Elvis Costello set to pump it again up for northern fans

Fans of the singer-songwriting scribe are counting down days to his next local appearance in less than a week's time - 40 years since he first graced Apollo Theatre stage among Stiffs Live alongside late, great stablemate Ian Dury.

Bridgewater Hall will on Sunday March 19 host his latest coming, soundtracked here by flashback to summer 2015 rocking of the venue with live set staple Oliver's Army anthem.

Critics worldwide have waxed lyrical about incredibly entertaining walk through an amazing life and back catalogue that is his Detour solo tour.

MEN reviewer wrote of the show: “There seemed to be a little extra Scouse tang to his accent than usual as held court with his guitar in front of a giant vintage TV set.

"The television displayed a test card – something which only people of a certain age will remember. Overlaying the screen were pictures highlighting memories of his childhood, his musical and cultural influences as well as old snaps of his family.

"The concept worked well as Costello stitched his songs into a narrative of recollections and anecdotes".

“By the time Sixties footage of his dad, looking the very spit of Costello on screen, as the singer's brothers appear for harmonies freighted with fraternal emotion, this gig has become more deep-rooted English feelings than punk.

"The GI bride heart-breaker 'American Without Tears' blurs into the clubland numbness of ‘Pump It Up’ into ‘Brother Can You Spare A Dime’ then ‘Oliver’s Army’ treads again on live danger lines of race, joblessness and false patriotism.

"Costello used to sneer with righteous rage. Now he is a profound showbiz veteran, from a country which should embrace him again,” implored another.

Tickets remain available online at www.bridgewater-hall.co.uk, Lower Mosley Street Box Office and by calling 0161 9079000.