Fantastic Four-Album Runs: Elvis Costello From 1986 to 1991

Elvis Costello’s albums from 1986 to 1991 show a sustained creative high point, as he moved away from pop-focused records towards a broader, more personal sound. The period matters because it brought out his strengths as a storyteller and lyricist while allowing him to explore roots music, rock and more eclectic styles.

*King of America* (1986), made largely without The Attractions, drew on American roots music with producer T Bone Burnett and session players. Costello then reunited with the band for the forceful *Blood & Chocolate*; later, co-writing with Paul McCartney helped shape *Spike* (1989), which included the pop hit “Veronica”. The run ended with *Mighty Like a Rose* (1991), whose bright musical references contrast with its bitter and disappointed lyrics.