My Aim Is True

great album, Elvis Costello is from my teen hood, Alison is one of my favorite songs, just love it!!!! 5 stars

“Now that your picture’s in the paper being rhythmically admired…” This album is a classic for that line alone.

fun. groovy. upbeat and makes you feel like dancing

Well dude, this is one of my favorite albums of all time, so I can hardly be objective here. 5 stars, every day.

He has released many fine albums, but this is the one that started it all off, a classic.

His first and my favorite Elvis Costello album. This is one I would consider getting on vinyl (so I did!) My favorite tunes are "Alison" (love the guitar work), "Watching the Detectives" (is there a better lyric than “red dogs under illegal legs”?) and "(The Angels Wanna Wear My) Red Shoes".

Global reviews on this one were wild. To me, this is one of the greatest power pop records ever, but all the most upvoted reviews hate it?

One of the greatest debut records ever. A classic.

Good album, liked it.

yes!!!

Now THIS is a debut, bursting with creative energy. Elvis Costello, Joe Jackson, Marshall Crenshaw all embody a really nostalgic, punk-laced classic rock and roll feel that really jives with my overall sensibility. Honestly I think my biggest critique of this album is with the cover art. My Aim is True is so hard to read I felt like I was having a stroke trying to decipher it. All he needed was a drop shadow or embossing on the characters and the legibility issue disappears without sacrificing the aesthetic checkboard appeal. On the other hand, this is the first time I noticed on each black square there is a letter and together it spells out "Elvis is King" over and over again, which is cool. But I mean, album itself? Chef's kiss.

Back in the day, this was my pick of the best album of 1977 (narrowly edging out the Sex Pistols). This Years Model may be better, but that is splitting hairs. This is a great record from start to finish and one I keep going back to in the 46 years (ouch) since its release. Extra points for naming the album after a song lyric, as opposed to a song title).

One of the all time Top 10 Debut Albums. Every song is great. Enough said!

Elvis Costello is my Mom's favorite so I grew up listening to this album, but I really think it's one of the best debut albums of all time. Every song on here is at least good if not great and their brevity always leaves me wanting more to see where they would go if they were longer. I really cannot believe this was first album as it is just so flawlessly executed His lyrics are punchy and interesting, with his vocal inflections adding further texture to these. Somehow he has created entire worlds in these 3 minute songs. Musically, the songs sound like he is both paying homage to his 50s and 60s rock influences where adding his own sound and flavor. You can hear this in the vocal harmonies of "No Dancing" and the lead guitar parts on "Miracle Man" and "I'm Not Angry". (Side Note: I have wanted to cover "Watching the Detectives" for a while) Each song sounds like its own self-contained world but the entire album feels extremely cohesive. Also, the drums sound fantastic on this album!

New wave at its best! I really like it

Loistava aamupäivän levy. Klara Bries:in miehistö antaa levylle 4/5 ja itse henkilökohtaisesti pidän levyä jumal-albumina ja annan 5/5

Glorious album from start to finish. Hasn’t aged a day. Perfect pop songs performed perfectly. What more can you ask. Top shelf.

I love this album. Allison is such a classic and the rest of the album doesn't miss. Was between a High 4 and a 5, think I have to go with a 5

It’s easy for me to rate just about any Elvis album with 5 stars.

Straight on brilliance all spun from a combination of sock hop, rockabilly, and punk. Add in classic lyricism and you've got a keeper.

Pitch-perfect spiky pop

Still sounds great!

The definitive Elvis Costello sound, songwriting, and attitude.

There's only one album whose title is tattooed on my body and its this one. 5/5 obvs

Very soothing!

Classic

The perfect Elvis Costello album. I have noted that he features a bit too much on this list but in this case you couldn't ask for a more worthy album. Singer songwriter, punk poet, all around angry young man.

Guess I’m getting old

Elvis Costello is one of those names that I've always known about but never really dug into his discography. Really enjoyed this debut album, comes out swinging with that first track and has a great energy throughout with the punched up rockabilly style. Added a few tunes to the playlist off of this one, makes me want to dig into his other albums.

Perhaps the tightest debut album ever - I remember watching Costello on SNL supporting the release.

Surprisingly great sound here

OK I get it now

Great album from start to finish. Felt like the quickest 36 mins of my life.

So many hits! Obviously not as exciting as the next album, but the live bands playing the material from the first two albums is my Elvis jam. A little one note, but that's part of the charm. Great record.

One of the greatest debut albums of all time.

"Alison" is one of the greatest pop songs of all time with its wicked double entendre, and it's what initially drew me to him as a teenager. But "Alison" is only one of the many brilliantly crafted songs on this album. EC is able to balance his cerebral wit with a surprising amount of soul, in a way so few other songwriters can. He is, by FAR, my favorite Elvis.

Every tune a single.

Feeling a little meh about Elvis Costello going in but I'm glad to say, I like this one! I like this one a lot! Varied styles from song to song. Hard to pin it to a single decade. A range of feelings. Lots here to like.

Beautiful … Declan Patrick MacManus at his best

There are several "game-changing" albums that helped shape my musical tastes and My Aim Is True is definitely one of them. This album helped define my love of late 70's British punk/New Wave rock that introduced me to similar sounding musicians and bands from the era, Graham Parker, Joe Jackson, Nick Lowe, Dave Edmunds (w/ Rockpile), Brinsley Schwarz and Ducks Deluxe. This was Elvis's amazing debut album and how many musicians have released 3 consecutive stunners from the start of their career this good? My Aim Is True has two of EC's career defining songs (Alison, Watching The Detectives) that are essential to any era and genre. His next album is even better with the addition of his semi-perma-band, The Attractions, but there's no doubt that wouldn't have been made without the accomplishment of My Aim Is True and it's impact and success..

Classic

10/10 Elvis Costello is the best

I took a look at the album releases in 1977 to get an idea of what I was listening to at that time: Pink Floyd>Animals; Steely Dan>Aja and David Bowie>Low. A friend of mine's older brother, who liked the blues, got this album and when I heard it, I found it too rearview mirror gazing and rockabilly-esque for my tastes. But at that point the Sex Pistols or Clash or Talking Heads had yet to touch down in Sudbury. The sound, other than "Detectives", does owe a lot to the 50s rock n' roll. The song-writing is great, especially the lyrics, and there are no dud tracks. My favourite (outside of "Detectives") is "I'm not Angry" which appears to put me at odds with most Spotify listeners. There are other Elvis albums I like more, but this is still a 5 in my books.

One of the great first albums.

Oke wel echt zeer hard van genoten...ik ga hem geven maar is een nipte hoor

Classic debut album of Elvis Costello, and the start of quite a long sequence of 5* EC albums.

Definitely the best Costello album on this list, and there is too many. In my opinion this one and this year's model would be enough. With that said, this is a fantastic debut album that keeps you on your toes and your foot tapping.

Power pop at its very finest. Costello has both wit and wisdom in spades for someone so young.

I've previously questioned whether the number of Elvis Costello albums on this list might be overkill. However, the inclusion of this, Costello's debut, is clearly very well justified. It comprises 12 immaculately written and performed tracks. Each one is an instant ear worm, but with emotion and depth. Top notch. Rating: 4.5/5 Playlist track: Alison Date listened: 17/09/22

Good quirky pop tunes, really like, should listen again

Loved this already, though I don't know that I ever owned the whole album

Best album in the world

p390. 1977. 5 stars Costello when he could still knock out a decent tune. Listening to this, you can see what the fuss was about - razor sharp lyrics, minimal production, and short snappy songs that actually stick in the ear. This is the standard he set himself, and it's just sad to hear the thin meandering whining that he puts out these days compared to this.

I've heard this before, but maybe I didn't really listen to it. Regardless, I love this album. Alison is an all-time great song. But there's not really a filler song on this thing. There's a great collision of old-fashioned rock n roll with something unhinged that just really works for me. Great stuff.

I had a lot of fun listening to this joint! Costello wears a number of different hats, and does it well. At times he alternately sounds like Graham Parker, the Ronettes, Randy Newman and even the Atlanta Rhythm Section - or do they sound like him? Anyway, short, sharp songs redolent of the pub rock scene, without a whole lot of frippery but plenty of flash. A fantastic record.

Fantastic. Great punk.

Viel Gitarre, watching the detectives bekannt und gut, Blues und Rock, gefällt mir

Liked this one a lot. Never been a huge Costello fan but this album is well done. Great guitar, bass and drum parts. Cool vibe all around.

Much more eclectic than I was expecting. definitely one to revisit. Cover art 5/5

One of my favorite records, there are so many great songs! I love the songwriting, the variety of song styles, his vocals, …

4.5/5. Quite good, prob my fav Costello

Incredible display of rock and roll.

zabavnoooo, ovo je odlican album za voznju, 5

I already owned this one. Love this era of Costello. His first 3 albums are true classics.

I love Elvis Costello and "My Aim is True" is one of my favorites. But most importantly, it got the thumbs up from my daughter when we were listening to it in the car. She said the songs were stuck in her head and she "kinda liked it"

Classic proto-New Wave rock is classic. This is what I expected to see of Elvis Costello on this list, not the 85 other albums that I’ve seen.

Magnificent

Its nice revisiting this, i appreciate it much more now.

Loved it! Great album.

One of the great debuts of all time and a long time favorite of mine. Not a dud song on the album. 5 stars 🌟

love this album

When he was hungry, every track could have been a single

Outstanding

It's not my #1 Elvis Costello album, but it's definitely up there!

Brilliant Costello.

Oh, Elvis Costello! Don't know how many times I've listened to this album. Always a pleasure. Brilliant musicians, great singer!

Hot damn this is my first experience with Elvis Costello and I am blown away. This album is absolutely fantastic.

excellence

Liked this Early Costello is cool

Awesome, great songs, great singer

One of my favorites from high school. Every song is a hit.

I've played this a lot since first listening. Miracle Man and Alison are standout songs, but I enjoyed the whole album.

13/13

Heard it. Brilliant.

Very cool album. I don’t like how many of the songs end in fade outs though. 9/10

The natural progression of rockabilly, loved it

it was really groovy and fun

Much better than the last Costello album we had, some proper bangers on here

A pleasant surprise. I had always assumed Costello's music was boring critic bait, but his modern(for the time) interpretation of the 50's style is actually quite enjoyable. I particularly enjoyed his punchy and clever lyricism.

Leuke artiest en leuke liedjes, maar wel een beetje oudelullenmuziek

Quite an enjoyable album, even though it switches between genres quite often, it still mantains a classic “rocky” vibe overall. Guitars and vocals are really what stands out the most. Again, not my genre but it was still a nice experience afterall

Thought this was pretty fun. Liked Working Week and Blame It the most but several good ones.

Sounds like I'm 18 again!

Maybe I’ve been sleeping on Elvis because this was fun

Didn’t think too much going in but I was pleasantly surprised I really like this sound and his voice Favorites: Alison, welcome to the working week, red shoes 3.5/5 maybe even 4

Suhteellisen kova debyyttialbumi. Musiikiltaan kovinkin "bringing the perus into perusrokki", toki loppupäästä löytyy random Reggae-biisi.. ok? Hyvinkin mukiinmenevää rokkia, omalaatuinen laulutyyli mutta ei ärsytä, kannanottoa varmasti löytyy lyriikasta - vaatis ehkä keskittymistä. Tuskin tarvetta palata kyseiseen levyyn, mutta ehkä itselle vanhoista Elviksistä kiinnostavampi artisti.

he's got great aim

Alright so I previously said his first 4 albums were perfection. This is not. Some great tracks on here, muddled by the fact that he seems to have written them 13 times.

There are way too many Elvis Costello albums on this list, but I actually quite like this album. It’s his first and is a little bit rougher. From what I’ve heard of his later music, it’s a bit more sanded down and bland. But this one is fun

Fun album, you can listen to the punk influences and rock and roll songs, very energetic and it doesn't stop until it finishes. Would listen again.

Loved it, its a great entry into 70s rock, much better than elvis presley honestly, (ovverrated ass dude) anyways, favorite track might be im not angry, and not a big fan of the 70s genre of rock but i still really loved it, roadtrip style music and stuff

Great album. Punchy songwriting.

Do all of these albums sound the same? Yeah, maybe a little. But it's never not catchy and it's never not incisive. Plus, it's punk rock for christsakes. That's the name of the game at a certain point, right? You write as many songs as possible to say as much as possible, and write great hooks while you do it. It's lean and mean, nerdy rock before that was something you could find on Reddit.

He has a nice voice.

It's a solid listen. I wouldn't ever say it's "must-listen" but I can definitely see how this could have made a big impact and influence on other musicians in 1977. Felt like the album got better as it went on and wasn't "single heavy" which helps.

Young angst spirit clashing with reserved English nature. Elvis could write a hook and a sneer with the best of em. Some undeniable post-punk nerd rock hits in this one. I had This Years Model on CD as a middle schooler and wore it out. A little bit older, a little bit more refined.

Alison, Watching the Detectives, and Red Shoes would carry a much worse album, but there's a lot of other good stuff here.

more like it, Elvis! massively satisfying power-pop record, using old genres and models to sexual, contemporary, curdled ends. tracks 1 to 7 in particular just hit after hit after hit, brilliant melodies used to sing about pent-up and unbecoming horniness, EC sputtering and swaggering his way through them in such a way to make desperation and vitriol sound like the coolest things in the world. next record is maybe just a bit sharper but this is just immediately, explosively good stuff

This tries so hard to be folk I didn’t hate it though. 4 stars.

Catchy post-punk with razor sharp lyrics

1977. Costello changed his name from D.P. Costello to Elvis after Elvis Presley, and adjusted his image to match the rising punk rock movement. Costello kept his day job as a data entry clerk during the sessions.

For some reason I had always assumed that Elvis Costello was like a classic jazz guy, and listening to this I kinda get why. Not with the jazz thing obviously, but this feels like a throwback to like 60s pop and it’s just a really fun time. It’s what good pop can be, downer lyrics over fun instrumentals works every time. Favorites: Blame It On Cain, Less Than Zero, Watching the Angels

"(The Angels Wanna Wear My) Red Shoes" has been one of my favorite songs for many years. I had an economics professor who quoted "I used to be disgusted / But now I try to be amused" at the top of an exam paper. Words to live by. I think he sounds a lot like the other Elvis on "Mystery Dance," which is a connection I don't think I would have made had I not heard a podcast episode about Presley yesterday.

These Elvis Costello albums continue to impress me. With the exception of one greatest hits album (see one of my previous reviews) which I liked, I don't think I'd heard much from him and that's a shame. 3.5 rounded up

This is it: Elvis Costello's one truly great album. Every song is a winner, and I've enjoyed this not as a guilty pleasure, but a genuinely smart and insightful pop rock album with really cool punk, blues, and reggae influences added in spades. My only gripe is the production (a bit tinny) but he literally was broke at the time and did what he could. As a result, it's sincere and authentic as it gets when it comes to the genre. Costello is a knowledgeable guy when it comes to music styles and playing but it doesn't always translate in his albums. Here, hungry and ambitious, he produces probably the best album of his career. I love these melodies and lyrics so much - great when I need to take a break from more complex music. 4.5 stars.

This is the source code of indie rock. Its old school and contemporary and futuristic all at the same time. Like this could be released today and it would feel okay. He's so clearly winking at Buddy Holly and his early era rock and roll influences, while simultaneously being a punk rocker. The lyrics are fun, deep, smart and even cutting at times. I loved this.

Me encantó!

Elvis is raucous, loud, fierce, and vulnerable on this, one of his best records.

Fun off brand Elvis

I wasn't listening to Elvis Costello back in the late 70's, but I was aware of him and some of his songs. I liked the ones I heard, but never jumped into his albums. That changed in the early 80's, when I became more interested in the new wave/alternative scene. I got a few of his albums, including this one. I never truly got into his music, but I appreciated it. As I wrote about Imperial Ballroom a while back, I've generally preferred his singles to his records. In giving this a fresh listen today, I tried to forget all of that and hoped to be open minded (as I want to do with each album in this project but harder to do with ones I know). After listening, I mostly have the same feeling as I did before. I once again felt that the singles were the best and most fleshed out songs. What struck me, as it always has with him, is his ability to be both bitingly sarcastic and even cruel in his lyrics, but then tender and a bit more vulnerable as well. I've really liked that and wished I could enjoy his album tracks as much as the singles. Standouts were Alison, Less Than Zero, and Watching the Detectives. But I also liked I'm Not Angry quite a bit. There were no bad songs on the album, but many just don't connect the same way those damn singles do.

Tremendous debut album which led to a long career in a variety of musical genres. Fun to listen to even decades later.

favs: welcome to the working week, i'm not angry

211020 12:35 4

There is no mistaking Elvis Costello's voice. It is a mixture of harmony edged with a type of intelligent rage. I didn't realise how much I enjoyed Elvis Costello until Spotify identified that I am now old and suggests that I listen every time a playlist or album that I have put on finishes. And to be fair it is right. This album seems a lot more stripped back to just the twangly guitar, tambourine and drums. Add Costello's unique vocals and it sounds almost like a 50s Americana revival album. The biggest hits that I am aware of on this album are (Angels wanna wear my) Red Shoes" and "Watching the detectives". Both of which I could listen to again and again. I think this will be one of my go to albums in future. (4.250)

Not bad

Love this album, such great talent and different sort of songs on it. Amazing. 1. Alison 2. Welcome To The Working Week 3. Less Than Zero

(Light to Mid 8/10) Super good record! The songwriting is superb, this thing is packed with awesome melodies and hooks, the guitar playing especially is surprisingly intricate and full of personality. "Miracle Man", "Allison" and "(The Angels Wanna Wear My) Red Shoes" are the highlights for me. Especially "Allison", it's soft rock perfection, the guitar on this song is the secret weapon to this song's effectiveness. I didn't expect to like that one as much as I did. Honestly, there's never really a super weak moment for me on this album aside from "Mystery Dance". It's a tongue-in-cheek rockabilly song that's short enough not to be terribly annoying. I just think it sticks out in the track list in kind of an awkward way. Other than that song though I thoroughly enjoy every song here and I will be coming back to this album next time I need good music for a good time.

i liked it, nothing memorable but actually rlly liked it

Alison & some other good ones

Just some fun rock'n'roll with nice variation in the song styles. Favorite Songs: No Dancing ; Blame it on Cain ;

I’m convinced that the only two records of Elvis Costello worth listening to are this and This Years Model. The rest are fucking slogs.

irado

Fun 60s vibe very energizing. Imagine a diner filled with a good burger on Route 66. Drink wise it’s like an espresso pour over onto a chocolate milksha. 7.93/10

Pretty comfy four. Enjoyed it more than expected. 4/5.

Gøy, fengende og kul.

Alt med Elvis Castello e terningkast fire. Aldri dårlig, men heller aldri skikkelig bra. Allison e en schlæger da. Runde opp til firer

This was probably peak Elvis Costello album for me, it's got nice variety, it's fun, it's not too much of a vibe like he's trying to talk my ear off at a party

lots of good tunes on this, but Alison stands head and shoulders above

Pretty great for a debut and immediately hooks you in with his gift for melody and lyrics on a trio of great tracks right out of the gates. Alison is the star of the album I think but Watching the Detectives and Red Shoes are also stellar songs. I'm not sure this is really revolutionary from a music standpoint but is a good blend of sort of 50s rock and roll with a punk aesthetic. Quite good overall.

Very pop-rock album. Did not him and really enjoyed it. Gets a bit repetitive in the middle with the same song structure, repeating and fade-away ending, but overall very good considering first album. Definitely enjoyed it.

Muy bien

Elvis always surprises me. I enjoyed this endeavor into his catalogue. The suggested list following was also nice.

Haven't listened to much Elvis Castello before, but I dig the album.

- Most of this album is some just straight up rock & roll and it's awesome - There's some softer songs and even some reggae, which I was not expecting. It was a nice surprise for sure. - I loved the track "Mystery Dance" it's literally a minute and a half of high energy rock. It's badass. - "I'm not angry" is another standout song. Paints the picture of a cheating girlfriend with awesome guitar riffs and backing vocals whispering "ANGRY". It's super catchy and I was singing along before the end. - Never paid much attention to Elvis Costello before. I'm grateful for this hearing this album, it definitely surprised me and I had a good time WAITING FOR THE END OF THE WORLD.

It's a very good album

⭐⭐⭐⭐+ Albumet har en viss punkig attityd men mycket musikaliskt och hämtar från många genres vilket gör albummet varierat men i slutändan är det ett perfekt powerpop album. Och dessutom en debut. Det är ett kul album med lite quirky texter och jag blir glad av att lyssna. Det får bli en stark 4a. Bäst är Welcome to the working week, Blame it on Cane, Alison, Red shoes och Warching the detectives.

Overall Rating - 3.50/5 (7.00/10) Pretty much the whole album had me dancing in my chair while I was listening.

good but not something i usually listen to

My first Elvis Costello Album from back in the day #MusicSky #AlbumSky #MusicChallenge

gostei demais desse álbum me pasaa uma give divertida, algo meio rockabilly, mt bom

Mom listened to it a lot on the radio! Fun!

Elvis Costello has a kind of ageless appeal that will always be cool--or maybe I just think that because I was an 80s kid.

Another awesome debut. So solid, especially for the time it came out.

Coolest!

nice

Almost a 3 but won me over by the end, fun times ahoy

This album is fun

4/5 Overall good musical ability to make most tracks feel special and worthwhile to listen to.

You can't complain about an album all sounding the same and then not appreciate when there is an album with several different sounds and feeling. Enjoyed it more than I thought I would. When the less well known tracks hold my attention more than the well know tracks then I've got to rate that highly.

Ended up enjoying this a lot more than I thought I would! Some fun and creative songs. Saved songs: Miracle Man, Blame it on Cain, (The Angels Wanna Wear My) Red Shoes, & Watching the Detectives A generous 4 stars

CONTAGIOUSLY FUN. I love this stuff. High 4

I actually liked this album, lots of good songs I liked.

Very good album (though I think I prefer This Year's Model). Some songs reminded me of Springsteen (Blame it on Cain or Sneaky Feelings). Some favourite tracks: Alison, No Dancing, Less Than Zero, (The Angels Wanna Wear My) Red Shoes, or Waiting for the End of the World.

man i love elvis (costello)

A great debut album but not his best album (Spike). An extra star for going on SNL and getting banned for not playing what the record company wanted to him to play. Watching Loren Michaels giving him the finger in live TV was worth it.

That’s was better than I was expecting tbh

4/5 https://rateyourmusic.com/release/album/elvis-costello/my-aim-is-true/ Never really listened to this guy, but I should have! Some very nice songs on this! Not all equally exciting, but some really stand out.

My first Costello album on this list. It seems everyone comes away from this challenge with noting but hatred for him. Then again, I don’t agree with a lot of takes I see in the reviews on this site. This album was very good, nothing bad or particularly boring, I liked a good chunk of the ideas on here. The songwriting is really strong, I like the fusion of more classic music styles with modern (at the time) styles. The band is consistently great. This is Elvis Costello’s highest rated album on here, so I suppose it’s all downhill from here. 4/5

Gotta love the “other Elvis!” Heard the singles on the radio; the rest of the album was entertaining.

Late 70's power pop from one of the very best. Snappy, energetic songs including some of his very best with "Alison," "Watching the Detectives", "Angels Wanna Wear My red Shoes " etc. I like him best in this format with the Attractions and production by Nick Lowe. Not quite 5 star, a few filler songs, but one of the best debuts ever.

This is the best Elvis Costello that I've heard, which is especially impressive given it was his first. Punk and rockabilly come together perfectly on it, and I've talked smack about Costello before, but the man really knows how to write an insanely catchy hook. Just can't beat an album that has Alison, Less Than Zero, and Watching the Detectives, songs that stay stuck in my head for weeks after hearing them.

Pretty classic Costello album, always enjoyable.

very good, he is a great musician

Saw quite a few negative comments about the list containing too much Elvis Costello and was expecting to struggle through this but it is a good album with memorable tracks and strong songwriting.

this can comfort many people

Elvis Costello is another artist I find a bit overrepresented on the 1001 Albums list. That said, listening to My Aim Is True this morning was probably the most fun I’ve had with a Costello record since starting this project. There’s an extra spark here—an energy that feels more immediate and palpable than anything else I’ve heard from his catalog so far. It also helped that I already knew three songs on the album: “Alison,” “Watching the Detectives,” and the lesser-known “Mystery Dance,” which I recognized from the opening credits of Zero Effect. That realization alone made me want to revisit it, since it’s probably been fifteen years since I last watched it. Film detour aside, Costello’s debut—at least compared with the other five of his albums on the list—felt genuinely important to hear, and worthy of experiencing before I die.

Another strong 4 for Elvis. Before this project I had never listened to his work but he’s pretty good and consistently so.

Solid Elvis Costello. I think he's a bit over-represented on the list, but I've come to like his music.

Very enjoyable mellow sound.

es como Billy Joel y no está mal

sensational debut album from Elvis; really unique sound mixing several genres. Incredible mixing from Nick Lowe. Pretty dumb to put "Watching the Detectives" at the end of side 2; should have been placed at end of side 1.

I really enjoyed this album. It's fun and interesting.

Asjalik rokk meeldejäävate meloodiate ja käikudega. Seda plaati saaks küll korduvalt kuulata ja ma kujutan ette, et Elvis Costello oli hea peo-esineja. 3.5/5

I don't think I've ever actually sat down and listened to an Elvis Costello song before, let alone a whole album. Pretty bouncy and energetic, even in the slower songs. No Dancing, Allison and I'm Not Angry are all pretty solid.

I couldn't get into Elvis Costello when all my cool-kid friends in high school were quoting lyrics, but coming to him later in life is pretty fun too. Savage lyrics, Elvis Presley rock and pop craft, with snarly angry punk fuck-offery. A brilliant debut.

Love the smart sardonic quality in Elvis Costello. I feel like he’s a beloved hip, curmudgeonly uncle.

The songwriting is definitely sharp, and the jangly post-punk sound here is also sharp. It's an economical set of energetic, appealing songs.

Es mas de mi estilo, encuentro que the weezer se parece mucho a ellos, tiene un toque de rock tranquilo

Super upbeat fun album. Some real bangers in there

Finally! The last of the seemingly interminable number of Elvis Costello albums, and it seems fitting to end on his debut (sans Attractions, at least in the studio (and band name)). I'm a little bummed that this collection overloaded so much on Elvis Costello, because as much as I enjoy his music, at this point I'm not sure I need to listen to him recreationally for quite a while. As for the album, it's a really strong debut, so much so that I find it hard to even try to imagine how people must have thought when they heard Costello for the first time. And while he definitely hadn't hit his stride either style- or lyrics-wise (perhaps in part because he apparently kept his day-job as a data-entry clerk while recording the album, plus not great chemistry with Huey Lewis' Clover band members in the studio), there are some fun tracks on here, mainly "Blame it on Cain", the perennial classic and album-title-toting "Alison", "Less than zero" and of course the bonus/single classic "Watching the detectives" (avec Attractions, sort of). It's probably not the best overall from Costello, but as a debut album it soars.

Nice pub rock album. Good mix of punk and ‘50/60’s doo-wop style songs.

Great album, I’m a big fan. Some instant classics on this album including Alison, The Angels Want to Wear My Red Shoes, and Watching the Detectives. All the songs are good, some are great.

7/10

Greta Guitars and voice tone, not my stile but very good

Gefällt mir recht gut, schön und abwechslungsreich

I like more this album

More rockabilly sounding than his next punky stuff. Really good

Welcome to the working week: what an opener. Every time I put this album on, I’m immediately drawn into its strange mélange of dodgy characters and sticky hooks. Aside from some rather mediocre songs in the second half (the overly Elvis-leaning “Mystery Dance,” the honky-tonk-driven “Pay It Back,” and the rather uninspired guitar-solo rock pastiche “I’m Not Angry”), this still stands as one of the best debut albums of all time. Even the songs that aren’t perfect already showcase that undeniable chorus/post-chorus magic that Elvis Costello mastered like no other. It sounds simple, but it seems damn hard to replicate — even after all these years. 4.5… so close to a 5.

Outstanding album carried by the classic “Alison.” Only reason not five stars is I didn’t love any of the other songs, but definitely liked them all.

4 - I’d be hoppy if Elvis played at my prom. A real vibe - play on a spotify song playlist and see what happens.

Best Elvis Costello album so far (had 3). Close to a 5. I'd rate it 4.5/5

Бодро зашло

Punchy pop punk, proto-new wave and power pop beautifully blended together. The album's title is very apropos. Each track is solid and hits the mark perfectly. Great album.

nooo dancing 💃🕺

Interesting music. Not my usual but very high energy music!

What a fun record! I've never listened to this before and really not much Elvis Costello, so it was a good listen. Some good riffs throughout, nice grooves, just generally enjoyable.

His first record is also his best. What an audacious debut album. In general, I find Costello’s songs too wordy, and they’re definitely pushing that line here, but there are enough hooks to keep my toes tapping.

Not his best but memorable.

Replay yes

Better then expected

A great album, but not my fave by him

I love Elvis and the songs are great, but this man needs The Attractions not the fucking News.

Skoj med en till Elvis! Sjukt länge sen jag lyssnade på den här Elvisen. Har bara hört hitsen från den här skivan, han har ju släppt så stört många. Dom vi hade hemma när man var basic junior var främst från 90-talet. Min favorit med honom är den där han gör med legenden -Burt Bacharach. Där snackar vi magi! Den här plattan var ju ruggigt fet den med. Vet inte om jag ogillar en enda låt. Sen när den smekande gitarren kommer in i början av Alison vet man ju att det är leveratch. Han sjunger inte riktigt så bra som han gör senare i karriären här, men plattan avslutas med white reggae, vilket gör att det inte kan blir lägre än en stark fyra👌 absolut noll häng på basisten haha

En av farsans två uttalade favoritartister. Den andra är Joe Jackson, som låter precis som Elvis Costello.

13 - Elvis Costello - My Aim is True - Rating = 4 I am a fan of Elvis Costello - this is definitely the more raw/early effort sound - Welcome to the Working Week is a nice opener, Miracle Man continues the distinct Elvis vocal lead rambler. No Dancing is a change of pace, a little jangly and some light crooning happening. Blame it on Cain… okay now I feel like we may be in the funky South. This has a serious country vibe crossed with simple 70’s guitars… This on is not really my vibe. Alison is an all-time classic song that I love. Sneaky Angels is a cross between the jangly blues I don’t love and the Elvis crooning that works… not sure. The Angels Wanna Wear my Red Shoes is another classic, and the bonus of Watching the Detectives is super nice. This is a pretty strong record if a bit dated.

Very cool Standout songs: Miracle Man Red Shoes Less than Zero

Good music. I like the little The Clash in it. Too much albums of him on this list.

7/10 On first listen, I got quite into this. It’s pretty simple in places and it burns its way through tracks like it’s going out of fashion, rarely hanging on an ideas for too long, but there’s a certain charm to it and the fact that it doesn’t often outplay its ideas by dragging them on is definitely a strength. There’s a good pop music sensibility to the melodic aspects of the composition, but it’s got a little twist of other influences spread throughout, with elements of punk, rock n roll and even an edge of ska. The band here (Clover, members of which would go on to form Huey Lewis & The News) do a magnificent job and it’s a crisp, tight performance all round that really adds to the light, poppy edge of the production. That’s not to say it doesn’t have a bit of grit and edge to it, but that mix of tones is presented in a really approachable package. Elvis’ voice treads a really nice line between the raw punky edge and the more sincere, subtle delivery of the more relaxed numbers, and that little bit of range helps to add an extra tonal variety. He writes some decent melodies in here that do a good job of hooking you in to a track, but he’s also not afraid to throw in some less conventional chord changes and transitions that keeps you on your toes just that little bit. On repeat listening, I did find that there were a few lulls here and there, and there were some tracks in which the component parts didn’t quite gel into a completely coherent and consistent whole, but for the most part it was a pretty enjoyable record. It’s definitely an interesting starting point and I’d be interested to hear where Mr Costello goes next. Welcome To The Working Week - It’s a strong start that’s clean and poppy, but has a little bit of punk edge to it. It shifts between a sharp, staccato sound and something more smooth. The vocal harmonies are great. It’s rhythmically compelling too. Kind of a shame it’s less than a minute and a half long! Miracle Man - It’s slightly disappointing that the tempo of the opener is lost so quickly. This has a nice swung groove to it and a nice melodic sensibility and is very tightly performed. It’s a well written song, with plenty of interest across the instrumentation but unfortunately it’s not quite as engaging as the opener. No Dancing - This feels like we’re building to something with a bit more pizzazz. It’s got a bit of a motown blended with 60s pop-rock sound to it, but it never quite bounces its way to the heights that it promised early doors. The sound is pleasant and coherent, but I’m just left wanting something a little bit more from it. I think it maybe feels a lot like it’s made up of lots of intros that never actually lead up to the proper song. Blame It On Cain - Ah, here we go. This has got a solid hook of a chorus with a verse that builds up nicely to it. The swing of the groove is really nice and the tonal mix is solid soo. It has a good blend of clean rock and roll stylings with a pinch of punky grit and a poppy melodic sensibility. Pretty good. Alison - Now we’re on to a smooth ballad. There’s some nice guitar playing here and I really like the way the lead vocal wanders around, rather than just sitting on a fixed motif. It’s still got that little rough edge to it that gives it a bit of charm, and the chorus is a really nice piece of composition that actually does something musically interesting, rather than anything too obvious. Sneaky Feelings - The pace has picked up and it feels like we’re more into the swing of things now. There’s a cool strolling swing to this with some tasty transitions between sections. The general blend of grooves across the instrumentation is solid and the piano and bass are particularly worthy of note. It’s just a really good pop-rock number. (The Angels Wanna Wear My) Red Shoes - Another great bit of pop melodic writing. This is smooth, has great rhythmic elements and flows really nicely. The vibe is rock solid and it’s got that little edge of attitude in the vocal delivery to give it a bit of an extra kick. There’s nothing overly complex about it, but it’s good songwriting that’s executed brilliantly. Less Than Zero - There are some really great elements to this track, but there’s something about it that feels a little bit disjointed in places. I think it maybe rests too far back on the groove in places where I feel like it would benefit from driving forward a little. It’s a shame, because there are bits of this that are really compelling. Mystery Dance - Now we’re into flat out rock and roll. It’s great stuff, really well played and has a compelling pace to it too, although it’s a pretty standard example of the genre from a songwriting point of view. It’s also over in a minute and a half. Pay It Back - Another nice rocky swing number now. It’s got a great, finger-clicking groove to it with a lovely strolling bass line. Again, there’s a solid pop melodic sensibility here that gives things an engaging vibe. The band sounds completely locked in and there are some great pieces of instrumental work in there too. It’s just a really competent and coherent swinging pop rock song. I'm Not Angry - The guitar is full of attitude on this track, playing with swagger and feel. It’s a pretty simple song, but again, the vibe keeps it driving along well. It’s got that little bit of grit to it and the transition to an almost country edge through the softer sections is pretty cool. It is a little on the repetitive side though. Waiting For The End Of The World - This is another that I really like aspects of, but it feels like it lacks a little bit of fluidity in places and is a bit too plodding or rhythmically stilted in a few places. The general gist of it is pretty good though and the vibe continues to be solid

For a debut album Elvis Costello arrives fully formed. I've always said about Elvis that if you don't like one of his songs that's ok because there'll be a new one on in like 2 minutes. Quick great sons, great energy, I kind of wish I dated a woman named Alison at some point in my life

Enjoyed this one more than I thought I would

It's 3.75 but today i'm feeling good.

Seems I heard half of the songs on this album and did not listen to the first half and stop before. Had another album from his early on from the generator and I enjoyed overall. Liked the hit songs but it went by very quickly.

I am usually undecided about Elvis Costello, but I liked this way more than I'd expected.

Encantada con el álbum.

3,5 actually

Just as punk rock was taking the UK by storm in 1977, an emerging British artist by the name of Elvis Costello was also determined to speak to the working class struggles of his countrymen and women, but rather than utilising the in-your-face, anachistic ways of the Sex Pistols or the worldly consciousness, Costello donned Buddy Holly-like specs, rockabilly attire and crooned through his debut record, 'My Aim Is True', as more of a hero than a rebel. Despite Costello being a British artist in the midst of the punk movement, his heartfelt, passionate croon has more in common with Bruce Springsteen than Joe Strummer, and the songs are simple, catchy and easy-listening. Lyrically, the album covers the frustrations of business ('Welcome to the Working Week'), longing for girls ('Alison') and fractured relationships ('(The Angels Wanna Wear My) Red Shoes'). The only lyrics on the record that really come close to punk's overtly political themes is 'Less Than Zero', which concerns the crimes of former British Union of Fascists leader Oswald Mosley, but musically, the song is another straight-forward rocker that evokes a strong Springsteen comparison. With punk being all the rage of 1977, it was very brave of Costello to go against the grain with the more rockabilly and American rock-inspired 'My Aim Is True', but the strength of the songwriting ensures its strength as a solid debut, and Costello would only get better from here. Best songs: Welcome to the Working Week, Blame It On Cain, Alison, (The Angels Wanna Wear My) Red Shoes, Less Than Zero

Alright...I thought it wasn't possible but it finally happened. I found an Elvis Costello album I actually think is good. Even listened to it twice. I hope you're happy.

Love this early stuff

4.2

solid 7/10

Great album! Amazing this was his debut.

Good stuff

I never really liked Elvis Costello. This album is great - before his singing affectations became too much. A very enjoyable listen.

My first of apparently many Elvis Costello records for this project. I liked Elvis Costello going into this, and I still do coming out, which is good news. He is one of the few people who can remain cool whilst being a proper showman

Album #69 Elvis Costello: My Aim Is True When I was younger, I would confuse Elvis Costello with Woody Allen. I don’t know why that confusion came up multiple times, but it did. They do look quite similar, sort of scrawny guys with glasses, at first appear to be nerds, but somehow they have an undeniably charisma and swagger to them that makes them appealing to women. Costello’s music is quirky and pulp in nature, similar to Allen’s comedy; so it is probably no mistake that I now think of both of them as geniuses. One last comparison I’ll make of Costello is that he has always felt to me like the British Springsteen. I hear quite a few similarities in their voice and rambling presence, as well as the working-class themes and tales of young love they present. But onto Costello himself, if New Wave were to be represented by an actual wave in the ocean, then Elvis Costello would be like JKL from SpongeBob; he rode that wave like no other. Costello is potentially the second most influential British musician of the 70s, when judging by the impact they had on the 80s, only after Eno and Roxy Music. The entire New Wave sound of the early 80s can be traced back to him. My Aim Is True is his debut and potentially most influential album, as it set the stage for what would come, and for my money, it may well be his best. There really isn’t a bad song on this album. It’s less than 40 minutes, the songs are short, non-stop banger: essentially my ideal template of an album. I can certainly understand that this wouldn’t appeal to everyone, but if you get it, then there aren’t many people who can do it better than Costello. A fairly appropriate album for my number 69, though I have to say that This Year’s Model may have been slightly more fitting. Best Songs: Less Than Zero, Watching The Detectives, Alison Worst Song: Mystery Dance Score out of 10: 9

I love Elvis Costello and this is an epic debut.

Love me some early Elvis

This album is awesome. It feels like a punk album but from the 50's. Good songs, great voice. I have no complaints other than I haven't heard it enough to give it 5 stars.

Excelente!

Surprisingly shares a lot with Springsteen of the same era. Costello is a treasure.

Interesting vocal performance, even when it doesn't necessarily land. There isn't a bad track on here, though the ones that stand a cut above either have a strong lead guitar or well-tuned harmonization. Listened to: at Metrotech. Favorite tracks: Alison, Miracle Man, I'm Not Angry

Elvis was always a pop master. Never getting too punk, the hits here are always a pleasure to listen to.

Qué buen album se mandó el tipo. Simple, pero efectivo. 8/10

I didn't much like this album when Elvis burst out, sounded like 50's rock, an angry Buddy Holly and the Crickets like his Buddy glasses. It still sound like that to me now, but now I think an angry Buddy is a thing of beauty. This Year's Model and everything after changed my ears.

Always like Elvis.

Yeah probably a 4, that

Been a while since I've had an album I was already familiar with. Good stuff.

Acerbic

The rock may not roll the right way, but it definitely never gathers any moss....

Surprisingly good given how I've felt about previous Elvis Costello. I did still feel like I would rather be listening to Bruce Springsteen though

3.75

Pretty good. Feels very traditional rock n' roll initially which is surprising given its a '77 album. As it keeps going it changes a fair bit, I was not expecting the reggea-style "watching the detectives" All in all good mix, interesting if simple tracks

Nostalgic, retro fifties sound, with edgier lyrics.

People seemed worked up about the book's favoritism towards Elvis Costello. It's to the point where I feel that I'm one of the rare ones on this site that actually has an admiration for his work. Armed Forces wasn't the strongest bunch of tracks, but it got me to establish an understanding of Costello's style. His debut isn't the best either, but it's a sure improvement over what I last heard. There are effective earworms once again such as on Alison, Less Than Zero and Welcome To The Working Week. But the difference is in sheer consistency which I spot throughout most of this record. In addition, the bonus Watching The Detectives track puts a nice ribbon, though I wonder what's with Elvis Costello and leaving a great song off the original album. It happened with Peace, Love And Understanding on Armed Forces and once again with WTD here. Either way, I feel that this man speaks to me though he's yet to reach a certain level (8/10, 4/5 on this scale)

Have had this on vinyl since I started collecting back in college! A classic debut! Love love love!

Album 15/1001. Listened 2/2/2026 - Groundhog Day! Again, I knew more songs than I thought I would, and really enjoyed the ones I didn't know.

Welcome to the working week - 4 Miracle man - 3 No dancing - 5 Blame it on Cain - 4 Alison - 4 Sneaky feelings - 3 (The angels wanna wear my) red shoes - 4 Less than zero - 4 Mystery dance - 3 Pay it back - 4 I'm not angry - 4 Waiting for the end of the world - 4 * Watching the detectives - 4

4.5

My old band used to play Alison as part of our two hour at-times sloppy residency at some sports bar in Columbus. We half-assed a lot of songs, but we actually delivered this one pretty well. Watching the Detectives also great.

Temáticas interesantes, suena pegadizo todo el disco. Me guarde muchos temas.

9/10 this wa sells fun album with a lot of songs that felt ahead of their time and sounded like red hot chili peppers even, i would listen again

This was fine. I’ve never listened to a full Elvis Costello album and I liked it a tonne more that I thought I would. Some odd moments. Not prepared for a dash of reggae. Elvis’s voice grates occasionally. 4/5 to be generous.

Seems very safe for Elvis, thus very conventional rock to listen to. This is not a complaint.

Good stuff.

Welcome to the Working Week Alison (The Angels Wanna Wear My) Red Shoes Less Than Zero Watching the Detectives

Very good british r&b. good songs.

Interesting snapshot in time. Some straight up retro Elvis vibes, but also the blue print for 80s college rock and post grunge 90s pop à la the Rembrants.

Elvis Costello’s album My Aim is True is genuinely a fantastic album. The lyrics are fantastic. This is like the best of the 50s rock sound mixed with actually good lyrics. Highly recommend this album.

Alison and Red Shoes.

Every time I listen to this album it makes me feel the same way

Very amazing guitar parts, you can hear his love of music

I was pleasantly surprised! This album genuinely took me by surprise, I was grooving the entire way through and never once thought to skip a song, hell, I wasn't even looking at the music player! I thoroughly enjoyed myself ☺️ Favorite songs - Allison Sneaky feelings I'm not angry Rating 1-5 ~ 3.8

Mystery Dance is this album’s winner! Pretty cool how so much emotion is conveyed with so little. First, I sort of judged his vocal style as unpolished and raw. Then I realized he’s doing exactly what he wants, demonstrated by a different style, tone, grit, and range in every song. Awesome!

Ok, I get it. Elvis Costello can write decent music and songs. Not so sure why almost every album has to be included? Couple of bangers here, Alison & Detectives.

Yep, liked it. Full of energy, nice production, couple of true bangers. Nice!

A remarkable debut album but frustratingly inconsistent. There are brilliant songs like Alison and earworms like Watching The Detectives and Angles Wanna Wear My Red Shoes and even Welcome to the Working Week, but Costello sometimes descends into something that sounds like a lazy lounge act. Still, it's a great album that I find myself listening to over and over again and even the bits that are a bit grating at first eventually become part of its overall charm.

I have never heard of this album or artist before so here we go. I am hoping for something really good. Immediately, I like track 1 a lot. I am very hopeful for the rest of the album. I might even retract my statement from yesterday, where I said the first track of an album is almost never that good. It has a very 90's sound to it, it reminds me of Peyton Sawyer. I like track 2 a lot as well. Track 3 has a Beach Boy's kind of vibe to it. I do not like it as much as the first two tracks so far, but it is still very good. Track 4 has a very bluesy sound to it, I like it a lot. This is one of his more politically charged songs. Track 5 is more lyrical and melodic. It sounds nice but I definitely do not enjoy it as much as 1, 2, or 4. The same goes for track 6. I like track 7. Track 8 is another politically charged song, very nice. Track 9 definitely has some Elvis Presley vibes going on, which makes sense considering his name is inspired by Presley. Track 10 is very catchy. This album has been very good so far, but I would be lying if I said it was a perfect, no-skips album. Track 11 is so creative, I love the whispered background vocals. The guitar solos are so peak. Overall, this album has been really good and I hope to see more albums that are this good as I continue this project. Hopefully, a five-star album is coming my way soon.

Added to Megashuffle. Pretty good

Elvis mellan 77 och 80 är oefterhärmlig och hopplöst bra. Vad jag menar med det är att liksom; lägg av Elvis, det är bara popmusik, det behöver inte vara så vansinnigt bra, du sätter standarden för högt, du försöker nästan för mycket. De 3-4 första albumen plus de fristående singlarna (bl.a. hiten "Watching the detectives" som inte finns som albumspår) flyter ihop lite för mig ska jag medge, men jävlar vilken underbart kaxig och energistinn powerpop vi finner de här åren. Elvis uppfinner inget nytt, han tar nåt gammalt och beprövat och blåser ny ungdomlig energi i det. Han gör rocken rastlös igen, en underskattad egenskap. My aim is true är 27 minuter lång, 12 spår, inte en död sekund, en perfekt popplatta. Och Elvis är redan från starten här en lysande låtskrivare, fullfjärdrad. Ingen kan klaga på hans hantverk. Labelkollegan Nick Lowe, (vars plattor från samma tidsperiod också är vansinnigt bra), har producerat en skiva som tog 24 timmar att spela in och kostade bara runt 2000 pund på en åttakanalare. För att citera Pop #10 "Detta är, enkelt uttryckt, en stunds sjuhelsikes rock’n’roll. Dynamisk och demonisk." Subtilt i det småschackrutiga omslaget står det överallt "Elvis is king", det är svårt att inte gilla den kaxigheten och dessutom hålla med. Snubblar på en femma

Klart bättre än den Costello vi tidigare fått framslumpat. Här finns ett skönt somligt rock n roll groove i det punkiga anslaget som jag gillar. Det känns inte på något sätt krystat att dra paralleller till Dpringsteens första album. Förutom finfina samarbetet med Burt Bacharach det klart bästa jag hört med Costello.

Här är Costello riktigt bra. Överlag starka låtar och bra framförande. Sinnebild en av den coola tönten. A-sidan bättre än b-sidan. B-sidan innehåller 50-talsrocken Mystery dance som gärna hade fått lämnas utanför. Skivan för mig på gott humör.

Love the sound design. You feel like you’re listening to a concert!

I really liked the vocals and the guitar. Its the kind of upbeat album I could have playing while I work on something creative. I've not listened to Elvis Costello before so I enjoyed getting to know his early work a bit better.

4.5/5 - Costello's incredible debut. Alison, less than zero, (The angels wanna wear my) red shoes, and watching the detectives

Æ tror kanskje aldri æ har hørt på Elvis Costello, og det her va et rart sted å begynne, men kanskje det dukke opp nokka anna æ like bedre etterhvert?

Ever heard the theory that Elvis Costello and Lenny Kravitz have the exact same voice? You have now

Very polished 70’s nightclub kind of sound. Then you get to alison, and that one stands out above the rest.

Worst Album Art Award 🏆 Elvis Costello seems to be a natural inhabitant of the four-star zone for me. He'll venture out to other star ratings sometimes, but four is his home.

Fun album, got some songs which really stick out and are memorable!

I could get into Elvis Costello

Really solid album, I like how it calls back to 1950s music and all. I think it’s a little bit better than some of this modern music, as a solid four star record.

I like it - some of the songs are better than I thought But didn’t really grab me as an album

I feel like the more you listen to this the better it will get—I also think if some of these songs were released as steely dan I would love them, so I will rate this with that in mind

Great!

Very old fashion but groovy baby!!

enjoyed thoroughly

ik im judging a book by its cover but let’s see what this is about😁STARTING OFF STRONG HOLD ONN. I’m actually enjoying this album it’s the perfect style where it’s upbeat and can get me hyped but not too hyped. Like a mellow version of hyped where I can do a lil dancey dance but not go crazy. Sounds like something greasers would listen to. I think this is the shortest album I’ve ever seen. It was only 36 mins but I enjoyed it the wholeeeee time. The sound/genre is so interesting to me. I really like this album!!

Favourite Songs: Miracle Man Blame It On The Cain Less Than Zero

It might be the first time I’ve properly listened to Elvis Costello. I really love the clean guitar tone throughout the album.

As much as I think Costello is overrated (and certainly over-represented on this list), there's no denying this one's great. A classic, fully-formed debut.