Costello reveals some secrets

Elvis Costello explores his American roots with “Sugar, Profane and Sugarcane,” the legend’s staggering 36th studio release. Given that the album was recorded in Nashville with T-Bone Burnett, it’s no surprise the banjo, dobro and fiddle can be heard on many of the tracks powered by Costello’s southern drawl.

“Down Among the Wines and Spirits” sets the tone, with Costello sounding like an old school artist from the deep south. The absence of drums, coupled with the strong presence of the aforementioned instruments, gives a strong indication of what to expect -- and what not to expect -- on this record.

On “Hidden Shame,” the English artist shows his ability to play a toe-tapping country/folk number. Costello originally wrote the song for Johnny Cash, who recorded it on his 1990 album “Boom Chicka Boom.” The signature Cash sound is still present here, via the bouncy, almost mechanical rhythm guitar. The deep smoothness of Costello’s voice works well against the boom-chicka-boom backdrop.

“Complicated Shadows” represents the closest thing to modern rock on the collection. Costello’s manages to tow the line between blues, rock and country amid the southern elements present.

The tinge of rock is not an overwhelming surprise, considering the track is a country-fried re-working of a song of the same name from a previous release.

Although the country presence often times works here, it quickly sounds repetitive and somewhat contrived. Many tracks seem like filler or old works he just wanted to finally put on a disc.

Whatever the premise, Elvis Costello still shows his ability to reinvent himself as he chooses.