Wise Up Ghost

The name of this collaboration album between Elvis Costello and the Roots is an honest and straightforward title.

“Wise Up Ghost and Other Songs” is indeed the home to “Wise Up Ghost,” a creepy-good and ethereal song late in the album. It’s also home to some similar, kind of good but not breathtaking, tracks.

While this collaboration between two celebrated artists should play like a match made in alternative music heaven, too much of “Wise Up Ghosts and Other Songs” just fails to sound distinctive.

It’s the kind of record where the track ends and you don’t pay much attention. You could be listening to “Walk Us Uptown,” a rather funky romp with some great brass themes, and without a thought be another four tracks into the album.

It’s undeniable that Costello and the Roots are phenomenally talented artists who know their way around their instruments and a recording studio. You just find yourself seeking innovation on an album that doesn’t feel like it’s breaking any new territory.

The oasis in the desert of this album is “Wise Up Ghost,” the rare song that is so mildly fearsome that the hair on your neck will stand. It’s a shame you’re made to amble through 10 other songs before you get to the cool stuff.

The talent on this record isn’t up for discussion. Everyone knows exactly what they’re doing and they know they’re doing it well. But that’s exactly why the envelope feels like it wasn’t pushed far enough and you’re craving more than what you were served.