Yep, you read that title correctly. This one may not have produced classic hits and most casual fans probably don't even realize this jewel of an album exists. It may also turn some off to see that this record is largely composed of songs that Costello originally composed for other artists. However, don't be fooled: this isn't a collection of leftovers or songs that failed to make the cut. Instead, this is his normal brilliance at work and the result is some of his most intimate, thoughtful, and spell-bounding work. From the gentle ballads of "Little Atoms" and "Distorted Angel" to the up-tempo rockers of "You Bowed Down" and "Complicated Shadows", there's not a trace of filler or wasted space to be found here. This is Elvis at his finest. And that's really saying something because this guy has been in top form since 1977. Give this one a chance and be prepared: this is sheer beauty and it's anything but useless.

This is an amazing, fitting end to the career of one of the greatest quartets in the history of music. All This Useless Beauty is a beautifully written and played work, and it's actually up to the standard of their greatest work. If you've never heard this album and are a fan of Elvis and the Attractions (with Bruce Thomas on Bass who was fired after this album and replaced), you must get it immediately. Great stuff.

I just started listening to Elvis Costello, thanks to the Jonas Brothers, i know people are always making fun of them, but anyways they said he was one of their influecces so i thought well i like them so i though i would like him and OMG he is amazing i went to my library and checked out 2 of his cd's(cause i had like no money) and they were awesome! I especially like "Watching the Detectives"!! Can't wait till i can buy more of his stuff(cause i got all that my library had!!!) : )

Ridiculous- no one has written a review? Jump the fence, the true fan will not be disappointed.