Just my opinions here, but Costello is one of rock's best songwriters; in his prime, he had a demonic howl of a voice. Presley had a pretty face, a lot of sex appeal, and white skin. As far as influence, Presley was one of the most influential rockers in history. As a cultural force, he was probably the most influential. As far as records go? Costello wins, hands down.
As a side note, I love the "Elvis is king" notes on the cover of My Aim Is True. Costello once said in an interview that the name helped him get away with a lot of creative borrowing. He said that everyone would be searching for his influences on old 50's records, when he was more likely to be lifting a phrase from the latest Talking Heads release.
__________________
"This sure doesn't look like 'Crazy Ernie's Amazing Emporium of Total Bargain Madness!'"
|