Unfaithful Music & Disappearing Ink

For a love of Elvis Costello and his music, I wanted to enjoy this book more. But the fragmented tales jump time and place faster than a Dick Dale guitar riff. Still, the book contains moments of magic for me. It was seldom easy to read, but I'm glad I read it.

Best parts: the fascinating, vast number of other musicians with whom Costello has interacted and been influenced by - Johnny Cash, Dylan, Nick Lowe, Allen Toussaint, etc., the tales from his early days as one of the “Angry Young Men,” and the origins of many of his most notable songs. Weaknesses: the book jumps around in time, even within chapters, so you get more of a feel for his life instead of a clear picture. Plus he gets a little indulgent towards the end, eschewing recollection for ruminating on his relationship with his father. I was a little surprised by the way he basically shrugs off his flagrant adultery against his first wife, but I guess that's all part of sex, drugs, and rock & roll. Overall a memorable and honest read that doesn't mind taking a risk that the reader will close the book liking its subject and author a little less than when the book started.