Elvis Costello
Kojak Variety

(Rhino)

Kojak Variety is really for the true Elvis Costello fan. It's an interesting amalgamation of the songwriter's obscure influences and favorite songs that should shed some light on what goes through his head from time to time and what he draws upon when penning his own tunes. The best known of the songs on this disc are Bob Dylan's I Threw It All Away, Willie Dixon's Hidden Charms, Ray Davies' Days, and Little Willie John's Leave My Kitten Alone, most recently appearing on The Beatles' Anthology Volume 1.  It's a tightly played collection that's quite enjoyable, and Costello's liner notes are interesting to read. Even so, it feels like filler that is meant to bide time until he crafts some new material. 

1 Star:   Pitiful
2 Stars: Listenable
3 Stars: Respectable
4 Stars: Excellent
5 Stars: Can't Live Without It!!