Painted From Memory
by Elvis Costello With Burt Bacharach

Painted from memory, is an ambitious collobaration with celebrated songwriter Burt Bacharach, but Elvis Costello does admirably, especially vocally, it's probably his best vocal performance of his career. Lyrically, he's on form, but sometimes the lyrics sound a bit too clever for their own good. As you would expect from the partnership here, there are some lovely songs. God give me strength, is superb, possibly the strongest track here, the title track is nice, and, toledo, is excellent. Elsewhere, there's, I still have that other girl, the shortest track here, which is very good, there's, the sweetest punch, which is a standout, as is, what's her name today? The album feels a little overlong, I think ten tracks would have been perfect, still, it's a good album with Costello pushing himself, he's obviously inspired by working with such a legend as Bacharach, but unfortunately, the LP wasn't a great commercial success, a pity, as it's very good.

From indieshins 05/03/2018 23:11 | #214127 | TOP COMMENT Vote up your preferred comments and the comments with the most votes will be flagged.

This is going to sound strange, but parts of this remind me of Steely Dan. I guess that makes sense as Bacharach has always written a jazz inflected brand of pop. What is more surprising is how good Costello's voice sounds over this stuff. It's some of the best vocal work of his career. That this collection works so well is a testament to the collaborative process - EC tames some of Bacharach's more hokey tendencies, while the older man stops EC from overwriting the melodies. It's not always an album I'm in the mood for, and there are some weak moments, but the best of them make this a rewarding album and a surprise triumph for two artists who were well past their most successful periods.

From spigelwii 04/30/2020 12:46 | #250703 | TOP COMMENT Vote up your preferred comments and the comments with the most votes will be flagged.

The songs are lush and beautifully produced, but many of them seem to lack the emotional impact you would expect from a Costello/Bacharach joint. Having said that, the album contains possibly the single most incredible piece of vocal work that Costello has ever performed: "God Give Me Strength". That song is absolutely must-hear, and the album has another handful of good songs that make the trip worthwhile if not *entirely* memorable. (Edited)

Elvis has aged like a fine wine. Unlike other artists (like Jagger for example), who forget they are 70 and can withdraw from a 401k without penalty, Elvis changes his style and hits the mark.

An underrated record from both of their discographies. Elvis Costello shows some much needed restraint in his vocals, which fit Bacharach's sensibilities surprisingly well.