Rose Q. I've heard that EC has done 'country' & 'classical' albums, which ones are they, and are they to be recommended? A. 'Almost Blue' is a collection of country/western covers recorded by EC and the Attractions in Nashville. Reactions to this album are largely a matter of taste, but if you can't stand steel pedal guitars I wouldn't recommend it. 'King of America' was also recorded with a c/w flair, and is the favourite Elvis album of many fans. 'The Juliet Letters' features Elvis and the Brodsky Quartet, a well known string quartet in classical musical circles. Again, EC fans either love or hate this album. In any case, it provides an interesting showcase for Elvis' vocal abilities. Q. I'd like to get a couple of 'live import recordings' (bootlegs) by EC, which ones would you recommend? A. For starters the following are good performances in good quality: Aim To Please [CD] - Early Flip City demos. Do The Rhumba [CAS] - Jap TV broadcast from 21-Nov-87. Elvis Goes To Washington & Dave Edmunds & Rockpile Don't [CD] - Stereo FM radio broadcast from '79. One of the best 'early' EC boots. Every Day I Write The Book [CD] - Philadelphia 11/08/84. Nashville And More [CD] - studio demos for _Almost Blue_. Riot Act '83 [CD] - Hammersmith Palace, London, 17-Oct-83. This is Tomorrow [CD] - London concert from BBC tapes Unauthorized Live Vol.1 - burnin'! (from Paul Hosken (rmcb@vm.op.dlr.de)). Q. A number of live tracks have appeared on various b-sides, how come EC has never released a live album (excluding the _El Mocambo_ promo)? A. ? Q. Where did he come up with the pseudonym 'Elvis Costello' A. His great-grandmother's name was Costello, and he started out after Flip City disbanded in 1975 using the name 'D. P. Costello'. After signing with Stiff records, he changed the first name to Elvis, purportedly at Jake Riviera's suggestion. According to EC: 'I thought Elvis was a better name than Jesus, and almost as exclusive'. Q. What was the Bonnie Bramlett incident? A. Elvis back in 1979 made some not-so-politically-correct comments about Ray Charles while drinking with Bonnie Bramlett in the bar of the Holiday Inn-Downtown in Columbus, Ohio. He was later forced to make a public apology at a press conference. Q. What was the story behind Less Than Zero/Radio Radio performance on SNL? A. According to an interview with EC, they were bored and drunk (supposedly, Lorne Michaels wanted the Sex Pistols, but they declined), and decided to pull a "Jimi Hendrix" (Hendrix did a similar thing on Lulu's 1960's BBC show--stopped in the middle of one song and start another). EC later commented that "obviously, it isn't THAT live". Q. Where does he currently reside? A. He lives with his wife Cait near Enniskerry, Ireland. Q. Did he really get his record contract by setting up an amp on the side- walk in front of a record company? A. Elvis got his contract with Stiff Records after he mailed them his demo tape. In order to get an international deal (purportedly at Jake Riveria's suggestion) he later strapped a pignose amp on his back and played in front of a hotel in London where a CBS records international convention was taking place. He was not arrested, but forced to leave by the police. Q. What guitars does he play? A. The list currently includes: - Fender Jazzmaster, with 'Elvis Costello' inlaid on the fretboard - oldish Martin D28 - Gibson J-160E acoustic - Gretch Country Gent - '54 Telecaster (stolen while on tour c. 1984) - Gibson F-5 mandolin - 3 Ferringtons: a small 17" and a normal 25 3/8" both with "Elvis Costello" inlaid on the neck, and a 34" fretless bass (what look like frets are really just inlaid plastic strips) Q. What was EC's first job? A. Computer operator for the Elizabeth Arden cosmetics firm. "[In 1973?] I got a job as a computer operator, which happened to be comparatively well paid: about twenty pounds a week. I'd just put tapes on the machines and feed cards in, line up printing machines - all the manual work the computer itself doesn't have arms to do." (From Elvis Costello Explains Himself, Rolling Stone,9/2/82 by Greil Marcus) Q. When did he first start wearing glasses? A. At the Elizabeth Arden cosmetics firm (the 'vanity factory' in 'I'm Not Angry'), where the computer screens were giving him headaches. He adopted a pair of peardrop-shaped tinted glasses. According to _?_, " There is no reason to suggest that Declan - or Elvis - ever had to wear glasses for optical reasons. Q. Why are some EC tunes credited to MacManus, and others Costello? A. EC changed his name legally back to DPAM, so for international copyright reasons, all songs after KOA are published under DPAM. ('I Hope You're Happy Now' was written in 1984) Q. Why are there so many references to 'Hammersmith' in EC songs? (Crimes of Paris, London's Brilliant Parade, Fish 'n' Chip Paper) A. Possibly because EC's father used to play the Hammersmith Palais in London frequently with the Joe Loss Orchestra. Elvis later himself performed there. Q. What's up with the lyrics to 'Stalin Malone' A. Elvis couldn't get the words to fit the music, so he left the song as an instrumental and printed the words on the back of 'Spike' (not found in cassette version). Q. Who is that saying the words 'Poor Napoleon' in the song of the same name? A. EC's wife, Cait. She also says the words 'In Dusseldorf' in 'Chewing Gum'. Q. When will the "Kojak Varieties" & the Brodsky "Encores" be officially released? A. (The former is a collection of various covers done by EC and the Rude Five, while the latter contains several songs performed live by EC and the Brodskys on their U.S. tour). According to Brett Milano (CD Review Magazine): EC is "none too pleased that it's been bootlegged," and EC himself says: "I don't want to have criminals telling me when to release my records. I'll put it out when the time comes . . . I waited 30 years to sing some of those songs, so I figure I can wait another five to put these versions out." Nor will the Brodsky "Encores" EP be released in the úÿ immediate future. Q. Why was the original name of EC's third album changed from "Emotional Fascism' to 'Armed Forces'? ('EF' appears on the inner sleeve of the UK LP) A. ??? Q. What are 'The Crimes of Paris'? (from the song of the same name, also mentioned in 'Jack of All Parades') A. (From: AMadDogRby@aol.com) I also asked EC about the Crimes of Paris. We can all keep guessing because he doesn't know either- he just liked the phrase. He has searched many guides on the origins of slang and common phrases and has come up empty himself. He doesn't believe The C of P have anything to do with The Illiad or to do with Shakespeare's character Paris. His best assumption is that it derives from a time when the British looked at Paris as a city full of temptations, sin and general debauchery and thus The Crimes of Paris. Q. What is the translation of the Italian dedication in the Brutal Youth CD booklet? A. "I proclaim, I dedicate this absurd scribble and babble to my youthful brute with amazing desire" (from eeihmy@eeiatus01.ericsson.se) Q. Did the Canadian band The Tragically Hip get their name from the line in Elvis' song 'Town Cryer' (found on Imperial Bedroom)? A. No. It apparently was from the (former Monkee) Michael Nesmith video 'Elephant Parts', which predates Imperial Bedroom. Q. Who painted the cover painting of Imperial Bedroom? A. The artist was Barney Bubbles, a popular new wave graphic artist who committed suicide several years ago. He also directed the video for 'Accidents Will Happen'. The credit on the sleeve 'Sal Forlenza, 1942' is false, as EC describes in the IB liner notes how he commissioned Barney to paint the cover in 1981. Q. Did EC paint the cover of B&C under the pseudonym of Eamonn Singer? A. ?? Questions regarding The Attractions ----------------------------------- Q. What are they up to now? A. Steve and Pete are members of the Jonathan Ross Band, while Bruce is living in L.A., writing a book about Bruce Lee. All are currently touring with E.C. Following the tour Steve plans to tour with French pianist Alain Chalfont. Q. What is Steve Nieve's real name? A. Steve Nieve's (pronounced like the word naive) real name is Steve Nason. Q. Are Bruce and Pete Thomas related? A. No. Q. What keyboards does Steve Nieve use on stage? A. A Farfisa and a Vox Continental (among others), both popular organs in the mid-sixties and was all Steve had/could afford at the time. Q. What's the title of the Attractions' solo album, and is it to be recommended? A. 'Mad About the Wrong Boy' was recorded by Bruce, Pete, and Steve in 198_ and is a fine example of early 80's pop. Although the songs are fairly well written, and the instrumental performances are excellent, you quickly become aware of the reason why the Attractions are very rarely featured as singers on EC albums. Q. Who are Brain/Hart? (writers of Sad About Girls and other tracks on the Attractions solo album) A. It has been suggested that it's Steve Nieve (and Faye Hart?). EC calls "Mad About Girls" SN's song in the liner notes for Ryko's Trust. The song is credited to Brain/Hart. SN was sometimes introduced on stage as "Norman Brain", and on the back of the Trust LP (& Ryko CD booklet) SN appears as "Steve Hart". According to the book "Elvis Costello - A Completely False Biography Based On Rumor, Innuendo, and Lies" by Krista Reese (1981) on page 105, it says, Steve Nieve's girlfriend at the time was a lady by the name of Faye Hart. It's written that she had a very abrasive personality and was fond of calling herself, "Farrah Fuck-It Minor". (LeeAnne@aol.com) Ryko Re-issue Questions ----------------------- Q. The jewel-box sprockets on my Ryko re-issues are broken. How do I get replacements? A. Write a letter saying how many replacement cases you need to: Carter, Pickering Wharf, Bldg. C., Salem, MA 01970 Q. What albums are Ryko planning to re-release? A. MAIT, Live at El Mocambo, TYM, AF, GH, T, AB,IB have already been re-released with bonus tracks. A new 'Greatest Hits' compilation (containing no new material) has also been released. PTC and GCW are due out Feb. 21, 1995, and KoA and B&C in Fall 1995. Q. Why aren't all of Elvis' B-sides being released on the Ryko re-issues? A. The re-issues are under Elvis' direct control. He is apparently more concerned about quality in the extended play selections, rather than completeness. Q. Is it worth replacing my old CDs with the new Ryko releases? A. The bonus tracks are obviously a strong enticement, and many people on the list have noticed a marked improvement in sound quality, especially on the earlier albums. Q. Why were the titles of 'Lovers Walk' and 'Man Called Uncle' changed to 'Lover's Walk' and 'Men Called Uncle' on the GH re-issue? A. According to Elvis, the original titles were printed incorrectly, the Ryko versions are the correct ones. Q. Why does "Black Sails in the Sunset" on the ryko re-issue of "Trust" fade out 11 seconds earlier than the "Out of Our Idiot" version? A. According to ICE (International CD Exchange), the Rykodisc reissues originated with Demon, the British label that Costello partially owns, and that Elvis himself oversaw the entire process, so any minor changes merely reflect his wishes." Q. Is my CD defective, or is there a missing beat 23 seconds into "I'm Not Angry" on the Ryko re-issue of "My Aim is True"? A. There is indeed a missing beat, no reply from Ryko yet as to why. Q. What's with the extra track (31) on the Ryko re-issue of "Get Happy!!"? A. Jeff Rougvie, Ryko product manager says: 'The demo version of "Love For Tender" which closes the album is intentionally cut, which is why it is not listed as an extended play track. As I'm sure you've noticed, the album is now 30 tracks long (up from the original 20). When the first song on the disc (albeit a different version) begins again after track 30, it almost heralds the whole album starting again. Mr. Costello thought that this would be humorous, and we agreed.' Books "A Singing Dictionary" Elvis Costello. 1980 Plangent Visions Music Inc. Music scores and lyrics to: MAIT, TYM, AF, GH!!, TL plus "That's What Friends Are For" "Everyday I Write The Song (Grumbling Appendix To The Singing Dictionary)". Elvis Costello. 1983 Plangent Visions Music Ltd. Music scores and lyrics to: T, IB, PTC plus some great photos "Spike" Elvis Costello. 1989. Words and music score to the album. "Brutal Youth" Elvis Costello. 1994. Words and music score to the album. "Elvis Costello: A Man Out Of Time (A Critical Companion To His Lyrics And Music)". David Gouldstone. 1989 Sidgwick & Jackson ISBN 0283997079. The author gives his own personal interpretations of EC's lyrics. Covers through B&C "God's Comic" David Gouldstone. 199_ (Revised Version of EC: A Man Out of Time) Covers through 'Spike' "Written in My Soul" Bill Flanagan. Contains 1986 interview with EC @ King of America, originally published in Musician magazine. "Punk Diary: 1970-1979'. George Gimarc 1994 St. Martin's Publishing. Follows Elvis through his days from Rusty, Flip City to the start of his days with the Attractions and Stiff Records. It's also a good source of info about early releases, demos and rarities. "The Dark Stuff" Nick Kent. Features two interviews with Elvis circa 1978. "Book of Rock Lists" by David Marsh. EC is mentioned many times in various lists. "Ranters & Crowd Pleasers" by Greil Marcus ISBN number 0-385-41720-9. (punk in pop music, 1977-92). Our El is devoted a well-deserved nine chapters, including the "Elvis Costello Repents" article from Rolling Stone, perhaps the last word on the infamous Bonnie Bramlett incident. "The Story of My Life" by Jay McInereny. There are several references to EC in this novel. The main character's name is Alison - the group sings part of Alison to her. She replies with some lines from "Party Girl". Also, one the women shows up with "a member of the EC band" (wvaughan@magnus.acs.ohio-state.edu) "Stiff: The Story Of A Record Label" by Bert Muirhead. Details all Stiff releases 1976-1982. "Elvis Costello: The Illustrated Disco/Biography". Geoff Parkyn. 1984 Omnibus Press ISBN 0711905312. Covers to release of GCW "Strip Jack" authored by Ian Rankin. Published by St. Martin's Press, 1994. $20.95 ISBN 0312105533. St. Martin's specializes in fiction, especially mysteries. This one features an Inspector Rebus of the Glasgow Police Force. Features a character named Aloysius Costello, a university professor. "Elvis Costello: A Completely False Biography Based On Rumour, Innuendo And Lies". Krista Reese 1981 Proteus Publishing ISBN0906071623. Covers through Trust "Elvis Costello: An Illustrated Biography". Mick St.Michael. 1986 Omnibus Press ISBN 0711907722. Covers through GCW and release of Best Of. "The Complete Costello" ed. K.L. Stuart. 1991 Clark MacKent Publishing Co., Palo Alto, CA. This lyric collection that purports to be the complete EC guide for all the songs thru MLAR...Including compilations and European versions. "The Big Wheel". Bruce Thomas. 1990 Viking 0670834432. EC penned the song 'How To Be Dumb' in response to this book by the Attractions' bassist about life on the road with EC & the Attractions. "Going Through the Motions" 1985. Author unknown. Contains set lists from 1977-1985. Available through the Elvis Costello Information Service. Concert Tours (need comments on early tours) 1977: London :openr. John Cooper Clarke 1977: Live Stiffs Tour USA ops: Rockpile, Talking Heads, Tom Petty, Eddie Money 1979: Armed Funk Tour: USA ops: Rubinoos, UK ops: John Cooper Clarke, Richard Hell & the Voidoids 1980: Trust Tour: EC & A, op. Squeeze 1981: Imperial Bedroom Tour :ops. The Plimsouls, Sussman Lawrence 1982: Almost Blue, Almost 1982 Tour: op. Talk Talk 1983: Punch the Clock Tour : EC, Attractions, & TKO Horns; op. Aztec Camera 1984: Goodbye Cruel World Tour : EC & Attractions; ops. Nick Lowe, The Pogues 1986: Napoleon Dynamite/Spinning Songbook Tour : EC & Attractions ,also Bangles,Tom Petty ; featured Elvis with a big wheel with song titles, which he got members of the crowd to spin to select the next song. Huey Lewis was the guest 'host' at a few shows in San Francisco. Last show in L.A. had Tom Waits as the MC (bigstar@io.com) 1987: King of America Tour: EC, op. Nick Lowe. EC played 6 cities in U.S. with the KofA band. 1989: Spike Tour : Nick Lowe, Rude 5 Featured EC solo acoustic. 1991: Mighty Like a Rose Tour : Elvis Costello & the Rude 5; ops. The Replacements, Sam Phillips, The La's Elvis in full beard, baseball cap and sunglasses 1993: Juliet Letters Tour (4 venues only) : EC and the Brodsky Quartet Performed entire album plus eight encores 1994: Brutal Youth Tour : EC & the Attractions; ops. Crash Test Dummies, Difford and Tilbrook of Squeeze, Cast Elvis toured with the Attractions for first time since 1987 Film Appearances Straight to Hell: Elvis has cameo as a waiter, and his song 'A Town Called Big Nothing' is featured on the soundtrack. Cait O'Riordan sings 'Danny Boy' with the Pogues in the film. Americathon : Elvis seen briefly singing on a street corner as 'Earl Manchester'. Sings 'Crawling to the USA' and 'Wednesday Week' on the soundtrack. No Surrender: Elvis plays an incompetent magician in a dilapidated nightclub. Absolute Beginners: EC has cameo appearance at a bar in a black leather jacket. (can anyone verify this?) The Bullshitters: EC plays part of a rock band manager. Music Related Films ------------------- The Juliet Letters: Full length concert video featuring EC and Brodsky Quartet. "Rock for Kampuchea": 1979 benefit concert video featuring various bands at the Hammersmith Odeon, London. Weird Nightmare : Ray Davies of the Kinks and EC worked together on the film Ray made on the life of Charles Mingus, "Weird Nightmare". It is available only on Japanese laser disc. It is a documentary-style film, with quite a lot of commentary from E and some studio work! Soundtracks Americathon - features "Crawling to the USA", "Wednesday Week" Club Paradise - features "Seven Day Weekend" in closing credits The Courier - stars EC's wife, Cait O'Riordan - features 8 instrumentals composed and arranged by EC 'The Family' (BBC series). EC contributed 4 unreleased songs to play over the credits of 4 episodes. Week 1: "Step inside love" (Lennon/McCartney) Week 2: "You`ve got to hide your love away" (Lennon/McCartney) Week 3: "Sticks and Stones" (Titus Turner) Week 4: "Kinder Murder" from BY. GBH (Grievous Bodily Harm) TV Series Soundtrack (All instrumentals) Godfather III - features 'Miracle Man' in scene in Italian villa w/ Andy Garcia and Sofia Coppola Party Party - EC does the title track Scully (British TV show) - "Turning the Town Red" is theme song. Self Catering (made for TV movie) - features "I Can't Stand Up For Falling "Down" and "Pump it Up" Straight To Hell - features 'A Town Called Big Nothing' Until the End of the World - features Elvis cover of 'Days' by the Kinks TV Appearances (Need more info on British/European TV appearances) 197? BBC - Top of the Pops 1978, "Saturday Night Live" Watching the Detectives / Less Than Zero (start) /Radio, Radio 1978,9? - TISWAS : Elvis makes an appearance on this anarchistic children's TV show. 1979 BBC - Top of the Pops Oliver's Army Feb. 4, 1981, "Tomorrow Show with Tom Snyder New Lace Sleeves / Watch Your Step 1981, ITV "The South Bank Show" Documentary on the making of Almost Blue 1983, "Late Night With David Letterman" : Man Out of Time/ Kid About It August 1984, "The Tonight Show (Guest Host Joan Rivers)" : I Hope You're Happy Now / Peace In Our Time - EC changes the last verse of PIOT to 'There's already one spaceman in the White House, why'd you want the same one for' July 13, 1985, "Live Aid" : All You Need is Love (EC had the lyrics written on the back of his hand) 1987 Roy Orbison and Friends - TV Special 198? Chet Baker and Friends - Home Video 1986 or 1987: Guest VJ on MTV 198? BBC series "Scully" - EC appears on one episode as the main character's train-obsessed and simpleton brother. 1989? BBC "Everything You Always Wanted to Know About Spike" Special on making of 'Spike' 1989? Documentary : The Making of "Flowers in the Dirt" 1989? BBC Late Show : Interview + 'Let Him Dangle' and 'Baby Plays Around' March 3, 1989 "Late Night With David Letterman" Pads, Paws, and Claws / Leave My Kitten Alone March 25, 1989 "Saturday Night Live" (Introduction by guest host Mary Tyler Moore : "Elvis Costello's penis is here tonight") Veronica / Let Him Dangle 1991, "Saturday Night Live" - Host: George Wendt The Other Side of Summer / So Like Candy 1991, "MTV Unplugged" (Anyone have the track listing?) 1991 ABC "In Concert" Featured a concert from the MLAR tour with the rude 5 Sept. 1993 PBS : Special on making of 'The Juliet Letters' March 1993, "The Tonight Show With Jay Leno" Jacksons, Monk, and Rowe / Taking My Life In Your Hands April 1, 1994, "Late Night With David Letterman" : 13 Steps Lead Down May 12, 1994, "Late Night With David Letterman" : Kinder Murder June 1994 "MTV Unplugged w/ Tony Bennett" Duet with Tony Bennett - They Can't Take That Away From Me June 12, 1994 Host of MTV's "120 Minutes" Elvis plays some rocking videos from some lesser known groups, also 'Oliver's Army' and 'Sulky Girl' úÿ July 21, 1994 HBO "Larry Sanders Show" Performs '13 Steps Lead Down', Elvis acts in several skits. July 1994 MuchMusic 'Egos and Icons' Interview with Elvis about BY, along with clips of some old videos Oct 29, 1994 BBC1 "The Danny Baker Show" Interview where EC admits his worst song to date was 'Party Party' Nov 18, 1994 BBC2 "The O-zone" "13 Steps Lead Down" Nov 26, 1994 BBC1 "The Danny Baker Show" 'Shipbuilding' / 'London's Brilliant Parade' Obscure Elvis References in TV, Movies, etc. Beastie Boys - latest album features a song with the lyric 'I got more attractions than Elvis Costello' Beavis and Butthead - Title of one episode is "Radio Sweethearts" Beverly Hills 90210 - 'The Other Side of Summer' is featured as background music during one episode Dead at 21 - 'Accidents Will Happen' features as background music as two people are changing a baby "E.T. The Extra-Terrestrial" -- older son sings "Accidents Will Happen" for a few seconds while opening the fridge door (EC still gets royalties for this apparently) Fast Times at Ridgemont High - Jeff Damone has a huge 'Trust' poster on his bedroom wall Jocks - One of the characters asks if he can play some EC in the car. Just One of the Guys - Two women in the movie mention that the lead actress 'dresses like Elvis Costello' Less Than Zero - EC's 'Trust' poster appears prominently in this movie. Melrose Place - Alison Parker's ex-boyfriend sings horrendous version of 'Alison' in one episode. Mystery Date - main character (Nathan Hawke) has a MAIT poster in his room. MST3K - Crow & Gypsy the wise-cracking robots frequently make Elvis references (some of them rather obscure - apparently Jim Mallon (voice of Gypsy) is a big Elvis fan) The Newz - Featured a comedy skit entitled "The Abbott and Costello Show", in which the actors impersonating Bud Abbott and *Elvis* Costello. The Rockford Files - EC mentioned in one episode as an example of modern culture. Satisfaction - Justine Bateman does a version of 'Mystery Dance' on the soundtrack. Saturday Night Live 1994 - Michael McKean (Spinal Tap) does Elvis Costello impersonation in one skit . SCTV - 'Elvis and Costello' skit features players impersonating Elvis Presley and Lou Costello. Short Cuts -- Nightclub singer sings "Punishing Kiss" Singles - a guy meets an old friend who used to be a DJ and talks about how he used to mix 'Peace, Love..' by EC and a Public Enemy song on the radio. Square Pegs - dialogue on one episode mentions EC: 'I mean look at Elvis Costello (reply): Do I have to?' (pearsonp@elwha.evergreen.com) Steven Banks Show - 'Spike' poster on wall of main character's apartment. - woman on show goes to a concert where EC jams with Dylan, Van Morrison, Harrison and others. Taxi - In one episode Latka Gravas (Andy Kaufman), is listening to a record player on headphones while he's fixing a cab. Louie DePalma (Danny DeVito) goes to the record player and drags the needle. Causing Latka to shout "Hey! You just wasted Elvis Costello!" Whose Line is it Anyway - comedian Greg Proops sang out the credits in an Elvis Costello style one episode. Also does a Elvis-esque version of Rudolf the Red Nosed Reindeer WKRP - A 'Trust' poster can be seen on the wall of the radio studio in some episodes Contributors: (mlechner@ozarks.sgcl.lib.mo.us),(haas%sjsuvmi.bitnet@mitva.mit.edu) (selway.j@mail.ei.com),(Choochmon@aol.com),(dorian@apanix.apana.org.au ) (pearsonp@elwha.evergreen.edu), (smallman@cyberspace.com) Elvis' Desert Island Choices (from Eddie Thornley) On Desert Island Discs you get 8 records, a book (as well Bible & Shakespeare) plus a luxury item. Then at the end the castaway can only have one record. I believe he chose his dad's track At Last as the one to keep. RECORDS 1 Beethoven's String Quartet Opus 135 performed by the Brodsky Quartet 2 Frank Sinatra - I've got you under my skin 3 Ross MacManus - At Last (but at least I've *got* this one) 4 Mozart - Marriage of Figaro Act 1, Aria 5 Beatles - You've really got a hold on me 6 Schubert - Bb piano sonata - Brendel 7 Purcell - Dido & Aeneas, Dido's lament - von Otte 8 Duke Ellington Orchestra - Bloodcount (Billy Strayhorn) featuring Johnny Hodges (Alto Sax) BOOK A James Thurber Selection containing: Let your mind alone The greatest man in the world LUXURY An upright piano decorated with an embossed Boticelli Elvis' 10 Favourite Things >From (July 1994 Washington Post article): 1. Ace Ventura Pet Detective "A guilty pleasure...I just laughed myself sick" 2. The Age of Innocence "It's as close to The Magnificent Ambersons as you're going to get these days" 3. The Art Institute of Chicago 4. Goya's A Man Picking Fleas From His little Dog 5. Bikini Kill by Bikini Kill "Their record label is called Kill Rock Stars. We're probably on their list" 6. Martinis and Bikinis by Sam Phillips "I fear it might be like Aimee Mann's record. It might be almost *too* good to get airplay" 7. The memoirs of Hector Berlioz 8. All These Things by the Uniques 9. Duke Ellington's Anatomy of a Murder sountrack 10. Mezzo soprano Anne Sophie von Otter >From an interview with EC on BBC's 'Pop on the line' show, Nov 26, 1994: (DYDT6012@iruccvax.ucc.ie) Favorite EC single - changes all the time, but Watching the Detectives is a favourite as it was his first hit. Favourite early EC album - TYM and Thrust. Favourite classical composer - Schubert. When asked if the Beatles influenced him, Elvis said that Please Please Me and With The Beatles were the first single and album he bought and that he was a member of the Beatles fan club when he was 11. When Elvis first began playing guitar at 13 he played Beatles songs. Origins of EC Album Titles My Aim is True - lyric from "Alison" This Year's Model - variation on lyric from "(I.D.W.T.G.T.) Chelsea", also variation on song title 'This Year's Girl' Armed Forces - probably from 'Oliver's Army', but also general military theme. (Original title for album was 'Emotional Fascism') Get Happy! - Elvis' response to poor reviews of 'Armed Forces' (martin@gate2.cc.unp.ac.za) Trust - perhaps from Squeeze song of the same name (b- side of both 'Is That Love?', and 'Tempted' which were produced by EC.) (Robmy@aol.com) Taking Liberties - line from 'Crawling to the USA' Almost Blue - ? (later became a song title on "Imperial Bedroom") Imperial Bedroom - ? Original title was 'PS I Love You' (EC wrote title song after album was released) Punch the Clock - lyric from "The Greatest Thing" Goodbye Cruel World - Around this time EC got sick of pop star life, things became strained with the Attractions, his first marriage broke up, hence the title. (From Musician magazine, [JerrydB@aol.com]) King of America - first line of "Brilliant Mistake" Blood & Chocolate - first line of "Uncomplicated" Ten Bloody Mary's and Ten How's Your Fathers - ? (Ten songs on each side) Out of our Idiot - ? Girls+ /Girls=$+Girls - ? Spike - Reference to blues musician Spike Jones Mighty Like A Rose - quote in booklet, also line from 'The Other Side of Summer': ('The mightiest rose / the absence of perfume') The Juliet Letters - songs are written in the form of letters to Juliet of Shakespearean fame Brutal Youth - beginning of 2nd verse of "Favourite Hour" Originally contributed by (boojum1660@aol.com) Acknowledgements Thanks to all the people on the EC mailing list, without whom this FAQ would have been impossible to write. Special thanks go to Amy Coppola, Gordon Dymowski, Melinda Hale, Paul Hosken, and Aaron Yarlas for helping to edit early versions of this document.