Elvis Costello's "National Ransom"

Rebroadcast

Singer, songwriter, iconoclast Elvis Costello made his name and image early on: the big, black Buddy Holly glasses; the punk suits; then the pork pie hat.

He had hits you hummed, like “Alison,” “Pump It Up,” “Everyday I Write the Book.” And right on through, he's maintained one of the most eclectic careers in music — brainy, then driving, then suddenly danceable.

Now, Costello’s out with a new album, “National Ransom."

In an archive edition of On Point, we listen in with him, and hear a special live acoustic performance.
-Tom Ashbrook

Note: This show was first broadcast November 4, 2010.

Elvis Costello, singer-songwriter who has released over thirty albums since his debut, “My Aim is True,” in 1977.  He's collaborated with many of the biggest names in music over the years – Paul McCartney, Roy Orbison, Tony Bennett, Lucinda Williams, Brian Eno, and many more.  His new album is "National Ransom."