My Aim Is True

ok

Just like all his other stuff but don't find it too interesting, feels like he has 1 or 2 songs on an album that are really nice and then lots of fillers which are very forgettable

OK British rock

The author of this book must have an Elvis Costello kink, there's no reason to explain how many times ol' Declan has appeared... Anyway, another bland album that has 2 hot songs, in this case "Alison" and "(The Angels Wanna Wear My) Red Shoes", but is that enough?? Maybe the 1001 author should just have included an Elvis Costello greatest hits album and spare us the misery of 6 of his albums? Oh well, 4 down, the only way is up, right?

Pretty cool, old fashioned sound.

I maybe recognized "Alison", but other than that, didn't know this artist beforehand. Pleasantly surprised. It's just a really good straight up rock n roll album, calling back to 50s era rock while infusing it with some more modern elements. His voice is energetic and ever-so-slightly over-the-top, but never grating. There's elements of rock, blues, folk, even reggae present. Will definitely be looking forward to another album by this artist.

Back-to-back Elvis at 404

Inside 3 but almost 4

I think I like it. I really don't know. It's hard to listen to his voice, it grates, and the chords he chooses, the way they unfold, also grates. But when I follow the lyrics, and see how the whole of the album has it's unified story it's impressive. I've struggled with listening to it several times and I keep thinking it's worth the effort. I could see it being a 4 stars, but let's go three for today (or three for this week, it has been quite the struggle)

My first Elvis Costello album and I happen to know he has a few on this list. I just hope his other efforts are better than his debut. It came out in 1977 so it's nothing particularly groundbreaking for the time. This album is just incredibly okay. Not unpleasant to the ears. Consistent, yes, but only consistently tolerable. He has a very distinct voice and the music is playful enough to get along with. I most likely won't revisit this one or go out of my way to stick it on, but I wouldn't turn it off if it came on. Nothing special whatsoever.

This was a fun album at a point in time. Doesn’t have the stamina for greatness.

Just awesome. What a great debut album. The weakest song on here, maybe Mystery Dance, would be the best song half the albums on this list. Bonus 6th star for the first song I heard on this Monday morning being Welcome to the Working Week.

1. uueek - 1 2. miracle - 1 3. dancing - 1 4. cain - 1 5. alizon - 1.5 6. feelingz - 1 7. red zhouez - 1 8. zero - 1.5 9. myztery - 1.5 10. pay - 1.5 11. angry - 1.5 12. uuorld - 1.5 13. detectivez - 1

Well to be honest, I expected better. Whether I would feel differently if I had heard the whole album at the time I don't know, but hearing it now it just doesn't have the 'je ne se pas' of his early singles, and 'Watching The Detectives' seems almost out of place. I'm a big fan of his early singles, but this is decidedly ordinary. Just a 2.

Not my favourite genre by any stretch but quite liked the short opener and the bass driven second track ‘Miracle Man’. But it’s the more pop/rock n roll/doo-wap-crap tracks that are bile inducing. And there are plenty of those.

I've always had a problem with Elvis Costello with both his music and his image. Not as bad as Shakin' Stevens with the old late 50's early 60's styling, but more of a 'secret lemonade drinker' sort of thing. He would have been more at home on Jimmy Saville's old record club on a Sunday afternoon. Musically, the first half fit my description above to a tee, even down to the wierd fake American accent. But the last 4 or so songs it got better and more contemporary (for 1977). One of his best songs the last, wasn't even included on the original release so if that isn't counted then it's a 1 star.

Enjoyed this more than expected. She Is Watching The Detectives is great though I guess a single haha.

One of my faves growing up, and it doesn't disappoint after all these years. just a great album start to finish.

First time listening to an Elvis Costello album. It’s a bit cheesy, but it’s engaging enough. He has a very distinct voice and the music is playful enough to get along with. Probably won’t revisit this one, but I won’t turn it off if I hear it again.

Not for me. 1/5

i'm tired of this guy

Comfy music, not too daring. Apparently this guy was something of a chameleon, but I at least recognized this album as fairly normal. Maybe the more eclectic stuff wasn't as popular.

This started off as a 2 but is now a light 3. There are some good songs but something about “Elvis Costello” seems kinda lame to me.

as much as i dislike elvis costello, this album actually wasn’t too bad.

This is my 4th Elvis Costello album in a month it feels like. They’ve all just been noises that sound the same to me. Nothing stood out. I get it that the guy that wrote this book loves Elvis Costello but I now actively dislike the fucking guy because it shirts just so bland. Love sone of the albums he produced, though, But this album is different. It wasn’t as boring as the others. So, yay, I guess.

Finally, I get to Elvis, who apparently saturates this project, and with good reason. Underrated in the US, this may be the best thing imported from England. Sharp lyrics, slightly refined punk mixed with several America musical styles. This album is fast, has attitude, and was quite a debut. Oddly, I'm a casual Elvis fan having less than 20 of his albums, mostly on vinyl.

It was good, and i Enjoyed it but nothing particularly special and nothing really stood out for me, not sure i’d go back to it.

Still sounds fresh and energetic. Two singles are good but is the rest bordering on filler. I'm undecided and it doesn't interest me enough to work it out.

cover gave me a headache 3 stars

An album well know to me. all the songs are familiar and all are thoroughly enjoyable to listen to

Great vibe here, interesting lyrics and a lot of good energy.

I generally enjoyed this album, but it’s the third Elvis Costello album. I’ve listened to on this list and I’ve been listening to these for less than a month now. I’m not not sure. I understand why he needs so much representation. I didn’t find this one terribly different than the other two I listened to, but I may give it another listen at some point in time.

Perhaps starting to ‘get’ Costello after listening to two albums. I can see his appeal to the adolescent who was too cool for ABBA and too sensitive for punk back in 1977. But the appeal is not there for me. Favourite songs were the bluesy Blame It On Cain and Waiting For The End Of The World.

Many of these tracks are etched into my brain from hearing them a lot as a kid, so I don’t know how much is enjoyment on their own merit vs familiarly. Blame it on Cain / Watching the detectives highlights for me

Growing on me with more listens. It's neat songwriting overall. There are tunes which are much better than others, Blame It On Cain being an example, but it doesn't have the same urgency as This Year's Model. There is an argument that it's a better vocal performance however!

This album was a lot less annoying than This Year's Model and I enjoyed some of the tracks. Still not really my thing though, mainly due to his vocals.

Utterly brilliant and made me happy.

Not my jam

Didn’t really hit for me

Not a ton of standouts to me (aside from realizing about halfway through one of the songs that it was called Alison and also spelled my way, so kudos), but this was pleasant. It’s interesting to hear what sounds like early ska influencers in his music

I liked this overall as a sound. I always find it interesting to listen to Elvis Costello because I never think the music makes sense for when it is coming out (1977).

It was certainly fine, but nothing grabbed my attention.

Would rate 3.5 if I could. Fun album, some weaker tracks

I’m not a stickler for authenticity but Elvis Costello just comes off so fake.

I like Elvis Costello when he's curating songs. I'm not a fan of his rock n roll/rhythm and blues/honky tonk stuff. Alison and My Aim is True are stand out songs for me from this album. The only one I really liked and didn't know was 'waiting for the end'. Sounds very Graham Parker.

My first time hearing Costello was in December of last year, with the album "This Year's Model" with his band The Attractions. This isn't quite as strong. Something about his voice frustrates me, like it's in an uncanny valley between a few other, better vocalists. He sounds *kind of* like Billy Joel, the better Elvis, the Strokes, and a few other rock bands from various eras mashed together. Another problem, related to that one, is that the music doesn't really bring anything new to the party, other than some decent compositions. The style is an odd sort of soft-punk, with clear 50s/60s R&B and rock influences. (My friend and I argued briefly about whether this counted as rock, and we couldn't come to an agreement. But being "genreless" isn't necessarily a good thing.) There's a lot of filler music and poor mixing on the album too. As for the positives: Watching The Detectives, Alison, Red Shoes, and Less Than Zero are really fun little tunes, especially when paying attention to the instrumentals only. Watching The Detectives has a great bassline that really holds the song together. Alison is an enjoyable sort of chill power pop, featuring a chorus that sounds exactly how you'd expect based on the title and genre. Throughout the album, the guitar and drums are generally pretty good, and the bass is pretty killer. 3/5 Key tracks: Alison, (The Angels Wanna Wear My) Red Shoes, Less Than Zero, Watching The Detectives

liked the vibes

hated the last album i heard from him. this is definitely more enjoyable i hate to say it but this is kind of good

I still don’t like him, but this is better than other albums.

Like a few songs and performed Alison 100s of times

The singles/known songs are good, but the rest is eh

I'm familiar with most of the "big" songs, this is the first time listening to this full album. Nothing grabbing me positive or negative. Interesting things learned while listening/reading about: Clover was the backing band here. John McFee (late stage Doobies) was a member of Clover & plays lead guitar. Neat cover, iconic image of Elvis here. Favorites: "Welcome to the Working Week" Least Favorites: "Mystery Dance" (2x) 3 Stars

6.5/10. Oh, nice! This album generated only a couple of hours after I listened to it. :) Elvis Costello's music isn't my cup of tea. It gives me R.E.M. vibes, but with some added blandness, and less memorability.

This album was average, nothing terrible but nothing jumped out at me. I thought throughout that I wanted to be enjoying it more but something kept me holding out.

Some people love this guy, I'm not a superfan, but can listen to him every now and then. I wouldn't go out of my way to add him to a playlist.

Kind of boring

This is in my record collection. Fabulous album. Great debut album. Alison was thought of as one of the first punk love songs.

Geee, why am I still here? Just to suffer? Best song: No Dancing Worst song: (The Angels Wanna Wear My) Red Shoes

The Elvis Costello curse continues. 6% of my albums generated thus far have been Costello albums, help me. I have nothing new to say, just that I appreciated the reggae infused closing track. Best song: Watching the Detectives Worst song: Mystery Dance

A good album overall. The big hit Allison was my favorite song.

This is probably his “best” album. But he just can’t help himself to be annoying AF.

Not a bad song on this album, but the production is too basic. Sounds as if something is missing. His next 2 albums are much better. I don't think this needs to be on the list. Favorite song: Welcome to the working week.

Pleasantly surprised! I actually enjoyed this more than I thought I would. Some songs remind me of Dylan, others Springsteen.

Well, well, well, well, well, well. It took long enough. If there's one thing that's kind of infamous about the 1001 albums list (in my eyes), it would be the fact that Elvis Costello of all people has 6 whole albums on the list (1 for each "well" at the beginning of this review). Despite that, I have just now gotten my first Elvis Costello album over a year into the project. Statistically speaking, I should've gotten two or three of them by now, but I guess I had to wait. So, is my first impression of Elvis Costello a positive one? Yeah. I'd say it is. I really liked this album. My Aim is True is a strong debut album. Costello's voice is alright. I like other vocalists more, but he definitely isn't a bad vocalist. The sound is great. There's a consistent feel to it all, but there is a strong variety between songs. Comparing a song like "Welcome to the Working Week" to "Allison," the latter of which is probably my favorite from the album, really shows this. Like, you can tell this is the same artist and the same instruments. And yet, the vibes are pretty different, so that's good. The writing is also quite good. Apparently some of the book's selections as far as highlighted artists were made because of good songwriting, and Elvis Costello is an example of that. You know what? I can see it. These songs are good. There really isn't a particularly bad one. So, do I think Elvis Costello is worthy of being on the list? Yes. I do think that My Aim is True is a good enough and popular enough album to warrant being on the list. Is he worthy of having 6 albums? Well, we'll see about that when I get the other ones. For now, my opinion is positive. High 4/5.

very very cool

Average

All the EC albums are the same. You want to love them, but the album is not lovable.

Not sure who's got a boner for Elvis Costello, but it sure isn't me. This is the fifth album by him and I really wish someone would explain to me why this, which all sounds roughly the same, is great.

I’m with hellyeah on this one - the most enjoyable Elvis Costello album. I’m still not sold on his voice, but it worked well enough on “My Aim is True.” It’s a small thing, but I also dig using a line from a song rather than a song title for the album title. “Alison” was a deserved hit, but “(The Angels Wanna Wear My) Red Shoes” was the more grating side of Costello I’m not a fan of. “Less Than Zero” might have been my favorite on the album though.

Best Elvis Costello album on the list. Guess he should have stopped at one album, just like this list should have stopped after including one EC album (six EC albums on this list is obscene).

Well, well, well. Elvis Costello’s career started at the peak and gradually went down the shitter. My opinion of My Aim Is True was polluted by my distaste for his later works. But in opposition to his career trend, this album gets stronger over its run. So I listened again, and now again, and… I FOUND AN ELVIS COSTELLO ALBUM I LIKE!!!!!!!!!

Decent, but not much stood out

Es gibt einzelne Lieder insgesamt von Elvis Costello, die ich sehr schätze. Ein ganzes Album war bis jetzt noch nicht dabei. Und schade, das änderte auch dieses Album nicht.

I liked this album, great listen.

All songs were quite similar but it wasn’t a bad listen overall

No shortage of Costello albums on this list, and most of the time I’m unimpressed. However, this one was pleasantly surprising. It is far more rock n roll with a bluesy feel. Elvis injects a little fun into the record and the kicks are catchy and get your toe tapping. This doesn’t make me a fan of his music, but should I meet a Costello head I would praise this album as some of my favorite tracks of his.

Classic Elvis Costello, many quality songs and a very pleasant listen

My Aim Is True is fine, but forgettable. I'm not sure why it's on this list, though I feel the same about a lot of albums. Elvis Costello clearly has some musical ability, but it's not the best or most interesting. He's not bad, but also not great either.

Great song writing, but Costello's rockabilly laced new wavey rock is a sometimes food for me.

My Aim is True Back when Elvis Costello’s songwriting was exciting and energetic with loads of great ideas, before he settled into writing rather flat and boring ’mature’ music. I do know this album somewhat, but I haven’t listened as much as This Year’s Model and Armed Forces, so it's nice refreshing my memory. It really is a great album - a direct, sharp, neurotic, wired and edgy 32 minutes (if you don’t include the excellent Watching the Detectives), with an engaging and exciting blend of punkish energy combined with classic rock, country, soul, 50s rock n roll and 60s pop influences. Welcome to the Working Week is a great burst of cynical energy, etMiracle Man has that great guitar motif, while No Dancing has the Spector drum pattern and vague soul feel with some nice acoustic guitar texture. Blame it On Cain is great and very Springsteen. It’s not something I’ve connected before and I’m not sure if that’s just because Springsteen has Adam Raised a Cain but I feel like there is a lot of Springsteen influence here, albeit through Costello’s more cynical British lens. Great song though. Alison is rightly a classic, a melody I could imagine Smokey Robinson singing in the early 70s, and just a lovely song, with a tenderness in contrast to much of the more bitter and angry lyrics elsewhere. Sneaky Feelings is a nice counterpoint to Alison’s more simple directness, a sweet little tune with a nice theme of secretiveness and mistrust. Red Shoes is a great track, one that just feels right in it’s construction, melody and lyric. Less than Zero uses the Twist and Shout riff and is another great 50is rocker with a great lyric. Mystery Dance is even more 50s and again has some Springsteen about it. Pay it Back has some great guitar and great energy. I’m Not Angry is perhaps the only misstep for me, the guitar is a little too sub-Mark Knopfler classic rock and feels slightly out of place. Waiting for the End of the World though is superb, a great finish. Love the groove in the riff and the drum sound is excellent. Great track. Overall this is an excellent album, a great distillation of early Costello, some great, if mean spirited, lyrics and some superb songs. 5. 👠👠👠👠👠 Playlist submission: Alison

Not exactly my thing

Although I don't mind Elvis Costello, not an out and out fan, I listened to this from beginning to end. It went on and on, way too long to put on as one continuous listen.

Welcome to the Working Week - 6/10 sounds like an intro to a Disney show or something lol Miracle Man - 6/10 no comment No Dancing - 6.5/10 This one is a little catchy! I love the groovy guitars. Blame it on Cain - 7/10 is this one of those albums where it gets better the more you listen to it? because this one is so good Alison - 7/10 I'm a sucker for slow songs with good vocals Sneaky Feelings - 6.5/10 This song sounds like a kids song...can't put my finger on it. Remember when the song slowly fading out was a thing? (The Angels wanna Wear My) Red Shoes - 7.5/10 This entire album sounds like they belong on a kid's show like Curious George. I mean this in a good way because curious George is so good fr. OOH, harmonization! This guy likes to repeat the last thing for the last few seconds of the song LOL Less than Zero - 5.5/10 no comment Mystery Dance - 6.5/10 Okay intro eating. Lyrics are questionable...because do tell me about this mystery dance, sir! Pay it Back - 5/10 Okay pay it back, sir I'm not Angry - 7/10 ooh the part where it got quieter kind of tickled my ears. He ate with that. Waiting for the End of the World - 6.5/10 okay this one is groovy. Beginning lyrics threw me off a little because wdym stick it in? minus .5 for that Watching the Detectives - 4/10 No Comment Overall: 6.2/10

Yes!!!!

It's not bad; it's just Elvis Costello. So altogether it's kinda average.

Something about this dork really grinds my gears. Even the way he’s standing on the album cover. Idk it was fine I guess but the whiny-ness of is voice is a bit grating. Alison is kind of an ear worm though

nahhhhhh

This album was fantastic! I’ve not listened to a lot of Elvis Costello, but that is about to change. Albums like this are why I signed up!

I love this album, from its punk energy to its country rock roots. Elvis's voice was fully formed from the start and the songs are all singalong bangers (even Alison, which is way overplayed on classic rock radio).

Ok

Like all Elvis costello

On first listen sounds like the bridge between poodle skirts and punk rock

Welcome to the Working Week 3.6 Miracle Man 3.7 No Dancing 3.2 Blame It on Cain 3.8 Alison 4.2 Sneaky Feelings 3.9 (The Angels Wanna Wear My) Red Shoes 4 Less Than Zero 4 Mystery Dance 3 Pay It Back 3.1 I'm Not Angry 4 Waiting for the End of the World 3.4 Watching the Detectives 4.3 Score: 3.707692308

This is like the fourth Costello album I've gotten, he's really grown on me. I like the plucky bass lines, his cool guy nerd vibes. Good stuff

I liked it! The Vibe: You ran away from home and are happily making a new life for yourself in a big city far from the oppressive little town you came from.

front-heavy but a fun one

Musically this is fine, but man I can't stand Elvis Costello for some reason.i dunno I guess he's just lame. 2/10 Bland.

Hard to quantify how he knocked it out of the park right out the gate. Pub and punk rock at there elemental forms couldn't contain his musical and lyrical depths and forward looking aesthetic.

A solid record with a couple of really good songs

Nice bouncy album but most tracks v similar welcome to the working week classic tune

I honestly don't get the hype. Would this guy even be famous if he hadn't changed his name and have the fortune of having an album gain popularity in the wake of [the other] Elvis's passing?

like yes but also yeah

it was bad and then really good and then really really bad on the last track 2.5-3/5

I feel like I shouldn't like this but I think it was fine, short enough to be groovy/swingy. Never listened to this dude before. Better than 3/5 but could def get old.

Okay, some great songs but overall didn't hold my attention

Catchy power pop. Definite 50s/early 60s influence with its short, spunky songs and old-school production. Highlights: "Miracle Man", "No Dancing" (nice backing harmonies), "Sneaky Feelings" (Randy Newman-esque in piano and vocals)

2.5

Mid

I just can't get excited about Elvis Costello.

A good memory of being a kid in the backseat. So interesting to find out that it's his debut, and that the backup band wasn't the Attractions, just Clover (who didn't even really get credited). Most surprising to learn Watching the Detectives was added for the American version: I always thought it was odd for a final track

This album is great! Really great energy and lots of bits that I would listen to again. Fav: red shoes or welcome to the working week

Overall a great album! Some fun and upbeat tracks that uplifted my mood but didn’t overstay their welcome either. The only reason this isn’t 5 stars is because the genre of this just isn’t something I can enjoy on THAT deep of a level. Great job Elvis Costello 💲. Favourite song: Mystery dance

No why are they all so bad The only song that didn’t make me want to bleach my ears was blame it on Cain

🎶 Oh Alison, I know this album is killing you 🎶

Pretty good listen 🤠🤠🤠

Very blah, I didn’t care much for it

Ok

Fun style. A couple of standout tracks like Allison and Less Than Zero.

Fun album. I'll listen to this one again.

This album cover is offensive to the eyes

I liked it while I was listening but I could not name or remember a song from this album.

didn’t give an in depth listen but a good vibe!

Peak Elvis Costello - Alison is easily my favorite song of his. Lots of great stuff on here, no complaints at all

One of the all time great debuts. Alison alone is worth the price of admission

A true classic. What an album!

Fine

Really good songs here

Not my style but not a bad listen.

Not bad, kinda weird.

I don't have any prior familiarity with Costello. Gave this one a few listens and it was okay. Nothing incredible but I do think a few songs could grow on me.

cool

Similar of the Springsteen of the same era. First one I’ve listened to more than once - and returned the next day to boot. Love this.

I can't disrespect Elvis Costello but it's just not working for me.

a bit annoyin

good stuff

Probably wouldn't listen again, why does he want to be American so bad?

Enjoyed some songs.

meh

hjv

Classic

Short and catchy

Not my favorite of Elvis Costello. It's still fine, and not a bad debut, but in my opinion, he gets better in the 80's.

My second Elvis Costello album and it may already be wearing thin. Nothing on here that makes me want to go back to it and struggling to find a standout track.

Hit my taste

i think that his music would work best in the context of a movie soundtrack because the songs are fun but i don't have any desire to listen to a full album of them, nor do i want to concentrate on them individually as works of art. i could see them providing fun dynamic background music for a good shopping mall montage. fav tracks: miracle man; no dancing

I really wasn't into this album and about half way through I was actually going to call it quits because I just couldn't foresee the remainder being good enough to redeem it for me. I didn't really like the reggae/ska (?) elements and it felt hokie. This is already the second Elvis Costello album we've gotten despite only being on our ninth album in this challenge and while I enjoyed the other one we listened to, I wasn't sure if I was really getting why he was considered such a big deal. I was researching on his Wikipedia and saw this: "Costello's debut album, My Aim Is True, is widely considered one of the best debut albums in the history of rock music." I read on about how it influenced so much of punk rock and new wave, and read excerpts from a variety of artists across genres (and other professions within entertainment) who have been influenced by him. Suzanne Vega has said that he's one of the "melodic geniuses" whose music she listens to in order to "stretch [her] sense of melody". This shifted how I listened to the rest of the album; I appreciated the melodies and compositions a lot more, and I could see why this is technically a good, well-made album. I still don't think it's for me and I far prefer "This Year's Model", but I can see now why this has been influential and can recognize when something is good but not my taste.

Watching the Detectives is my favorite Costello song, so it gets a 5. The rest of the album is good but not great. 3.5 stars.

Not great, but still better than Presley.

First Costello album out of several hundred on this list. And if I were to guess, I’d guess that this is the only one that truly deserves its place. Several good songs, with Alison being the cream of the crop. After Less than Zero the quality drops a bit, but ends on a high with the reggae number Watching the Detectives.

honestly freaking funnn lol baby’s first costello

i think i liked it idk

idk

Just not a fan of Costello. Have a hard time maintaining my attention for him and his music.

Now this is what I’m talking about! I listened another album of his that was just unremarkable. Now this wasn’t the greatest ever but it’s more memorable and has more character.

sincerely one of my favorite albums of all time. i like a lot of elvis costello's stuff but i can't say i am a super fan. but this one always stands the test of time for me. every song here, to me, is like an exercise in writing short, great, hooky power pop tunes. every song has a hook and they have all gotten stuck in my head at one point or another. of course, it wouldn't be elvis costello without his signature lyricism style, and i really do love the production here from nick lowe.

Cool album

Bueno

6.5/10

Fun album for sure. I’ve always enjoyed what I’ve listened to of Elvis Costello, so I figured it would resonate with me.

Not good

I never listened to Elvis Costello before 30 seconds into the 2nd track I gave this album 5 stars and I was not disappointed.

Excellent! Great sound.

Cool, has some classics - normal rock

A great little album, with some great lyricism, It often feels like a coming of age album something it rolls with perfectly. This is demonstrated best in tracks like "welcome to the working week", "mystery dance" and Allison". Other tracks such as "sneaky feelings" add a bit more flavour and still feel fresh touching on odd subjects whilst remaining upbeat. The albums biggest sin is there isnt enough musical variety. Often the songs bog down into one another and there isnt a clear stand out sound between tracks. I give this album a 4 simply because the system does not allow any more nuanced of a grading. Its stronger than a 3 but not quite strong enough to warrant a strong 4.

Oddly felt like this was a parody album. Didn't feel genuine or moving at all. Gonna give this a 1.2.

Cool little record - took the “corniness” out of 50s music style. I like it. Certainly better than a lot of other crap on this list. Gave it a three.

Listened loud on vinyl to flex in my own sad little head on the anti Elvis chuckleheads you find here. Cool story (did this while at a day job punching cards at a makeup company I think). Cool sound. Interestingly the record I have contains watching the detectives, although apparently this was a single only at first? Nevertheless, one of my favorite drum parts - if the UK really knew what was up this skittery noise would be the basis of jungle/drum and bass variants. WTD aside, lots of poetic anger about wage slaving, unhappy marriage settling, sexual repression, semi original sin (what do we call Cain's transgression anyway) etc. It's a good album.

Fun

Some great moments!

- Warum kannte ich von diesem Album so viele Songs. - Wir hatten ja schon zwei Costelle&Attraction Alben und habe ich so viel wiedererkannte. - Mir hat die Platte echt richtig Spaß gemacht. - Für mich war Costello immer so eine Randerscheinung der Zeit, das hat sich mit dem Hören dieses Albums bei mir jedoch geändert. 4/5

- okay, aber irgendwie hat für mich nichts herausgestochen -

3.6

Até parece um pop bem feito, mas é muito carregado da sensação de ser massante.

Very good album, highly recommend, it’s really good and well made, like jazzy, very upbeat. Very good to lounge on. 8.7/10.

A pretty amazing collection of crafted angsty punk with pop sensibilities. Engaging lyrics and Elvis' delivery is sneery and gives what is singer-songwriter level content a great punch. There not a bad song on the album, with lots of catchy hooks and great variety.

Probably not an artist I would seek out but the album was good to hear. An easy 3*

Sucks

not bad

Another great Costello album with the three big singles (Welcome to the Working Week, Alison, and Red Shoes) being the standouts but a load of other solid tracks alongside them. The only real misfire is Mystery Dance, which just sounds like a bad impression of the other Elvis

He's pretty good at songs isn't he. Fair play. Best Track: Watching the Detectives Worst Track: Pay it Back

Becoming a certified Elvis Costello fan Best Song: Blame it on Cain Worst Song: (The angels wanna wear my) red shoes

It was alright. Wasn't terrible, songs were ok but didn't really like his voice to be honest Probably would have scored higher with a different singer 3 ⭐️

Very sloppy performance and production. No memorable songs. At least there’s a nice energy behind it.

Ew

not my cup of tea

While this was ahead of its time, in my infants opinion this album doesn’t hold up in the current era. That said you can definitely hear Costello’s influence in modern day pop rock. 3/5

If Elvis's "aim" was to infuriate my ears, then he is correct. I heard they play songs like these at grocery markets to get you out of the store quicker.

Noteworthy songs - 808080808 Magical Dream - Kinda catchy synth, but the rest is bland. Ancodia - Good background noise. Cobra Bora - Actually kind of cool, reminds me of Bomberman Hero. Pacific 202 - N64 vibes, but melody isn't great. Donkey Doctor - Nothing too special, weird ending. 808080808 - Really cool beginning. A little slow in the middle but stays interesting enough. Sunrise - Nothing remarkable. The Fat Shadow - Eerie. Very short.

Always fun

It's a nice album, not my style but its good.

You cannot deny this this is a cool rock and roll record, although it didn't set me alight. Favourite tracks: Welcome To The Working Week, Miracle Man, Watching The Detectives (banger).

I was familiar with "Watching the Detectives". Good song. I gave the album a couple of listens and none of the other songs really stood out. the album has a retro sound that reminds me of earlier rock days. It also seems like Billy Joel, but doesn't have the awesome melodies.

I've long struggled with appreciating Elvis Costello. That said, listening to this album and Armed Forces makes me think that I like his earlier stuff better, and (maybe oddly) the songs work together as an album.

Like Leonard Cohen and Frank Zappa, Elvis Costello is one of those artists I've heard about plenty, but somehow never gotten exposed to - or at least, not in a way I remember. Despite all the comparisons to Dylan, was surprised by how much I enjoyed this. Though some of it is a bit too lo fi/sounds like it's being played through a tin can, the songs have great energy, enough variety to the sound (straight rock, a little twangy in places, rockabilly in others) and compelling (though note entirely catchy) lyrics.

3/5

This album was a lot of fun.

70’s

HA! Just yesterday I got the 5th Elvis Costello album. Not 24 hours later I get the 6th and final one. My views haven't changed in 24 hours. This album wasn't needed. At least it was short.

Meh

My favourite Elvis.

Wonderful album of alternative rock and new wave. The nerdy king of cool Elvis Costello rocks my favorite guitar of all time (Fender Jazzmaster). Defying the standards of late 70's cool. Costello brings back a bit of doo wop swing, blues rock and a simple form of new wave/alternative to the masses. I love this album for how easy it is to listen to, sounds fresh after 40 years and isn't outwardly complicated. Full five stars from me.

Album 478 of 1001 Elvis Costello - My Aim Is True Rating : 5 / 5 Though I've never owned this album, It has crossed my path several times over the past (almost) half century and I have enjoyed it every time. Think I appreciated it more this time. He writes some good tunes.

He was a trendsetter then and a wizened and still talented musician now. Plus, he's married to one of the great jazz and standards singers of the 21st century. WTG.

Having listened to this album at times throughout the years, I was prepared to give it a 4⭐️ review, but quickly found that I enjoyed it more than that. Classic.

His best album.

Incredible record, still in love with it after all these years

Didn’t really capture my attention

Not bad but nothing too exciting.

I understand what they were trying to do. A lot of rythm switches and experimental time signatures, but it also has to sound good. 3/5

An almost flawless debut by Elvis Costello.

Enjoyable but I’m unlikely to return. 3.5/5

His first and maybe his best album. 3.5

Allison but that's about it. Didn't really like it.

Good

My first of many Elvis Costello albums! I liked this, it was fun to listen to. But I'm not sure I'd ever go out of my way to listen to it.

It was quite good. I knew almost all the songs already.

Easiest to listen to. I like this album.

Even though I am not fond of Costello's tamber and stylistic idiosyncrasies, his song writing is impeccable. I grew up on this album and it's incredible

I keep wanting to give this guy a chance, but man I find this so boring and inconsequential, almost grating. I just can't. Too many of his records on this list, I hope this is the last one.

zajebisty rock

I either love his songs or can't stand them, usually. Most of these I couldn't stand. About 2.5 rounded up.

Really didn't care for this. Not bad, just not my thing. I could have lived a hundred lifetimes without listening to a single one of these songs and not miss them. Favorite track: "Mystery Dance." Also, I was tempted to take off a Star because of the illegibility of the album art.

Thoughts before listening: I've seen a lot of people complaining in reviews on here about the amount of Elvis Costello on this list. I don't get the hate. Dude writes some super catch power pop songs. I own this album and think it's great. Review: This is a very good album, even if it doesn't have my favorite Elvis Costello songs. This was his debut, and I think albums like This Year's Model and Armed Forces are more consistent. That being said, there are some bangers here: "Alison", "(The Angels Wanna Wear My) Red Shoes", "Less Than Zero", and "Watching the Detectives" are all great. 4-stars

Another easy 5 star. The Angels Wanna Wear My Red Shoes, and Waiting for the End of the World are perfect songs for X-Day! They are on my saucer Playlist. Praze "Bob"

I don’t get how Elvis Costello ends up on every top albums list, with half of his catalog making it onto these lists. He’s not THAT good to deserve such recognition multiple times. The first album I heard from him was awful, and the second one was just as bad. Strangely enough, after giving that second album another try, it sounded much better. The same thing happened with this album. I played it and hated it, even drafted a review about how bad it was, but decided to give it a second chance. On the second listen, it improved a lot. To be clear, I’m not saying it’s good, just average. The constant praise for his albums being on top albums lists everywhere is baffling to me.

own

Eh

Recognizable songs. Has a honkytonk feel on some songs.

Elvis Costello has always seemed to be the quintessential nerd. He has intelligence, charm, talent (music, in this case), and pseudo-confidence. I say pseudo because he has always been excluded from acceptance because of his appearance and height. He is like the Superman motif: “If only they knew who I really am!” Or maybe I’m projecting. This album is great. Upbeat, fun, witty, catchy. Straight good times.

I'm not listening to another Elvis Costello album.

I am so excited to review another Elvis Costello album. I am so glad there are 57 Elvis Costello albums to review for this exercise. I look forward to each one more than the last. Costello reinvigorated the literate, lyrical traditions of Bob Dylan and Van Morrison with the raw energy and sass that were principal ethics of punk, delivering passion and intelligence with equal measure. I love it when Elvis Costello covers relationships with biting sarcasm and wordplay, combining jazzy guitars with soulful vocals. I love his hats, almost as much as I love Jamiroquai's. His dress style is so rockabilly, which is aces. To think, this was his debut album, in 1977, setting off a career without comparison. His aim was surely true.

Cool style, but an extremely okay album?

Enjoyable listen, but probably wouldn't put the album on out of my own volition.

I actually enjoyed this immensely. Lots of different sounds in here and you can here how it's influenced many bands after him.

For me, Elvis Costello is a paradox. While I think he is fascinating musically and personally, I am not a huge fan of his music. Having said that, when I do settle down and listen his lyrics are thoughtful and I like how he ventures into different genres. Weirdly and irrationally, I am going to give this recording a 4...

Solid debut album

Definitely will be revisiting this. Just classic, reliably great songwriting and delivered with such passion and energy.

This is the third Elvis Costello album I've had (of six I think...oy vey). I think I like this one better than the other two, but it's just kind of meh. It's not bad, but a lot of the songs sound the same and it gets boring after a while. Not something I'd consider an essential listen. 3/5

Nuevamente hoy toca ponerse por primera vez con un disco completo de un artista que ya he escuchado alguna que otra vez. Arranca y se mantiene con un estilo new wave, sorprendentemente en la misma época en que el punk rock aparece. Sutilezas con Bowie (Less than zero), con Elvis (Mystery Dance) y cerrando con un reggae. Muy buen comienzo de un tipo particular.

it’s just good dance vibes and just fun to listen to

Love watching the detectives but the rest didn't really do anything for me.

I just listened to Armed Forces (Elvis w/ The Attractions) a couple weeks ago and enjoyed it so much more than this. I'd be willing to give this another go, but first impression was underwhelming.

This album is better than the other one on the list. Hoping there's not a third by him on here. 2.7.

This is less offensive than the rest of his catalog. Personal enjoyment: 3/5 Relevance to this list: 3/5

One of those people where I perceive they're held in high regard - and I absolutely can't connect to what they're doing. It's pleasant enough, but it doesn't stand out to me in any way.

Nope.

pretty good but not memorable 3/5

Catchy and interesting album. Probably not a full 4 but a 3.5 at least.

One of the few elvis Costello albums actually somewhat worthy of the list

There's a strange vibe around women here. It's hard to pinpoint exactly where the feeling creeps in while listening to the album. Maybe it was the time? Overall, it has a fun sound, and the songs are interesting.

So many great, undeniable tunes. A ridiculous collection for a first album. Sounds great as well.

Great

Can't go wrong with early Elvis.

One of my favorite albums from that time and still today. Great lyrics, great pace and Elvis At his best!!

Enjoyed it more than I thought I would. Good songs.

I don’t like this kind of Elvis Costello

A good monday track to wake up to: “Welcome to the Working Week”

kind of similar to how i feel about Bruce Springsteen.

6 / 10 Pop Rock facilón pero bien hecho. Segundo disco de Elvis Costello, no creo que merezca tanto este tío.

Whilst it’s enjoyable there’s nothing that makes me want to relisten to it at a later date

My first of apparently 7 (!?) Costello albums on here. Nothing special, I quite liked Alison.

Solid listen. Alison is one of the most heartbreaking songs ever. Watching The Detectives is a stone cold classic. I just wish The Attractions were the backing band. Still, this will do.

This was so incredibly harmless that I don't know what to rate it. I guess someone needs to do background music for garden centers

I ised to not like Elvis Costello when I was a kid in the 80s they would play his stuff every now and them in Puerto Rico he was not as big but I only liked a handfull of songs over time. I looked at him and he looked goofy and like a character created based on Elvis Presley and Buddy Holly. Now as am adult Im really into his music and his albums as wholes are amazing. Just clean fun pop rock musis for everyone with songs the length of a punk song. Very unique style and good writing. I listened to this 2 times in a day. Would have mever listened to it as an album if it werent for this initiative. Everyone should have some costello in their playlists. Everyone.

Strong debut album. The songs were generally okay. I found them a bit boring to be frank.

A good sound typical of his era, reminds me of Tom Petty! Lacks the oomph or emotion that I want, maybe I’m just wanting to hear Petty?

Springsteen's silly younger brother. Huey's dad. I don't know. It's fine. Ed Debevics is a fun concept, but stick those characters next to real actors, or better yet, real personalities, and they shrink quick.

Excellent blend of power pop, punk, & rock. Clever lyrics and he's got a great voice.

The Elvis Costello track I’ve listened to the most overall is definitely the Kidney Now song from 30 Rock, so this was a fun change of pace from that.

Very Elvis Costello.

Not feeling it

Super easy to listen. It's this kind of happy rock you can easily dance to, which infects you with your good vibes. I already knew a couple songs in the album E.M.R.: 4/5

Mira que Elvis Costello té música bona, però aquest àlbum és la definició de mid. ELR: 3/5

First time actually listening to an Elvis Costello album and I have to say I really enjoyed it! Very good song writing!

MID

Sounds weirdly modern in terms of the music and themes.

my favorite costello ❤️❤️❤️

This one was fun AF! Costello really came out of the gate swinging.

Never been a big Costello fan - his style just always seemed.. cultivated to me. But this album has some good songs on it - I'm Not Angry was fun. It's crazy how this was so short compared to the other one, clocking in at only 36 min. And one song less than 2 minutes... just goes to show, as long as the melody and the story are put through, length is just not that important.

Elvis Costello is someone whose music I enjoy at times. I really like some of his songs, but I’ve liked a full album. That remains true with this album. There are a few really good songs and the rest are just filler to me. I think Detectives is probably my favorite song of his.

Overall solid if un-remarkable pop-rock album. Probably not gonna re-listen but I didn't dislike it. Best Song: Allison

This is the epitome of “butt rock” to me. The songs do nothing for me and the tinny production makes it unlistenable.

Hmm, It didn't really capture my interest. It's highly rated but I don't see the appeal...for me at least.

Elvis Costello’s debut is raw and contains the elements that would make punk music so interesting in the following years, but if pushed just slightly further, this thing could’ve been great.

Собственно говоря, снова неожиданно неплохо. Я никогда не слушал этого парня, и в целом это звучит гораздо менее натянуто, чем я представлял себе. Это всё еще не совсем моя музыка, но слушать это даже интересно. Лучшая песня - Alison.

I prefer Gram Parker…

One of my all time favs

Upbeat and enjoyable

Not bad.

No one writes or sings like Elvis Costello.

Love this album

Better than I expected—especially because I didn’t like the last EC album.

clever lyrics as usual. But not engaging to me.

El debut del legendario Elvis Costello es tan espectacular como sus primeros 10 años de carrera (gracias a la colaboración con The Attractions). A pesar de no interpretar con sus icónicos acompañantes, Costello nos muestra tremenda habilidad para escribir letras irreverentes que llenan canciones sumamente pegajosas, catapultando el subgénero del Power Pop a niveles que previamente se creían desconocidos (Con fracasos comerciales como Big Star y Badfinger). Mis canciones favoritas del trabajo son Miracle Man y Allison.

It wasn't my thing but I can see why people like it

Never realized how many classics came off his debut album. His whole sound and brand came out fully formed and fully trained. It’s such a lovely tribute to different styles of music. Retro made into something fresh. And so well written. Crazy impressive. Seriously, no wrong notes. Like this a whole lot more than I thought I would. How tf is this a debut?!

A classic. I don’t love Elvis Costello’s later stuff, but this holds. It’s a unique, angsty kind of punk that was very unique at the time.

I discovered and started to like (as much as possible) Elvis Costello on the 1001 list. After five (5!) albums, I feel he can achieve the impossible. He can sound very repetitive, and very repetitive, even though it has one of the widest ranges of styles on the list. How is it possible? I don't know. I prefer his work with "The Attractions," but I didn't dislike this debut. The rawness that is only possible in a debut album saves it from being just "another (but different)" Elvis Costello album.

This sounds dated even for a 70s album. Has a 50s feel... 3/5

Yeah man 6/10