Armed Forces

Good

Armed Forces is a clever fusion of sharp political bite and irresistible pop melodies. The album balances urgency with polish, showcasing Costello’s knack for both wit and hooks. While not flawless, its mix of energy and intelligence makes it a standout in his catalog.

Costello number 4 and I feel the same about this one as his previous albums, there are bits that are quite good but the singing and general musical style grate too quickly and I've had enough before the album is over. Think I recognised a couple of these but I kept second guessing myself as another song would come along and I'd think maybe it's this one I actually know. So a bit of sameyness across the album too. There were a couple of decent songs, there was one with a few discordant bits that sort of reminded me of that field music album Graeme recommended. Overall though pretty forgettable, 2.5.

My music tastes must have changed. I really enjoyed this - would argue many of the same types of songs over and over, there's no real distinction between a lot of them. Accidents Will Happen and Oliver's Army were particular stand-outs, and I gooned myself over Goon Squad. Listened twice, perhaps by accident. Can't complain. Good album.

More Elvis Costello! This guy likes him, I kinda agree mostly too, but it's becoming clear that I don't like him as much as I thought I did after blood and chocolate. Incidentally, that is the lowest rated of his albums we've had before, yet it was my favourite.... This was all ok too, bit more poppy than what I prefer. I assume "Oliver's army" is his most famous track, it's weirdly classed as a Christmas song in my head, not sure why. Good pop song about a serious topic. Sunday best was pretty good too. As was the final track. 3, which I've given every one of his albums as I messed up be giving blood and chocolate a 3 and that being my favourite

This album is very fun and boppy with solid performances. My only issue is that I genuinely don’t like Elvis Costello’s voice. Tried not to hold it against the album itself, but that definitely has an impact in my enjoyment.

Pretty cool. Old school vibes.

I like it when Bill Murray sang the karaoke version of "What's so funny 'bout peace, love and understanding" in Lost in Translation. That song alone bumps this up to a 3/5.

I still don't get it with this Elvis.

LIke it quite a bit Mellow.

I quite liked it, very rock and rolly, very fun. I didn't realise I hadn't got a clear image of Elvis Costello's sound and production style.

Not sure why I never really listened to Elvis Costello until recently. Everything I've heard of his has been great.

meh, 3 stars

decent album

I think this is my favorite Costello. Every song is perfectly catchy, with an amazing hook. “Two Little Hitlers” has possibly the best chorus switch up of all time. The drums are so good. It’s such a fucking groove.

Yeah this is another Elvis Costello album alright. Not that it's a bad album or anything, he's just always kind of the same on everything. And that's fine if that's your thing. 🥰

A decent album, a couple of well-known tracks that are good, but also plenty of filler.

Album Art review - Wow!! impressive imagery, love this really. 8/10 Album - don't remember this one, but it is certainly an Elvis Costello album.

His voice still bugs me the slightest bit, but I guess that's just his style. Overall there wasn't anything weird on the album but there also wasn't anything great.

oof I just can't take this.

I still think This Year’s Model is his masterpiece. Everything else is meh.

frekar generic rock bara.... finnst röddin hans costello ekki frábær fyrir svona tónlist

Thought that it was a good listen. Hear a mix of Dylan and Tom Petty in his vocal, and also heard lots of Beatles references within the songs like “Birthday” and “Carry that Weight” which was pretty cool. Each track felt unique and different from what came before.

Oliver's Army is a great song. The rest is also good, if a bit forgettable

The post punk period in the UK was an extraordinary blast of creativity. Where most punks were largely apolitical (the Clash notwithstanding), Costello's songwriting was a blast against the recently elected Thatcher government as well as covering traditional topics of love and relationships. It's impossible to discuss this album without mentioning the use of the N word in Olivers Army, and anti-war song told both from the perspective of a soldier serving in Northern Ireland during the troubles and the racist politicians who sent him there to die. Costello was well known for being deliberately provocative (and indeed got into considerable trouble on a tour of the USA around this time by running his mouth off in an argument with Stephen Stills). He doesn't use the word in this song any more but the fact that it was broadcast on Radio One and Top of the Pops at the time without comment says more about British attitudes at the time than it does about Costello himself. Other than that, this is a fine collection of songs that have largely stood the test of time.

Another name I'm familiar with, but I would have a hard time remembering listening anything from him, so happy to discover an album from the guy... and realizing that I don't really dig his music. It hasn't really aged (good) but it's really standard forgettable pop rock to my ears (let's say I'm not really sensitive to this specific (sub)genre).

This was a good album, but I feel like he has better. It did feel like it was all over the place, which is better than sounding all the same so rounding up.

It seems most times that I listen to Elvis Costello the songs get stuck in my head

I really didn't care for this one as much as his other stuff. Just didn't really do it for me. The lyrics were solid in places but nothing blew me away. Also his voice kinda annoyed me on this one. I can do his voice for about half an hour, but the extra 10 minutes had me a little annoyed.

catchy hooks, interesting lyrics, and short tracks that don't drone on too long. solid album

Love this.

The start caught me off guard

Not for me

Better than the last costello

I think it says a lot that the only part of this album I actually found memorable is when he says the n word.

Some of the songs were bops, but this isn’t really my kind of thing.

Monotono

What's so funny about peace, love and understanding? A really classic 50s vibe with an 80s sheen. Really nice album. Very rock n roll

Having had the first 2 Elvis Costello albums recently, here he seems to turn up the poppier sound and fade out any of the punk influence. And the results are worse this time around than previously - it doesn’t have the energy or excitement, just a lot of lyrics. Unfortunately, I found the hooks to be less catchy and memorable in this album than the first 2. The sound is perhaps richer (more synths filling little holes, a bit more dynamics), but also less interesting in my opinion. Some fine stuff but so far at the bottom of the 3 Elvis Costello’s I’ve been assigned.

I liked this better than the other Elvis Costello album

Elvis Costello still sucks

More Costello. It wouldn't be as bad if this was the first album, but why is he so overrepresented on this list. This is another utterly forgettable album which I will never return to. 2/5

Börjar otippat bra, sen lite jobbig och repetitiv.

There are some good songs on this record- I just don’t dig Elvis’s voice. He has this emphatic whine that just grates on me. By the last four songs I was just done with this guy. I understand he’s a critics’ darling because his lyrics are a bit more literate than your average bear, but come on. Also- how does this guy get in the same bin as Patti Smith, Television, the Ramones? This is all pure pop! And I know this is him stepping towards a poppier sound, but- are the records before this that adventurous? Anyways. It’s fine. Except for the whine. TWO STARS

I can’t really point out any stand out tracks here. There are Elvis Costello releases that are better than this

It was good.

i love Elvis Costello. this album is pretty solid, but uhhhhhhhhh it’s not My Aim Is True or This Years Model. doesn’t make it a bad album, just hard to follow those two records.

While not my favorite Costello record, it’s a banger. Specifically the middle of the album from Green Shirt through Busy Bodies. Pure gold. Of course, the Nick Lowe written Whats So Funny (‘bout Peace, Love & Understanding) ending the album and Accidents Will Happen at the beginning are perfect bookends. Where are the strong? Who are the trusted? Where is the harmony?

Original and thought provoking songwriting and arrangement. You can hear Elvis’s progression from his previous 2 records. More “adult” if you will, though still just as bitter. That being said, for Elvis Costello, there’s a few too many songs on this album that just don’t excite me that much, but it could just be a slow burner for me.

Det är klart att Elvis Costello är fräck och kan snickra låtar, men inte riktigt för mig.

I expected this album to be amazing, but I was wrong. "Armed Forces" turned out to be an average album. I still liked some of the songs on it. "Big Boys" is one of those tracks. I'm disappointed by Costello, who has multiple albums on this list. 3 stars for "Armed Forces".

I don't know if I enjoyed this one as much as I enjoyed This Year's Model. I don't feel like the songwriting was as crisp, though that is a high bar to clear for Costello. There are six Elvis Costello albums in this book and I think 4-5 would have sufficed. Hard to say whether I would have cut this one or not. This is the fourth Costello album I have gotten and I liked it better than Blood and Chocolate. Armed Forces is a record where Costello leaned into the "pop" sound a little bit more than he had in the past. Overall, I am still happy that I get to hear these Elvis Costello albums and continue to be exposed to his music. My favorite tracks were: Accidents Will Happen Oliver's Army Big Boys Green Shirt Party Girl Busy Bodies Two Little Hitlers What's So Funny 'Bout Peace, Love and Understanding

Elvis Costello has some great tunes and the really great ones become earworms. He had a great presence within the early MTV new wavy scene, but as a full project, I don't think it's entirely strong. Side A offers up the strongest that this record has and Side B sort of lies low. I'll always love him for the SNL incident though (6/10, 3/5 on this scale)

1* straszny crap

One of EC’s finest achievements. And to be honest, his discography is loaded with them.

A more accessible pop album from EC&TA which was big at school in '79. Some very catchy singles in Accidents Will Happen and Oliver's Army with nice layered melodies. A good listen this one.

Its not brilliant but evokes such nostalgia for me. Can hear the Nick Lowe in there.

Oliver's Army la la la la shoooooot the whole day down. Always get those two confused. Sunday's Best because he doesn't like Mondays. They were either in cahoots or competition. A lot of this sounds like someone practising vowel sounds to a cute litte tune. Ahhehhihhhohhuuuhhh. Sounds like I hate it, but I don't. It was alright, if a bit long. Unfortunately, instead of humming Costello all day, I had I Don't Like Mondays wedged in my head.

This album really had me up until they had to go and say the n word 🥸

7/10

Hard to see past the conflict of 'Oliver's Army' - what has the makings of a brilliant song is tainted. And then he spends the last track of the album ruminating over peace, love and understanding. Well, there you go. It was a better album than the last Elvis Costello album on the list. But, reviews suggest I've got quite a bit more to endure.

actually one of the most horrid listens of my life, thank you so much for this experience

GOON SQUAD

Early stuff.

I was excited to get this, as I've seen this LP hundreds of time in my dad's collection, and I always thought Elvis Costello was an artist that I should be paying more attention to. But truth be told, although this album is nice to listen, I was wondering if it's still relevant in 2025. Of course it has good songs, and the punkish pop approach is cool, but doesn't sound so memorable. I really liked that although being from 79 it already has a 80s sound, which can be perceived in the structure of songs like Goon Squad or Moods for Moderns. Also, elephants are cool! Listening notes: Canciones como Goon Squad o Moods for Moderns me han sonado en estructura a hard rock 80tero, lo cual está guay. Por lo demás un disco que se puede oir pero no sé yo qué vigencia tiene en 2025.

Sudden n-word, the infamous goon squad, 2 little austrian painters. And of course random elephants on the cover. ABSOLUTE CINEMA

p438. 1979. 2 stars. Occasional glimpse of brilliance swamped by filler and lacklustre tunes. Still sharp lyrically, but not sure why this on the list.

Listened to this album while detailing cart 51 at the Ranch. Good vibe, great way to start the 1001 albums.

Solid sound but gets a bit repetitive although it's not a full length album, I think it could be a bit shorter, 30 minutes maybe.

Dette har nok inspirert mye av musikken jeg liker i dag. Men også noe som er mindre kult på plata, men overall positiv.

Ahead of its time rock with 50’s pop style vocals that are very rocking. His voice reminds me very much of Lenny Kravitz.

Wieder basic rock :/… 4/10

Every song sounds the same.

5/10

favs: - (what’s so funny’bout) peace, love and understanding - goon squad

🎵 Day 34 / Elvis Costello & The Attractions – Armed Forces (1979) 🗯 New wave with post-punk edges, sharpened into something shinier — Armed Forces was Costello’s most commercial-leaning record to date. You can hear the ambition in every tightly-wound verse, every hook polished to a dangerous edge. He sounds hungry, like a man chasing the big time without letting go of his bite. The songs are consistently strong, even if the outright “hits” aren’t everywhere — though it does contain “Oliver’s Army,” a melody so breezy it could play in a shopping mall without anyone noticing it’s about imperialism. The Attractions are in lethal form here, blending wiry guitars with wiry nerves, organs buzzing in the corners like fluorescent lights about to pop. There’s a precision to the playing that makes even the jauntiest moments feel tense. It’s music that wants to charm you, but it’s still watching you and your every move. Verdict: Excellent (ambitious and lean — not quite a gateway album, but close) For fans of: The Jam, Graham Parker, Joe Jackson, sharp suits with sharper tongues

a sleek juggernaut of an album, packed with Costello's dense wordplay, puns, allusions - opening cheekily with the line "Oh, I just don't know where to begin" and motoring through the many layers of Oliver's Army.

One of the best albums of all time. The Attractions firing on all cylinders, Steve Naive especially. I just don't know where to begin... Read Franklin Bruno's brilliant 33 1/3 book on Armed Forces.

Ah.... fine. His voice is a bit weird / annoying after a while. Can't remember any of the songs.

I'm not the biggest Elvis Costello fan, but it is a solid album with some classics from him that I do enjoy.

Don’t fuck with Elvis Costello

I have never gotten into Elvis Costello - his singing instantly puts on edge. This album was no exception. Sorry, I just get the attraction…

nice enough but I don't really like his voice

2.0

Hard Pass

> the Beatles

Smart lyrics and sharp instrumentals

3-4

3 08.03.2025

Bro said the N word 😳

I need to listen to this album more, could be a 5 for me eventually.

4.5

Still not sold on Elvis Costello, but I did like this one Quite frankly my favorite song on the album was the track added to the US version, and it wasn't even written by him (7.63) ★★★½

It's good, but I don't really get the hype with Elvis Costello. 3.5 stars

Armed Forces is a really good album that is ridiculously front-loaded. Side one is nearly perfect, however, I think it falls apart a bit in the second half -- the run of "Sunday's Best" (rightfully scrapped on the original U.S. release) through "Chemistry Class" feels like some serious filler. Depending on whether "What's So Funny 'Bout Peace, Love, and Understanding" is part of the tracklist, it's somewhat redeemed in the end. Standouts for me are "Accidents Will Happen", "Oliver's Army", "Big Boys", and if it counts, "What's So Funny 'Bout Peace, Love, and Understanding". 4 stars.

4.5

An incredibly well equipped Elvis Costello album, certainly one where he is at the peak of his commercial powers and is at his imperious poppy best. Album opens with a string of absolutely divine new-wavy pearls - Accidents Will Happen and Senior Service deserve to be decorated with the highest military honors. As does Oliver’s Army which shot in at number 2 with a bullet, only kept off the top of the charts by Gloria Gaynor’s I Will Survive and also Bee Gees’ Tragedy which sums up the situation very well in just one song title. Despite the rushing stampede of elephant-sized brilliant tracks at the start, there is enough firepower left over the course of the album that make it a very strong overall listen. The ‘armed forces’ album concept is kept to very diligently, making for a ship-shape, tight unit and there are some other grand album highlights like gargantuan barnstormer Goon Squad and sensual, shivery Green Shirt. Soon after the album on a tour in America, Elvis Costello got involved in a drunken brawl where he called James Brown a jive-arsed n something and Ray Charles a blind ignorant n something in a way to bring his conversation with Bonnie Bramlett to a swift close and then his chart fortunes basically were not quite the same after that. Despite this he did go on to achieve some more artistic highs such as collabing on an album with Burt Bacharach, singing on the Notting Hill and Austin Powers 2 movie and making about 50 other Elvis Costello albums that are all in this list.

Before this album, I honestly couldn't name a single Elvis Costello song. It wasn't what I expected, but that's not a bad thing. "Accidents Will Happen" is an excellent opener that immediately grabs your attention. "Oliver's Army" manages to tackle a pretty serious subject in a surprisingly fun and catchy way. Costello clearly knows how to mix clever songwriting with memorable hooks. From what I've read, his previous two albums were more punk rock influenced, so I'm definitely interested in checking those out next.

Really bad

Good old rock n roll from across the pond. Nothin fancy, just a good beat and happy tapping toe.

It's ok

How can an album with the words “Armed Forces”, "Elvis" and “Attraction” in the title be so unexciting?

I gave it a chance, it's just not my thing!

Not great

Hate this guy, can't believe he has this many entries. Lifetime dungeon sentence Will I listen to again: 0%

Fresh

Cover 7 Great songs, great album. No skips for me. Musicianship is average/ decent (nothing spectacular) but lyrics are good. The overall effect however is a great album

I'm honestly unsure how I feel about Elvis Costello. I got another one of his albums before, and ended up turning it off because I felt so unsure about if I liked it or not, and that was honestly distracting to me. Listening to this album now once through leaves me with more questions than answers. I'm giving this a tentative 3/5, since it's not bad, I just......don't know if I get it? I feel like there is a lot going on with this album, especially in the lyrics, that I need to look into more. I will definitely be coming back to this so I can write a real review.

Decent, but not something which will stick with me for too long. I think it lacks the interesting musicality of some of his other albums.

Just can’t enjoy his music. Might be his grating voice.

Fun album

It's alright—it's decent—I’m just never revisiting any of those songs if I'm being honest, much less the album. (Unlike This Year's Model and My Aim Is True, which both had at least one or two bangers that I repeated for a good while.)

Not my jam, neither the music nor his voice.

This was torture

Surely I must be coming to the end of the multitude of Elvis Costello albums in this list? I’ve had a few now but this is without doubt my favourite and arguably his best album. I bought this on album and because of the nature of the cover stuck it straight into a plastic sleeve where it has remained now for 46 years in pristine condition. Whilst I really liked the album on release I did tire of it in later years so I have rarely played it. But today I listened to it with fresh ears and was able to remember why I was drawn to it originally. Lots of hit singles which everyone was playing and making EC a constant on Top of The Pops. Best track for me is Green Shirt which still sounds fresh and original today. Streamed it through a few times but resisted getting my LP out of its cocoon. But writing about it now I think I must at least remind myself of the album cover which is superb. 4/5 16/7/25

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Wow, my second Costello record in three days and my third overall on this list out of 70 so far, perhaps this one will impress beyond what the others have left me with…Arm me with an entertaining musical experience Elvis! Elvis Costello’s Armed Forces is a dazzling collision of pop sensibility and political paranoia. Released at the close of the 1970s, it feels like a brilliant, bitter postcard from the edge of a world unraveling — simultaneously accessible and subversive. Musically, it’s lush, sophisticated, and irresistibly catchy. Songs wrap critiques of British imperialism in glossy pop melodies that could have been ripped from an ABBA record — if ABBA were furious and politically incensed. The Attractions are in peak form, especially Steve Nieve on keyboards, giving the album its signature new wave sheen. Lyrically, Costello is razor-sharp, blending wit, cynicism, and double meanings. He’s writing about war, manipulation, fascism, and emotional warfare — but with such charm and wordplay that it’s often only after multiple listens that the darker themes sink in. Tracks are paranoid, twitchy masterpieces of menace and mood. 🎧 Classic Track: Accidents Will Happen 🎧 Deep Cut Gem: Party Girl 🎧 Personal Favorite: Green Shirt 🎧 Memorable Standout: Moods for Moderns Many others have stated their admiration for Oliver’s Army, however to me it is the less accessible tracks that really impress here. Enriched by top notch production, tight musicianship and confident songwriting, this album outshines Costello’s previous two releases, which are quite overrated in my humble opinion. 🖼️ Album Artwork: As every force of nature as the tunes 🐘🎵 This Year’s Model was angry and raw, Armed Forces is polished and dangerous — a wolf in pop clothing. It’s not just one of Costello’s best albums, it’s one of the smartest pop records of its era.

It’s ok, isn’t it? Like his debut better, though. Oliver’s Army and Goon Squad are good. And mots of great bassing all over

It’s a good record, which is surprising because I didn’t think I would like Elvis Costello… but I don’t even know why. It’s some good rock and roll that you just don’t see today. It’s good!

Sounds like Elton John, but I like Elton John better. Witty lyrics and geek sound. Could be an album that I learn to love

ruim

It’s fine

His usual flawless songwriting, performance and production

Nicht so für mich, der englische Pop

Не помню ни одной песни, но помню, что очень устал. Лучшая песня - Chemistry Class.

I’m a sucker for a strong melody, strong tunes with a strong message

Are people here really getting filtered by Elvis Costello? This is perfectly solid music, and I'd take it over any of the endless Bowie slop this list loves.

Still a classic all these years later.

By far the best of his albums on this list. Accidents will happen and Olivers Army being the standout tracks.

Bit of filler here n there but a few srltandout tracks. And Oliver's Army is, to this day, a stone cold banger.

I PROMISE TO LIKE ELVIS COSTELLO IF YOU STOP SENDING ME HIS ALBUMS. Its not like they're terrible albums, but they're kind of just so much nothing over and over. The most amazing thing was that 1 song had almost 50 million listens and it didnt seem to have anything setting itself apart from the songs with less than 1 million listens. Anyway. Its fine. But I dont need anymore of his albums. Thanks.

Not bad, not my favorite Elvis Costello. Olivers Army is the standout to me. 1-2 songs sounded too much like circus music

Don't like his voice

Boring

yuck

Well, he's nothing if not consistent. This is a 3. Again.

Costello just has never been my idea of a good time - some good riffs and good lyrics but this is a skip.

Decent album. Liked listening to it, but didnt love it Standout songs: Green Shirt

I like it

As I expected of Costello. Pretty dry…

A letdown from his first 2 albums, but still pretty good.

Costello album #3 for me. I still do absolutely not get people's fascination with him, nor why on earth he has three albums on this list.

not as bad as expected, but "goon squad" is unintentionally hilarious in 2025.

Good album Costello is a great composer and musician and overall artist that anything he records is good but even if all songs are good doesnt make it a great album not even his best one yet better than most albums for most bands.

I could be wrong but it seems that Mr. Costello really likes clenching his throat when he sings. And he focused so much on consonants. Sounds a bit contrived. Music wise, it’s ok. They’re making efforts to entertain.

I was leaning towards a 3 because I think he does actually understand how to make music but after him dropping an n-bomb in what I am sure he thinks is a Bob Dylan-Hurricane way, and Two Little Hitlers I have to be critical. At some point the music has to match the lyrics, and if your point in 2020 is that there are two Hitler-sequel figures who are bound to make on another snap and do something horrible, maybe play a fucking minor chord eventually. I did actually enjoy Green Shirt enough to save it. I found it catchy but I think it’s an outlier because I find most of his other stuff as over crafted. I think being a prolific songwriter comes with a cost, and that cost is that not all songs are good songs. I’m not sure if he writes anything and doesn’t produce it to a full track and through it on an album. Per Google he’s got 51 albums. That’s too many albums.

man, for as much flak that i've given Elvis Costello, I actually had more fun with this album than i thought. the poppy departure from his hyper-stylized punk i think worked in his favor, and some of the songs i found myself jamming to. probably a high 2, low 3. dont really see myself going back to it... but i guess theres a higher chance with this album versus any other we have listened to

I’m not entirely sure about the need for this many Elvis Costello albums, maybe I’m just ignorant but it seems like a lot. Pretty much par for the course with his music: sounds like the guy from That Thing You Do and there’s like two songs of his that I like, neither being on this album. Between a two and a three, I’ll go three to keep my personal average at a 2.5.

Not the worst, but still not a Costello fan.

I'm finding Elvis Costello increasingly "decent". He's a very "just alright" artist. Third album of his and it pretty much follows in the same vein. There's the odd really good track (this one's being 'Oliver's Army') followed by some "just alright" tracks. There's a pretty cool idea and some more "just alright". There's a catchy hook or melody followed by something "just alright" yet again. If you took all the best bits from Costello's first three albums (the three that I have now reviewed) you'd probably have yourself a damn good five star rated classic. Unfortunately I find him a little hit and miss to be considered a great and this album is no exception. His records are pretty fun, easy to listen to and at times fairly interesting, but for me personally, he's definitely someone you have to be in the mood to listen to.

Meh. I'm starting to see that Elvis Costello is overrated.

najbolja pjesma "oliver's army" u kojoj me podsjetio na b. dilana ne samo glasom kao u ostalim pjesmama nego i odabirom određene riječi koju je rimovao sa trigger hahahaha. ovo ostalo je čisti rok prosjek, kao i njegov album koji sam prethodno slušao. ni vanredno dobro ni vanredno loše. al jako fora omot! slonovi!

♫ Listening to "Party Girl" by Elvis Costello & The Attractions (Armed Forces (Remastered 2020), 1979) ♫

Its alright

This has been part of my collection for a long while, and I must admit I am a big fan of Elvis Costello and this album is the reason why. Po friendly angry young man is how I'd describe his work. "Olivers Army" is a perfect example. This is pop at its best, smart lyrics, cutting, even venomous delivery and catchy to boot.

Real meh

It was ok

this was fine. i'm not going to be clamoring for more elvis costello. his voice is kind of cool?

Dude is a hack. He even had to steal his stage name from a better performer. Critics are distracted by his ability to turn a phrase (because they too fancy themselves writers) and are deaf or simply unwilling to acknowledge that Elvis Costello cannot write a solid hook to save himself.

This was my first time listening to Elvis Costello. While I appreciated the variety of sound on this album, I found the vocals really hard to listen to, which is why I wasn't able to make it all the way through the album. Bonus points for beautiful compositions though.

2.6 3x catch up week of 11/17 catchy and different than i expected

Hade förväntningar. Det var pop. Första låten var bra. Hörde jag n ordet. Det var konstigt.

Jaha..Costello har visat sig rätt medioker. Denna skiva var dock snäppet bättre än tidigare. Dock inte upp till en fyra.

Det är Elvis Costello, det är samma som vanligt, det är en trea, det är lika obegripligt att han har så många plattor på den här listan.

Still not a big Costello fan. Maybe I will never become one. But it’s ok to listen to his records once.

Some decent tracks but didn't grab me

June 21 starting. 1. Accidents. Ya el intro me pareció gay. Not my thing tiene pinta. Hope it changes my mind. El tipo suena a Lenny Kravitz. La música está kinda boring tho' 2. Boring, weird, didn't enjoy. 3. So ladilla. Skipped. 4. Big Boys. Una mierda 5. Igual que este, shite. 6. Mano... No me gusta ninguno so far, que chimbo. 7. Fuck this. Skipping violently a partir de ahora, pura mierda. 8. Busy Bodies. Fuck you Costello. I'm hating your music. 9. Sunday's Best. ¿Música de carnival? Mámalo, no te sale nada. 10. Moods for Moderns. Funky, fun, tripeable. Liked. 11. Good song that I skipped. 12. Funky one, liked. 13. Mierda men. Que waste of time. Odié this album as fuck. 0

Another album by Elvis Costello to feel I should like more than I did… really like Oliver’s Army but the rest didn’t leave much trace. 3.5.

Not by thing.

It's some of the music of all time

What is this. So annoyed by his voice, but also it changes, sound is upbeat fun pop that could be old or new, unique lyrics that don’t match the sound, but also some stuff you wouldn’t say anymore

Great album

Great album.Some classic songs

I feel like I should like this more, but it's just not clicking; Except Oliver's Army - great song.

I love Elvis Costello, but I can’t tell the difference from most songs if I’m not paying close enough attention.

I just hate this band. Twee and annoyingly keyboard heavy- and Costello has a grating, thin voice. some of the songwriting is smart- if a whole different band arranged and performed it maybe, but I'm not going to listen to any Costello going forward.

Not bad. The two hits are, of course, the highlights. Some of the other tracks are worthy of repeat listening, but I don't feel the need to add this album to my collection.

This sound got really tiring for me

Not my favorite of his but it does have a couple of his classic songs.

This shit is so ass

this isn't the worst of the otherwise barely distinguishable 300 Elvis Costello albums on this list, but it *is* the only one where he says the n-word!

Although a well-known artist, I had never heard the album before. I expected more from it

Stone cold angsty bangers from the Prince of dysfunctional relationships. It’s a perfect album but marking down a point because, as Elvis, recognized, you can’t say the n-word as a white person, even if it thematically fits the song.

Elvis Costello is one of those artists that I'm not sure what to think of. The music itself is okay, kinda goofy and quirky, but I suppose I just have a hard time taking it seriously. And maybe that's it - I'm not supposed to take it seriously. The music is poppy, boppy and whimsical. Vocals are easy enough on the ears, but he has a tone in his voice that's just slightly off-putting. This is...ok.

Great

Really good

Don't ask me why there are six Elvis Costello albums on this list. Now, I like the guy just fine, myself. I'm a huge fan of his first album, MY AIM IS TRUE; I've come around to really liking his second, THIS YEAR'S MODEL; and I've been... Mostly fine on the other two my group has gotten before now, BRUTAL YOUTH and IMPERIAL BEDROOM. And heck, I really love the song that was thrown on at the end as a bonus closer, "(What's So Funny 'Bout) Peace, Love And Understanding". You've gotta understand, I'm far from these people who'll give a Costello album a 1 on sight because they're just that sick of him. But six albums. **Six**. I feel like at this point in the process I should be able to understand why he's been allowed to have so many (consider: just one under Bob Dylan)... But I'unno, man — I'm still not convinced that he shouldn't have been allowed only, like, maybe three, max. So let's talk about the third I'd include in those three and see if even that's one too many or not. Yes, ARMED FORCES. Alongside MY AIM IS TRUE and THIS YEAR MODEL, I've always considered it one of his big three albums; just the absolute pinnacle of his creative output. Peaked early, y'know? I mean, for sure, in my eyes, they've been the only three I've ever really considered. And do I have this opinion largely just because all of them were on the 2012 ROLLING STONE 500 list? Well... Y'see, I have genuinely loved MY AIM IS TRUE for years, ever since I first picked it up on vinyl. Just a very lovely slice of relaxed, pub-y New Wave that I can and have thrown on at any time. But the other two, though? Eh. They were just... Different in ways I couldn't really articulate at the time, and I didn't have much too much interest in figuring out why. So until I joined a group following this list, I haven't really found an excuse to go back to 'em... And, hey, I've found a new appreciation for THIS YEAR'S MODEL and The Attractions, and how much harder and punkier they are than MY AIM IS TRUE and The Clovers. So, hey, chances are it'll happen with ARMED FORCES, too, and I'll confirm my belief that it's a big three contender — right? Well, yeah. I'd say that, and pretty happily, that it very much did on both fronts. Though, at the same, I wanna give it the caveat that while it **is** big three, it'd for sure be the third out of three, if you know what I mean. ARMED FORCES strikes me as trying to strike the balance between MY AIM IS TRUE and THIS YEAR'S MODEL, and doing so by way of pop. It retains a fair bit of the New Wave power and drive that THIS YEAR'S MODEL, though a fair bit more relaxed, in a vein like MY AIM IS TRUE. There's no "Pump It Up" here, y'know? Just as there's no "Less Than Zero". These are all good and solid tunes, though. The stuff on the back half doesn't do as much for me as the stuff up front does, but all the same. I really love that "Dancing Queen"-inspired piano on "Oliver's Army"; it's a nice little bit. It doesn't distract all that much from the N-word present there as well, but y'know. Like, I'unno. As an attempt to pop out the sound, I appreciate it — I **do** love me a good bit of pop sounds sometimes, let me tell you. It's just that, on the whole, it doesn't compare 100% to how hard THIS YEAR'S MODEL goes or just how nice MY AIM IS TRUE could sound. Still overall makes it the third best Costello album I've heard so far, and after IMPERIAL BEDROOMS it confirms that I can and do like albums outside of his debut. Unless BLOOD AND CHOCOLATE can convince me otherwise, it's probably the most recent Costello album I'd openly recommend to people. Like, I've seen people razz this thing just for being their own fifth Costello album, or maybe their sixth, and if they wanna give a 1 largely on that front... Well, that's their prerogative, but to me, well, they're missin' out a little. Like, realistically, this thing teetering closer to a 4 than it's not, but it's a 5 on the granted benefit that I probably will come to adore side two just as much. So, what's so funny about Elvis Costello having six albums on here? Heck if I can tell, but at least I know that for his first three records, he just couldn't miss. Indeed: his aim was true.

More of the typical early Costello sound, but a bit more commercialized compared to something like My Aim Is True. Solid 4 Stars.

I’m at a 4. This is our fifth Elvis Costello album, so I’m running out of words to really say about the guy. If you’ve heard “My Aim Is True”, “This Year’s Model”, or “Imperial Bedroom”, then this is generally more of the same, with a little more of a pop lean as opposed to the sort of new wave-y stuff that was more prevalent on the former two. Seriously, I can’t think of anything more to say: an Elvis Costello album at this point feels like a pretty nice slice of pizza. It’s some fine rock music that generally hits pretty well, with a few tracks that just… don’t. This is a totally competent 40 minute album that never really had a bad track, thankfully. If someone wanted to give this a 5, I wouldn’t even blame them. To my ears, there’s just a couple of mediocre tracks, some flatter instrumentals, a less engaged vocal performance at times, & one baffling (if historically relevant, I suppose) use of the N-word as it relates to Northern Ireland’s struggles around this time. I won’t defend it, but I don’t think I have enough historical knowledge to really indict the guy for it. Someone else can tear into him if they want, it just makes “Oliver’s Army” a really awkward listen otherwise. There are a few really standout tracks to me: “Party Girl”, “Goon Squad”, & “(What's So Funny 'Bout) Peace, Love, and Understanding” are my highlights here. “Oliver’s Army” would be there too, but… y’know. I do think about 9 of the 13 tracks have some really nice moments within each of them – “Big Boys,” “Green Shirt”, “Chemistry Class” & “Two Little Hitlers” are the ones that didn’t click for me, and even then, they’re not bad, they’re just flatter & don’t have anything that really perk the ears up past a passive listen. I got nothing more to add: good instrumentals from the Attractions, fine vocals from Elvis, and some solid songwriting for a pretty solid 40 minutes. Hence, a 4, but a recommended 4. P.S.: I like Elvis Costello, but I’m more just surprised that he has 6 albums on the list when it feels like you could really just get away with “My Aim Is True” & “Next Year’s Model” and be done with it.

This was a solid rock/new wave album! They definitely have a unique sound that sounds both modern and old fashioned at the same time. I would definitely pick this album up again and recommend others to check it out!

OH..?! When did this...? *Looks at the year*... well, Dylan also said it in Hurricane in '76, but 1979??? Ok yeah I get the kraftwerk influence

Genuinely awful. Sunday’s Best takes the crown as the new worst song I’ve ever listened to. It’s like a bizarro-world Beach Boys with Bob Dylan’s singing voice, horrifyingly bad.

Proof that just because things make musical-sounding noise and play in the same key, it doesn't necessarily add up to "music" Some lyrics are way too dark and serious for the stupidly poppy and upbeat instrumentation, like a guy who wasn't part of the band is reading from a lyric sheet for someone else's music and making up the tuneless "melody" as he goes

Good catchy tunes, thx !

less than a quarter of the way through the list and this is my fourth cost'lo record. it woulda been kinda cool to include some of his later experiments like his jazz stuff or his collab with the roots rather than include six of his pretty good pop albums. as always, there's a few very good songs and a few stinkers. i like the north american cover better.

Nothing really sparked my interest

How many albums does he have on this list. I'm going to give it a shot but that's what crossed my mind the second this came up. Maybe I've just gotten a lot close together. For the first time in my life I've heard an album and gone "did this influence the boomtown rats?". Seems like they were contemporaries to this album so it could go either way. This is pretty interesting on the sound choices. It's got an upbeat vibe while also trying to sound a bit more grandiose in moments. I like this more than some of his other work. I don't know if it's incredible but it's good and there's a lot it is doing right.

I have once again rolled my eyes seeing Elvis Costello pop up and slapped my forehead involuntarily. Okay, this one is softening me up. There is something here. Every listen I find something. I'm not sure personally that I can fully get over his voice, but this is a decent album. Poppy songs that don't over stay their welcome. I don't know why but Sunday's Best kept drilling into my brain. I briefly considered a 4. This is the first one of his that I can understand why it's on the list.

Fine.

I like their sound but all the songs sounded the same to me so I stopped listening halfway through

Loved this. Great album, great artist, unique sound & clever lyrics. I love Elvis C, also bc he & Krall were neighbors (down the street, not the hall) when I lived in Chelsea NYC, used to see him and Diana when she was pregnant, then with their new twins <3, they always looked so exhausted at the beginning LOL. The only other acceptable Elvis : )

I'm just not into his music. I think it's his voice, I don't know. I tried.

From frenetic post punk energy to pure pop confection. I preferred the first couple EC records when I was young and angsty. But how good does this album sound now? Percolating with energy but not as lacerating - the rhythm section especially are just locked in. Less visceral but still cutting (especially lyrically). Peerless (in his era) craftsmanship. A great record to bottom.

I might have groaned when I saw Elvis Costello pop up again today... after 'Brutal Youth' a few months ago, I decided that Elvis has a certain style that may be unique, but mostly comes off as annoying. My opinion hasn't really changed after giving this one a listen.' There are some highlights: "(What's so Funny 'Bout) Peace..." is a well-made and fun track, and I also liked the riff in "Goon Quad". The slurs in "Oliver's Army" came out of nowhere and are definitely an interesting songwriting decision, but I guess they work(?) As a whole, the production quality felt lacking, and Elvis's voice mostly came off as pretentious. Please, 1001 Albums, no more Elvis C...

First song and I was jamming. But it did get a little old. Idk. very modernist, but somehow not super deep? Good musical ideas but not explored enough for me.

Costello is the UK equivalent of Springsteen and Dylan, if you’re big into geopolitical boundaries. Without those boundaries, they are equals, in terms of sociopolitical awareness and song writing talent. Definitely still my favorite of all the Elvises.

MAYBE I would score this higher on another day, but not today. It was just okay.

This is an overall enjoyable album.

Not super impressive. Pretty basic for the time with no memorable tracks, other than the tracks with tasteless lyrics. His voice is sometimes good but not enough to keep this afloat. 2.4/5 - > 2/5

I've been a fan of Elvis Costello for a long time and this is one of the albums that got me into him. The first few songs are all standouts with Oliver's Army being the highlight (minus his slur). It loses some steam with the run between Goon Squad and Sunday's Best, but finishes very strongly with the final 4 songs. A special songwriter and has great melodies on this record. 8/10

I seriously got 4 fucking Elvis Costello albums before getting a single album by David Bowie, Bob Dylan or Stevie Wonder. You gotta be kidding me. I'm so sick of this guy, I can't take it anymore!! At least this one's got a cool album cover I guess. Favorite track: Oliver's Army 1.5/5

Laatste nummer wel lachen, maar ook veel echt heel mid. Leuke titels

Solid album!

This was a fine listen overall, but none of the Elvis Costello albums have sold me on the fact as to why he needed to be on this list 4 times at least so far. *sigh*

David Lee Roth was right! Needs more slurs!

Decent album altogether with one or two very good songs

I found this album pretty bland and I’m not convinced I’m a fan of Costello’s style of singing, a bit grating to me. Didn’t hate it but didn’t especially like it.

I feel this is solid music. Well written etc but its not a style i like and sadly the vocals dont resonnate with me so does cap it slightly. I have to be honest I think many people will disagree with me but less about the musicallity I just dont like it. Its boring and I would struggle if I had to listen to it again.

Elvis Costello is an artist that I respect without being a massive fan of his music. I always find the lyrics are the best element and can be unexpectedly challenging. They are politically hard hitting but wrapped up in such a palatable presentation they can sometimes run under the radar. Undeniably an influential album but not one for my personal favourites list.

I only really liked one track: "Accidents Will Happen". I was sort of into "Party Girl". The rest is just OK.

I struggle a bit with Costello. Something about his singing and songwriting just doesn't la d for me sometimes. That said, hearing an entire album of his music helps me frame it in a way that I can see the appeal more.

Sometimes he is pretentious and overbearing so I can only take it in small doses.

Another tough listen from Mr. Costello. Although at least this one was better produced than the other albums I've heard from him.

8/10

so annoying

My Aim is True is my favorite Elvis Costello album, but Armed Forces is great too. Catchy power pop with cynical, clever lyrics makes me happy.

I know people hate on how many albums he has on this list, but I think it’s deserved. One of the greatest song writers to ever do it. This isn’t my favorite of his, but still great.

Goon squad, huh?

I thought this was fine and also problematic

more like gooning squad also he said the nword but 'white n-words' ?? wtf is that bullshit . anyways i actually like ec so i was a bit appalled

There's something that doesn't work for me about Elvis Costello. His voice, maybe? His production choices? Is it the songwriting itself, which I've tried insisting to myself is good, actually? I do generally enjoy his dense, direct lyricism (left-field slur notwithstanding), but the retro-rock pastiche bothers me. It all just kind of rubs me the wrong way.

Declan loomed large in my musical history. From the first time I heard him and then with The Attractions I was hooked. And having Nick Lowe in the mix explained a lot.

Costello tried to fight Len’s 4th wife, Belinda. She was a hard lady. Very firm. She really stood right up to him. ‘Oh yeah Elvis, you and who’s army?’ Without a moments thought, Len piped in and said ‘Oliver’s?’ Diffused the situation in a second! We fell about laughing, Belinda almost soiled herself. But that’s Len Houmous for you - the quick witted hero! 3.2

was surprisingly good

This album cover looks like ai. The dude’s voice is painful, ew

Some stand out tracks that have stood the test of time but overall, fairly samey. Love piano in tracks and Oliver’s Army has that and really adds something

Not listened to the other EC albums yet but surprised how much I enjoyed this one. Even a couple of songs where his singing didn’t grate as much as usual.

A sort of nothing artist that doesn’t really add much to any music genre or offer anything meaningful in his songs. I quite liked bits of this album and think it deserves a generous 2.5

Always been a mystery to me who actually likes Elvis Costello, I mean someone must, as he’s been around forever, I've just never met anyone who does, or who’ll admit to it at least. Horrible record by the way, his voice…..

It’s kinda like the Tesco meal deal pasta salad of music, uninspiring and functional at best. Just too insipid to get exercised about really.

The Attractions are in top form here as a new wave rock outfit, and Elvis Costello gives them plenty to do. The arrangements are complex but the band manages to translate them into some very fun, accessible music. As is usually the case with Costello, there are a lot of words. Some lyrics are a snarky commentary on sex and relationships, some are more social commentary, and there are plenty of lyrics I’ve never understood (but sing along to anyways). I’ve heard this album dozens of times before but there were still lyrics I felt like I noticed for the first time today. The pacing and sequencing of this album is great. One song flows to the next and the energy is upbeat. There was clearly a lot of work that went into crafting the music and lyrics, but the end result is still an infectious, enjoyable, easy-to-listen album. Also, “(What’s So Funny ‘Bout) Peace, Love and Understanding” is a great song! 4.5

There's some solid tunes on this album with some smaller moments and shifts that do a good job at getting me to lean in, as is usual with his music. I definitely dug the political lyrics too, even if a random "n-word" caught me off guard. I can't help but feel a bit turned off to it though because Elvis Costello is so heavy on this list. I just checked and this is the 6th time that he's on it and he's a nice songwriter and all but do we say things like "The Beatles, Led Zeppelin, Michael Jackson, Elvis Costello?" The songs are good, the production is tight.. my expectations are just a bit off and I don't want to judge this based on that, but I don't know if I would have rated it too differently from this anyway. I do think that he's an artist where his stuff gets better the more you listen to it.

Armed Forces is a clever, well-crafted album that shows Elvis Costello refining his sound with more polish and pop sensibility, but it doesn’t always hit as hard as it wants to. The hooks are strong—Oliver’s Army and Accidents Will Happen are undeniably catchy—but the album sometimes feels a bit too slick for its own good, losing some of the rawness and urgency that made his earlier work stand out. There’s plenty to admire here: smart lyrics, tight performances, and a sharp ear for melody. But for all its intelligence and energy, it occasionally slips into sounding a little too controlled, a little too calculated. It’s a solid, enjoyable record—but not quite the knockout it often gets credit for.

peak costello, his songwriting would get even more intricate and allusive but here it’s the perfect marriage of new wave hooks & wordplay

Excellent album - and the impact is obvious.

Elvis had nearly fullly moved on from the punk music that defined his debut and was demonstrating his ear for amazing power pop/new wave. Working with Nick Lowe would help too.

A lovely musing on life and relationships.

I think overall I feel positive about Costello’s work, but I’m just not sure I would ever choose to listen to his albums outside of this list.

Complete

Hit singles, hidden gems, and an all-time great finishing track that leaves you wanting more. Costellos view of the world deserves to be heard

I really enjoy Elvis Costello. Great record. Like the elephants on the cover.

Outstanding Album. One of my favorite albums - possibly Top 10

Elvis rules!

Some dredging post pink with some new wave thrown in. More of a Pop sound by EC with some biting lyrics .

I just didn’t think there was anything special about this albun

the more Elvis Costello albums this book throws at me, the more I understand why it adores him. he was in the right place at the right time making just the right kind of music to appeal to the critics: a sharp blend of post-punk and new wave with nods to artists of yesteryear (the omnipresent Beatles being most prominent to my ears as an influence) and production work which, by Armed Forces, was beginning to resemble the maximalist sound pioneered by Phil Spector (listen to the layers upon layers of guitar coating "Chemistry Class," for instance). some of the best pop/rock songs I've ever heard are to be found here. the opener ("Accidents Will Happen") is surely the biggest standout; you just don't hear harmonic ingenuity like that on the charts these days. "Senior Service" is a great jam, too. "Oliver's Army" would've been my #1 pick easily, but Costello says the N-word on it (prefaced by the word "white"). I just don't understand the point he's trying to make there; even taking Costello's ironic character in mind, it just feels like pointless edginess. I have to dock the song a little bit as a result. the songs that point away from Costello's power pop origins and towards his interest in more traditional rock sounds are often the ones that go over the best. otherwise, I think I'd rather just put on This Year's Model again. decent 7/10.

He got 2 albums here?? Didn’t like it :( 2/5 🐘

NOT HIM AGAIN 😩 you should have seen my face the moment i pressed play on spotify 1,5/5

Armed Forces is less intense then the other Costello albums I’ve had but probably just as good. It’s more accessible, a little more layered and produced. While sounding poppy he’s singing about fascism. It’s political but also personal. The guys is a genius 8.4/10

Cynical pop loaded with catchy melodies.

Put a decent amount of effort to like This Years Model but the subsequent albums from him don't bother me.

Great album. Lovely to hear it again.

Thoughts before listening: This is one of Elvis' albums that I own, and I like it quite a bit. IMO his output fell off over the years, but the first 4 or 4 albums are great. This one is in that category. Review: Yeah this is a nice little album full of upbeat, catchy pop rock songs with a touch of pink attitude, but really more of a power pop sensibility. This is certainly not overly cheesy new wave, and I appreciate that Elvis avoided overproducing all his songs with synthesizers like many of his contemporaries, instead opting for a more basic rock sound. I'll give this one 4-stars.

This is probably the best Elvis Costello record on the list, or, at least, it was the one that I was the least annoyed by.

Another listen that ended up being unexpectedly cool and fun! Big fan of Costello’s writing in both melody and lyrics. Fun and upbeat tones that remind of a 50’s pop vibe, and are also weirdly modern sounding. Really liked the production and thought that over all it’s a very cohesive piece of work. Feels inventive and crazy and that adds a lot to the almost post-war music vibe that’s going on. Fav Track: Green Shirt

i found this whole thing pretty irritating tbh and i’m glad i don’t have to listen to it again

Did not enjoy. Boring, irritating and uses the N word for no apparent reason

It's ok

So done with Elvis Costello. Please no more

Now this for me is Costello and The Attractions high water mark. yes there are better songs, yes there is My Aim is True, but Armed Forces scratches that itch unlike any other

Who is this for?

Very good

Out of the three Elvis albums that I have had on this list, this is the only one I have heard before. It is also my least favorite, which is probably the reason I did not listen to the others. My favorite track on this is "Party Girl".

Cool songs

Fine, Elvis Costello kind of has an annoying voice. Decidedly uncool 70s music, fine instrumentals

What went wrong with that elephant on the right? Accidents Will Happen is a forgettable new wave/glam crossover. Senior Service picks up a little with some dub influences and a tense little synth arpeggio. Oliver's Army goes back to boring glam. And there it stays until Party Girl, which instead sounds like like Faith No More doing soft rock. The second half gets a bit better. You can hear whispers of the Clash through the album, it gets a bit stronger with Goon Squad. Busy Bodies has moments of angular breakdowns and Devo style synths popping up but also pretty boring rock bits. Sunday's Best marks a shift in the album stripping back the instrumentation and employing a disconcerting circus waltz rythym while Costello channels Mike Patton. Moods for Moderns maintains the nervous energy although its always just a bit too smooth for its own good. Any gains are lost with Chemistry Class, which is pure dad-rock. Two Little Hitlers is more ahead of its time 90's pop-rock (this isn't a compliment - I know now where Barenaked Ladies got their schtick). As someone else pointed out the engineering is fucked. Imagine if Billy Joel had gone to Berlin but instead of hooking up with Visconti and Eno he met Brian Wilson and Phil Spector.

Why do they insist on Elvis Costello?

I absolutely hate the album cover, not really sure why, just reminds me of some cheap art you’d see in a dated hotel or something. This is one of his better albums. 1979 was a great year for British music,.

Jesus...again new wave...one of the easiest 1's.

I found myself enjoying the sound of this album but some parts I thought were in kind of weird taste (like the talk of a "final solution" in "Chemistry Class" or, well, "Two Little Hitlers"). The slurs suck too (definitely jarred on my first listen of "Oliver's Army").

Two belting songs I practically grew up with, and the rest isn't too shabby either. Watch out for these lads...

Brilliantly played and produced, *Armed Forces* is loud, direct, punchy and weird - it's everything a good rock and roll record should be. Many of the tracks are stellar and rank as the best of Costello's career. His wordplay and pointed observations are even sharper than ever on *AF* and his innovative arrangements (such as on "Green Shirt") expand on his sound in interesting ways. Not *every* track is a complete success, though. "Big Boys" is stuffed with too many songwriting tricks and struggles under its own weight. "Party Girl" has one too many sections; it's one draft away from brilliance. "Busy Bodies" and "Mood for Moderns" come across as generic new wave and don't stand up to the rest. "Sunday's Best" is a waltz-time outlier that would have been better as b-side material. None of these tracks are duds, but the fact that they fall short of the genius of "Accidents Will Happen" or "Oliver's Army" keeps this album from being a complete masterpiece.

I liked it well enough. Had me bobbing my head and pretty into the music. Hearing social commentary from the time is also interesting to me. The slur did, like others have said, caught me off guard. I did immediately look up the context though. This perjorative phrase was used against Irish Catholics, and I believe the point of his use was to call attention to their mistreatment at the time. All that said, I don't really think it's much to write home about. Important, some may argue, but just okay in my opinion

I have never truly listened to any Elvis Costello. This should be interesting. I know how much of a legendary pop songwriter he is. These songs ae very well put together. NOt even a big fan nor know much of him, as I previously stated but this sounds like a 4-star album

Not as enjoyable as the other EC albums on here, but still solid.

Here we go again... good lord. I can't do this, man. Hey look he said the N word! Something about Costello's voice fundamentally irritates me. Every track sounds like he's said to the band "let's make a cool song with a... deeper meaning" and it just never goes anywhere. The kit has no bite, and sounds like it's on the other side of a big room. The one exception to the production feeling so lacklustre is Moods for Moderns., but even then I think I just felt grateful for a cut-through bass line... oh wait Elvis has started singing. Nevermind. I cannot enjoy this man's music and I never will. If you ever brought someone home, things were getting hot and heavy and proceeded to put this on you would no longer be getting laid. I look forward to the next hour I will never get back from this guy.

The more exposure I get to this bloke, the less I care for him and his weird annoying voice. Moods for Moderns was alright, though. Broken cock gets the worm and all that.

Starting to feel like these Costello albums are akin to different bottles of flavored water.

Certainly a more enjoyable listen than my first LP-duration exposure to Costello, Imperial Bedroom. This seems to be a much more middle of the road record in terms of straightforward listenability. I struggle to understand or comprehend lyrics without several listens, so any quality of lyricism is out the window as far as my assessment of most records goes. Undoubtedly a musically talented group, but man does his voice wear you out after a few tracks. also looks like a gay dork.

My disappointment was immeasurable when I found out Elvis Costello was a British white guy doing shitty new wave and not an awesome black Jazz Trombonist as his name might suggest. This guy really isn't for me, Goon Squad is the only song I liked off the album and I'm pretty sure that's only cause I'm a Platinum Puller on Jerkmate Ranked. 5/10

This shit sucked lol

Some people will do anything to say the n word, huh? Listening to this album really requires a full focus. There is a lot packed in here and a passive listen of this really feels like someone ranting at you set to music. Side A is very catchy but as a whole, this is a very dense album to digest all at once. Luckily I have enough experience and patience from dealing with gasbags in real life (I live with the king of them!) to enjoy the musical equivalent of a human wave attack. Green Shirt made me consider how effective his second-person lyricism is, it is pointed and vindictive like he is telling someone off in his music or using songs as therapy for little gripes he has and I love someone that petty. The edition of the album available on spotify tacks on (What's So Funny 'Bout) Peace, Love and Understanding which is a fine song but it feels a bit out of place, like Costello's voice is a few octaves lower and the mixing is different but whatever. The political/satirical songs on here are snappy and the non-political ones are so bitter that it makes me think that Elliot Rodger may have had a future as a singer-songwriter if he had channelled his energy into writing music instead of spending 0900-1700 sitting in Barnes & Noble for weeks waiting for a woman to approach him for months on end. He even looks like the same vein of freak as Elvis Costello and Woody Allen so I honestly think we really did miss out on something there. But I digress, this album was difficult to interface with at first but it really paid off to give this several listens. Forgoing one song that sounds like goofy circus shit (Sunday's Best), this is a great album and unlike other artists that have 5+ albums on here I am beginning to understand why the people who like Elvis Costello REALLY like him. Highlights: Oliver's Army, Party Girl, Busy Bodies, (What's So Funny 'Bout) Peace, Love, and Understanding

"Armed Forces" is a great album. Especially if you're having a sad day and need something to cheer you up. It has a very interesting vibe to its content. Overall, it's simply wonderful.

I enjoyed it more than I expected. There was a bit of pop sheen (but not too much) on what I expected to be all punk fire and brimstone. Not something I’ll go back to frequently but still a fun listen.

Not for me

This album kinda dragged. While I was pleasantly surprised by the previous, if derivative, Elvis Costello album, this one was not a winner for me. Never like hearing a white man use the n-word in a song, regardless of his “political statement” in doing so. I did listen to the whole thing, but wouldn’t revisit it. Properly 1.5.

Not super plussed by any of it - nothing really stood out at all during the listen. I enjoyed the last track, but only because Bill Murray sang it in Lost in Translation.

Not as raw as the earlier Elvis Costello, moving more towards complex power pop. Excellent record, can here the beginnings of Costello’s future evolution.

Really don’t like the weird ‘50s nostalgia thing this guy keeps doing. Second of his albums on this list and I’m still thinking non-essential!!!

3.5

Some decent tunes. Ive never really cared for Costello's voice though.