Elvis Costello and the Imposters took to the stage on Friday’s episode of The Late Show With Stephen ColbertPerform a powerful performance “Farewell, OK,” the lead track from the group’s latest album,The Boy Named If.
The song tells of a couple that has gone off the rails. One party wonders how it might have ended differently. “Ran my hand in the rhythm along the ballroom wall,” Costello sings. “Felt the rumble of the bass through the entrance hall/ And the door flung open to a mascara cry/ I can’t shake the sound of ‘How could you or why?’”
“Like a lot of good rock and roll songs this began with a drummer down in a basement and a singer howling outside the backdoor,”Costello made the statement in relation to the track. “It’s a blurred gaze, a drink too much, an accidental punch and a kiss goodnight all in the tumult of a dancehall.”
The My aim is true rocker also surprised the audience with a rendition of his classic hit, “(What’s So Funny ‘Bout) Peace, Love, and Understanding.” The song, which appeared on Costello’s 1979 LP Armed ForcesOriginal lyrics for, were written by Nick Lowe (English singer-songwriter).
The Boy Named IfThis album was released earlier in the month. Interview with the artist about the album Rolling Stone’Costello spoke out in Costello’s Last Word column about what still draws him to rock music writing after nearly 50 years of service.
“I don’t like much rock music. I like rock & roll,”According to the 67 year-old, “I think if you lose the roll part, a lot of the fun goes out of it.”
Costello will be on the road in support of The Boy Named IfA short UK tour. You can find most information about the shows here on Costello’s website.