This Year's Model; Blood & Chocolate; Brutal Youth (Elvis Costello) Youth (1986)

Of all of Rhino's idiosyncratically batched reissues of Costello's catalog -- each of which includes an extra disc of B sides, covers, and previously unreleased tracks -- this trio is easily the most raucous. ''Model,'' Costello's 1978 sophomore release, redefined the quirky troubadour as bilious rocker, a rowdy he'd reanimate on ''Blood,'' the 1986 follow-up to the rootsy King of America, and ''Youth,'' his 1994 reunion with backing band the Attractions. Together, they're a bonanza for devoted completists. For those alienated by his C&W and classical forays, they're a reminder of the black-hearted virtuosity they fell for in the first place. ''Model'' Grade: A+; ''Blood'' Grade: A; ''Youth'' Grade: A-

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