New Lace Sleeves
Elvis Costello · Elvis Costello Limited Edition Collector's Box Set - Amazon.Com E [2007]
Shy apologies and polite regrets
Slow dances that left no warning of
Outraged glances and indiscreet yawning
Good manners and bad breath get you nowhere
Even presidents have newspaper lovers
Ministers go crawling under covers
She's no angel
He's no saint
They're all covered up with white washed grease paint
And you say...
Chorus:
The teacher never told you anything but white lies
But you never see the lies
And you believe
Oh you know you have been captured
You feel so civilized
And you look so pretty in your new lace sleeves
The salty lips of the socialite sisters
With their continental fingers that have
never seen working blisters
Oh I know they've got their problems
I wish I was one of them
They say daddy's coming home soon
With his sergeant stripes and his Empire mug and spoon
No more fast buck
And when are they gonna learn their lesson
When are they gonna stop all of these victory processions
And you say...
Chorus
New Lace Sleeves
New Lace Sleeves stands as a defining track from Elvis Costello's early punk and new wave period, showcasing his signature blend of sharp wit and melodic complexity. Recorded during a prolific era that produced classics like Alison and Watch Your Step, the song exemplifies Costello's ability to weave intricate social commentary into accessible pop structures. The recording captures the raw energy and sophisticated songwriting that established him as a major force in British rock. As part of his extensive discography, this work highlights the artist's evolution from a brash newcomer to a respected songwriter capable of balancing aggression with subtlety. The track remains a testament to the enduring quality of his early catalog, offering listeners a glimpse into the creative intensity that characterized his formative years in the music industry.