Back on June 8, The Second Disc apprised its readers of a new collection being prepped by Elvis Costello for release on the Hip-o label. Entitled Pomp and Pout, it would be the first compilation of Costello’s Universal recordings, drawing on 10 years and 18 tracks.
Originally scheduled for July 13 release, it was postponed to later in July, and then to late in August. Now, with the August 24 release date approaching, it appears that Pomp and Pout has either been postponed, or pulled altogether, as it’s disappeared from retailers’ active order links.
It’s a possibility that this may have to do with the imminent release of Costello’s latest studio offering, National Ransom, which is due from Hear Music/Concord on October 25 internationally and November 2 domestically. Costello may have asked for the compilation to be removed from the release schedule so as not to compete with the new studio album. Ransom is produced by Costello’s fellow Coward Brother and longtime collaborator T-Bone Burnett, and features members of both the Imposters and the Sugarcanes, along with Marc Ribot, Leon Russell, Vince Gill and Buddy Miller.
Watch this space for more information on the fate of Pomp and Pout!
Shaun says
Looking forward to the new Costello album... I feel like he's been on a roll lately, with The Delivery Man, The River In Reverse (a wonderful album, with the great Allen Touissant) and last year's Secret, Profane and Sugarcane. There was also Momofuku, which had a few good tracks but it didn't grab me like those other three I mentioned.
Anyhow, what a lineup of guests on the new album! If it's anything like the last album, it should be great. Better still, another album probably means another tour!
John Cavanaugh says
So, whatever happened with this release? Was it eventually shelved altogether? I never heard anything after the last delay. Amazon.com still has it listed, but as "Unavailable." I'd be interested if anyone knows.
Mike Duquette says
I know at least one ICE forum user got a copy from Amazon, which has an "international version" available but nothing else. If this is seen on any shelves in the year, I imagine it'll be by accident.
Joe Marchese says
My copy arrived from Amazon.ca yesterday, and it's still in stock there for those who might be interested. The disc itself is manufactured and distributed by UMe Canada, complete with sticker in French and English. The track listing is indeed that of the "international version." This line-up removes "Dust" and "In the Darkest Place" and replaces them with "She" and "God Give Me Strength." EC is credited with compiling the set, and Gavin Lurssen handled the mastering.