When I think of The Roots, I think of its signature sound: traditional band arrangements and rap vocals. On their collaboration with Elvis Costello, ”Wise Up Ghost,” I was treated to something that still sounded fresh and great, but lacked what I’ve come to expect from The Roots. Noticeably absent is Tariq “Black Thought” Trotter, rapper for The Roots, but it can be overlooked because Costello fills the void well. The Roots gives Costello a fresh, funky sound that he hasn’t used in his recent work. Tracks like “Walk Us Uptown,” “Refuse To Be Saved” and “Wise Up Ghost” can all back that up. In addition, there are some great slower songs like the powerful ballad “If I Could Believe.” The mix of different styles makes the album unique and worth a listen for any fan of Costello or The Roots.
Review: Elvis Costello & The Roots, “Wise Up Ghost”
By Rob Kitchen
September 18, 2013