Reviews (page 4 of 8)
Mixed results here: I really liked "I Want You," Battered Old Bird," and "Crimes of Paris," and really hated "Tokyo Storm Warning" to the point of nausea, and wondering what other song did that song sound just like? So I'm going to be all 6 7 about it ...
Can't remember what I said about the other Elvis Costello album. This seems like a Bob Dylan tribute tho.
• langweilig
This dude loves words. Decent music/instrumental. A lot of these songs feel like they could belong in a movie. His voice is kinda nice. I wanna take another look at this album there’s something that interests me. Might not be my favourite stuff in the world but definitely good.
Don’t get the Elvis Costello love. I mean he’s Ok, and there are a couple of good ones he’s done (I do happen to love to Allison, but that’s not on this record). Just not that enthused by this. Sorry.
Usually like Costello’s work more, not this one as much. Tho did have some good songs
Wasn't feeling this one until around the back half, when for some reason it really started to grow on me. I think I finally get Elvis Costello, and it was an incredibly rewarding album (although I was really not digging it for half the duration).
David Lee Roth – Once said that all music journalists love Elvis Costello because they all look like Elvis Costello. The music on this album and the band could have had so much more potential if they had ditched the singer! How is Elvis Costello one of the most disliked artists by many, yet his entire discography ends up on every commonly recognized "must listen to" list?
I've heard I Want You before because of my parents, but that was the only song that caught my ear and only because of that.
His voice is not for me dawg
I know it’s a trope of this list that there are too many Elvis Costello albums, but the ones I’ve had so far have really landed (I may not be saying that in 8 albums time mind you). As a band leader, he really knows how to put out a cracking album. This one had a lovely mix of slower emotional tracks and more upbeat stuff. Yeah, not ground breaking, but solid stuff.
There are far better Elvis Costello albums than this one.
Ok I guess.
I don't know why but man I have a hard time really getting into Elvis Costello. I think it might be his voice. It kinda drives me nuts. Overall this is pretty decent though. I don't think it's a bad record, I just don't think it's for me. I also learned today that Elvis Costello used the pseudonym Napoleon Dynamite which is quite interesting.
Is this the 25th Elvis Costello record we've gotten for this project?? The reviewers really love this guy. And its for good reason. He's kind of got that sad boy proto indie rock energy that draws you in. I liked almost every song on this record. Fun to vibe with, fun to rock out with. Kind of sad, kind of cute. I Want You is a masterpiece, I love how its kind of this rock opera homaging The Beatles. Brilliant. Battered Old Bird was probably my favorite on the record. It like that kind of country western story telling, but in this indie rock fashion.
Sure
There may be great lyrics behind all of this, but musically it’s generally not for me. Apparently he’s majorly influential to the 80s sound, so… good for him
Meh
not for me, i didn’t really like it.
my first listen is without paying much attention to the lyrics, mostly cleaning my room during it the first two songs were kinda goofy and generic, but after the third track i kind of got attached to this song style. Tokyo Storm Warning was quite good It inspired me to start a playlist with songs from this project. Home is Anywhere You Hang Your Head sounds like a song from a sad spongebob episode like when he lost Gary. cant go wrong with a guitar though! Battered Old Bird is such an interesting song! I also like Blue Chair
later
Not sure why I had to listen to this before I died. This is the most 3/5 you could possibly get. Not offensive, not enjoyable, just background music for a student film.
Fucking Elvis Costello. Not the worst Elvis Costello, but the fact I have a reference point to that comment just makes me very upset with this list
groovy but feels a bit repetitive at pts - def a solid 7/10 fave songs: 1. I Want You - so fire omg def a 10/10 song (i can really see why it's the most popular on the album) 2. Home is Anywhere You Hang Your Head - 8/10 def higher than it might be because of those little minor twangs in the prechorus 3. Crimes of Paris - bop least fave: Blue Chair
I think I might like this if I wore a black turtle neck, stat on modern furniture, and smoked a cigarette. I just not pretentious enough.
Elvis doesn’t miss
My first album from him and I liked it, great energy and thoughtful lyrics. Not mind blowing but there is something to be said for a solid album with song variation and quality throughout. Solid 4 for me.
01/11/2025 Just a bit boring, no spice in this. Spotify listeners: 751.9k
ok
In most cases, Elvis Costello’s voice just does not work for me. This is one of those cases, which made listening a bit of a chore. The album has some alright songs for the most part, but whenever Costello tries to add an edge to his voice, which he does a lot, it just ruins it for me.
Not great
CJ, Silda, Ela and Jess all voted 2 stars. Some good songs. I would rate 3/4 stars
There's a few good songs on here.
Brilliant and dark. Can't imagine anyone else making something like this, its romantic, desperate, brooding, passionate, but also hopeful. "I Want You" is probably the best representation of what this album is about.
When Elvis outgrew his "angry young man" days I kind of drifted away. I was bound and determined to stay angry well into my old age. Eventually I did mellow out and you know what? I really like this album. Maybe the Attractions have something to do with that.
Just might be the best album from 1986. Based on the reactions of others, Elvis seems to experience the black licorice polarization that many artists experience. In this case, black licorice is delicious!
Incredibly tense wordsmithing and amazing craftmanship
The first thing I did when I started this album was laugh. That’s all you need to know.
Hey, an actual good songwriter!
First listen
Meh. Not terrible.
Please no more Elvis Costello albums
I'm only 100 albums into this project, and this is my third Elvis Costello record. So that means there are at least, what, 30 more on this list? Great. This one is ok. His voice sounds a little less goofy this time around, so that's a plus. His songs are ok. "Uncomplicated" - I've never wanted to re-mix a song so badly in my life; I can barely hear the band over Elvis's vocal. A tough way to start an album. "Tokyo" - is Elvis trying super hard to be Bob Dylan, and failing. "I Want You" is appropriately creepy. "Poor Napoleon" is kinda cool. "Next Time Round" is really quite good - why is it last???? And why does it fade out? They recorded a proper ending! What? After this one I'm convinced the world could've lived with just one Elvis. TWO STARS
There sure is a lot of Costello on this list, and most of the entries are albums I'm not particularly interested in (would be okay if I got Armed Forces or Imperial Bedroom). He's not my favorite artist
Rock, singer songwriter, 1986 -> 2
Good
Didn’t like but not bad either
need to check him out more
„Blood and Chocolate“ erschien 1986 und markierte für Elvis Costello & The Attractions eine Rückkehr zu einem raueren, ungeschliffenen Sound, nachdem die Vorgängeralben teils stärker auf Pop und Produktion gesetzt hatten. Aufgenommen wurde das Album in den Olympic Studios in London, produziert von Nick Lowe unter dem Pseudonym „Nick Lowe a.k.a. Colin Fairly“. Musikalisch bewegt sich die Platte zwischen New Wave, Pub Rock und einem kantigen Gitarrenpop, der Costellos frühere Aggressivität wieder aufleben lässt. Songs wie „Tokyo Storm Warning“, „I Want You“ oder „Uncomplicated“ zählen zu den prägnantesten Stücken – teils bitter, teils zornig, mit Texten, die zwischen verletzter Leidenschaft und zynischer Beobachtung schwanken. Costellos Gesang ist bewusst roh gehalten, was gut zum ungeschönten Klangbild passt. Das Album wirkt stellenweise düster und intensiv, weniger eingängig als seine großen frühen Erfolge, dafür ehrlicher und kompromissloser. Es zeigt Costello auf der Schwelle zwischen seiner wütenden Jugend und einer reiferen, reflektierteren Phase.
A good album, I liked Battered Old Bird, Tokyo Storm Warning and Uncomplicated the most.
3/5
Love this record. My favorite Elvis Costello and the Attractions album. I cannot say enough about this recording. Means a lot to me and it brings back nostalgic thoughts when I listen to it.
Sometimes I love Costello, sometimes he's pretty boring. I can't put my finger on what it is. This is the latter.
Какая-то скучная фигня. Набор одинаковых поп-рок песен без какой-то изюминки. Это не прям ужасно, но меня бесит вокал и абсолютная плоскость и серость данного альбома. Просто пресная жвачка для ушей. Больше сказать нечего.
For a comedy duo, the songs weren't very funny. And I don't think I even heard Abbott.
This is my first time listening to Elvis Costello since high school when i decided i didn't like Elvis Costello and, let me tell you there's a lot i didn't realize. Like i had no idea he was English, and i didn't realize this was an 80s album partially because it doesn't sound 80s to me until crimes of Paris and partially because I thought he was one of the guys who died in the place crash with buddy holy. it turns out, despite not being able to tell these things i STILL really don't like Elvis Costello i almost liked Tokyo Storm Warning for it's groove but just like the rolling stones Going home and John Lennons i don't wanna be a soldier mama, it felt like it went on way too long and insufferably. But then it got to I Want You and i don't know what happened, but that song goes hard. I started to think maybe i do like Elvis Costello. I like the writing and the composition of it a lot but felt like a different arrangement/performance would fit better so I started looking up covers and Fiona Apple has a great version and there's one Elvis did with the Roots that's pretty great too! Oh my God, that song After that it got bad again. Turns out i don't like his music. I'll give it a 3 though
Tokyo Storm Warning is kind of a jam. The rest of it I just don’t think I get this guy. I don’t think he’s a good singer? Maybe I’m just a hater? These 47 minutes felt long.
Tokyo Storm Warning rips. I want to thank this album for Napoleon Dynamite. Elvis Costello seems like the guy who was super lame through most of school but because the coolest guy after school and is super stoked to rub it in everyone’s faces. This album feels very interesting and I feel like I’m really close to “getting it.” But I don’t know if I have what it takes to truly connect with it. There’s some really fantastic stuff here. There’s some lyrics here that are compelling, some sounds that feel innovative, and a concept that seems enthralling to those who care. It’s like driving past a car meet where in like “o shit that looks neat” and I imagine what it would be like to know anything about cars except instead of cars it’s smoking cigarettes and arguing about Roy Orbinsin vs Kraftwerk.
This was a good album. I'm not usually a fan of Elvis Costello, but do like some.of his songs.
i'm giving all Costello albums a 2 and hardly skimming through them as a protest of the list creator's obsession with this meaningless artist. Can't give it a 1 because then I'll have to see this clown's albums on my summary page for the next two years.
Vitun elvis costello
Crikey me cunt furs it’s another Elvis
2.5
I liked Battered Old Bird, the rest ranged from meh to ok
I did enjoy it. But he’s not got my favourite voice. Simpsons: Yes
Am I supposed to like Elvis Costello? Because I don’t. I just get nothing from this guy.
not that good. different elvis
i immediately did not like this album
I had heard of Elvis Costello, but I don’t think I expected him to sound like (derogatory)
You know how you go to a theme park and there are bands that play for shows and what not? That’s what this reminds me of. It’s not bad and part of me thinks I could causally enjoy it but it’s also not great. The fact that this guy has so many albums and I know the name is impressive but I can’t think of any specific song.
I like Elvis Costello, but this album is probably my least favorite so far. Best song Battered Old Bird.
Blood & Chocolate will be my last Elvis Costello album, as well as my last album from 1986 to review. As luck would have it, yesterday was my penultimate album from 1986, and now, a day later, I bid goodbye to that year. I really hoped that I would fall in love with at least one of EC’s albums, but so far, I’ve only had a few four-stars. Let’s give New Wave Elvis one last chance to blow me away! Alas, Blood & Chocolate won’t be getting five stars from me, meaning EC peaked at a few four-star ratings. B&C was fine, and I’d rank it in the middle of the pack as far as his albums that I’ve reviewed go. On some of EC’s better efforts, I’ve really loved his signature guitar and keyboard playing, but to me, it felt like that particular flair was missing from most of this album. On top of that, it felt like the keyboards didn’t play as prominent a role in the music on this album either, which was a bit of a letdown to me. On top of that, a lot of the songs on this album felt a little too long, which to me, watered down the message in the lyrics a bit. As far as the positives on this album, the songwriting was strong, and there were some pretty clever lyrics. And even though this wasn’t really what I wanted from EC musically, it was still a good album, and fairly enjoyable to listen to. Some songs that stood out to me: I liked the guitar on “Uncomplicated,” and the organ playing was organ too. The overall sound was interesting, and the bass and drums rounded out things nicely The organ on “I Hope You’re Happy Now” was good, and the bass rounded it out nicely. The lyric “you make him sound like frozen food, his love will last forever” was excellent. I loved the overall spiteful and angry tone of the lyrics. “Blue Chair” was one of the strongest songs on the album. The rhythms were excellent, and I couldn’t help but sway along as this song played. The chiming sound that was used was really great too. “Battled Old Bird” was really beautiful, despite the story in the lyrics being incredibly uncomfortable. “Crimes of Paris” and “Poor Napoleon” were the best part of this album. Ioved the backing vocals from Cait O’Riordan on both songs, and the guitar and bass playing was really solid too. The tambourine on “Poor Napoleon” was a nice touch too. After reviewing six of EC’s albums, I think he’s one of those artists who I’d just prefer to listen to his hits. His albums are fine, but I can survive on just the highlights of his career.
Disappointed in this one
My least favourite of the Elvis Costello odyssey on this list. On first listen I was heading for a 2 as felt the song craft (which has previously been his saving strength) was much weaker than the other albums so less of an overset against the vocals - which I have always struggled with. On repeat listens it did grow on me - and whilst still probably my least favourite of his albums on this lists its a solid 3.
Blood & Chocolate I don’t think I’ve heard this album before, I think I’ve tended to check out after Get Happy!!/Trust. It’s much more energetic than I expected and much more akin to the early albums with its wiriness, caustic attitudes and surprisingly catchy melodies, which makes sense with it being a reunion with the Attractions. Uncomplicated, I Hope You’re Happy Now and Tokyo Storm Warning are a great first 3 songs. The direct simplicity of Uncomplicated with its organ line is excellent, I Hope You’re Happy Now develops into an extremely catchy melody and some superb bass, and Tokyo Storm Warning is another catchy, lively rocker, with some impressively petty and mean spirited lyrics. It feels a bit uneven after that. I know I Want You is highly regarded by fans, but it doesn’t do a great deal for me, and the lyrics venture past mean spirited into just nasty and Honey, Are You Straight or Are You Blind while energetic feels a bit lumpen. Blue Chair is good, although its closeness to Manic Monday with hints of Oliver’s Army is a bit distracting. Battered Old Bird feels like a cousin to Blue Chair in some ways, but I find it a bit of a slog to get through, and, despite them being decent enough, I feel similarly about Crimes of Paris and Poor Napoleon. Next Time Around is a return to the form and the energy of the first side, with a great melody, excellent bass and keys and backing vocals. It also feels like it might have inspired Stand by REM The playing is excellent throughout, and his vocals are great, and despite some very good songs it does sag a bit and feels a level or two below his first 3 albums, so I’ll go for a high 3. 🍫🍫🍫 Playlist submission: Tokyo Storm Warning
The opening shriek of 'Blood and Chocolate' is classic Costello, sounding like he's just stubbed his little toe on the radiator. There's something of the town drunk about his vocal over-exertions. It's the sort of thing you either love or hate, and no in between and I, for one, don't mind it. I think this is the last of six Costello albums here. It doesn't particularly give anything the others haven't already or show any evolution. Whilst I think that's quite enough Costello now, it is without a doubt an excellent collection of tracks.
"I love that album. It’s a top 5 EC album for me for sure." - John Beck. I Want You is relentless.
Had to listen to this about 8 times for it to sink in. It's just great. Favourite tracks: Uncomplicated, Tokyo Storm Warning (the damn reverb scream at the end is KILLER) , I Want You, Blue Chair, Poor Napoleon (what a track).
Noioso
I mean, I'm finding these Elvis Costello albums varying from okay to really pretty good, but I'm also seeing that there are, apparently, /six/ of his albums on the list, which has helped me understand that the creator of this list is, in fact, clinically insane, and should be getting out a lot more. Jesus, but the world really has been good to boomer white guys. Anyway, 3.6 stars, moving on.
mid
A truly baffling album. Goofy production, shallow lyrics, and an honestly terrible vocal performance. A poor and whiny Springsteen "impression" over the most paint-by-numbers songs imaginable
Still not an Elvis Costello guy
it’s cool and all but this guys voice is pissing me off
I feel like I’m supposed to like this more than I do. There are some clever turns of phrase and a few moments where the Hammond sneaks through nicely, but overall it didn’t grab me. It’s fine, solid even, but not something I’d find myself seeking out again. More of a respect listen than a love listen.
I remember hearing this for the first time ages ago with a slight feeling of disappointment. Yet now I can appreciate it more: a return to mod roots, angry regret, and revenge. And now I know how the recording sessions were marred by tension, each player feeling aggrieved and just wanting to be done. Real venom in the air. And yet, it's Elvis Costello delivering brilliant songs filled with pain and pathos — like blood and chocolate, bitter and sweet.
Didn’t finish it but liked what I listened to especially Tokyo Storm Warning
like Elvis Costello, but towards the end I'd had enough. Decent enough, but a bit samey. Disappointed overall.
I find Elvis Costello to be very whelming.
Ok, not particularly memorable, not their best work.
Fine. Nothing special.
First Elvis Costello album on this and first time listening to one completely. Other reviewers seem to be sick of him. 6 albums does seem excessive. I like how raw this is. It's like pre-grunge. Vocal was off putting at the start but I warmed up to it. 3.5/5. Raising to 4.
If you said "hey I'm gonna put on an Elvis Costello album" and didn't tell me anything else about it, I would hear this and say "yeah, that's Elvis Costello alright".
Boring.
I really enjoyed this. The back half of the album was great. And I love when the vocals are so crisp and clear and ‘close to the mic’ is the only way I can think to explain it. Whatever that is called, I love it.
When this started I was curious as to why a later Costello album was chosen. What about Armed Forces or This Year’s Model? But this was a great record. I love Elvis Costello. Blue Chair really stuck out to me as a great song
Kann es sein, dass das schon das 4te Album von EC ist, welches mir hier serviert wird? Und immer noch keins von Buddy Holly. Das Leben ist ist nicht gerecht. Und diese Liste auch nicht.
I have nothing against it and not enough for it, just some lukewarm extra Costello for whoever's craving it It's a relatively not-so-upbeat collection for Elvis Costello, so I guess that's a slightly different lens to hear his musical stylings through
I just want to be done with Elvis Costello.
why he say battered old bird like that
Forgettable
Standard rock album. Was fine.
It’s not my fave. The melody is a bit monotonous for my taste.
FREE ME FROM THE CURSE THAT IS ELVIS COSTELLO
His best album. Its best track: "I Want You."
This album only reinforced my opinion that Elvis Costello is the most boring of Elvii.
Another great album by Elvis Costello! How does he do it? Album after album the quality is sky high. One of the greatest back catalogs- 33 (!!!) albums in he's still producing great work as his most recent album (A Boy Named If) will attest! Go see him in concert if you get the chance at 71 years old, he remains an essential live act delivering set after set of pure fire and skill. Starting today I will start a new mini project - I will hear all 33 EC albums in chronicle order . I'm pumped it, now!
Elvis Costello nær ekki almennilega að höfða til mín. Ég get samt ekki sett fingurinn á af hverju. Þetta er allt voða svipað og allt í lagi í bakgrunni en ég myndi aldrei setja þessa plötu á sjálfviljugur.
Good album, a little far away from what I love. 6.3/10
Pretty cool emotional contrasts and interesting arrangements, definitely circling back to this one soon.
LOVED THS A LOT ACTUALLY! really reminded me of some 90s/00s rock band but i couldn’t place what. enjoyed all the songs so much honestly
there’s just something about him I don’t vibe with …. And he’s literally built exactly for my music taste
I wonder what is his opinion about Ray Charles.
I don't know man it's like fine I guess.
Moyen
It was okay, but it all the songs felt too similar to each other. Weird ass cover. Like who in their right mind spends hours on songs and then makes something like THIS be the cover. 3/10
One thing doing this list has taught me, is that I do like a bit of Elvis Costello.
Very noisy. Sometimes good, sometimes bad. Elvis Costello is a mood. I haven't listened to much Elvis Costello, but I've always thought he reminded me of Tom Petty. I just googled their names together and found an article about Tom Petty complaining about "Radio Radio" ripping off the ending of "Listen to Her Heart" hahaha. I guess this aligns with EC being more punk than TP.
Ahhh enough with Costello albums!
I didn’t like any of the previous Elvis Costello albums, but this one is honestly pretty good.
Second half of the album really picked up a lot more traction compared to the first. Very cheesy, but it's not bad that's the thing.
Love this album
It was alright
Definitely a good album; anyone altogether refusing to engage because they don't like his voice is missing out. (I'm aware of my hypocrisy; at times I won't engage with rap or screaming 😇) I don't really like his voice either, as it happens, but I do like the way he constructs deceptively simple pop songs, through which to convey all sorts of aspects of the human condition via clever, thoughtful lyrics. I'm aware we get lots of Elvis C on this list; this is at least our third, and I think it's a pretty good one. He's a good songwriter I think. It's not entirely for me, but it's pretty good.
I always thought Elvis Costello was modern 50s/60s-style music for older folks, and it still doesn't make sense to me at almost 40 years old. I'm thinking at this point it's not ever going to work for me, and that is okay.
It all sounds the same to me
Only managed to listen to the first three songs because: A. It's utter fucking shit and his vocals are like nails on a chalkboard. B. I was already angry I got this muppet for like the tenth time.
i really wanted to like it, but nope (it's not you, it's me)
Fine but not for me
With growth comes pains and there were plenty for Elvis Costello & the Attractions. Whatever the aim was now, it was blurred, out of focus and far beyond reach and Blood and Chocolate documented those tensions. Far less glossy and indicative of how things were, this results in one of the more approachable albums in Costello's oeuvre regardless of where one stands with him; he'd be back on his own trail soon enough. Favorites: Uncomplicated, I Hope You're Happy Now, Tokyo Storm Warning, Home is Anywhere You Hang Your Head, I Want You, Blue Chair, Battered Old Bird.
This is my first time listening to Elvis Costello. Caught off-guard right from the first note with how bad this record sounded from an audio quality perspective. It made sense when I read that the entire album was basically recorded "live" in a studio and in one take because everyone hated each other. So they just set up the band as if it were on a stage and recorded it, so none of the audio was isolated. I feel the acclaim that it receives due to its sound is a bit unmerited because it was done completely by accident simply because everyone hated each other and wanted to get it done as soon as possible. It's not attributed to any genius or forecasting for future grunge, it was thrown together to push an album out. It is unique in that it does sound like a live performance, which is cool. Other than that, I think saying you should listen to 6 Elvis Costello albums before you die is a bit.......insane. The album is good, the music is good. That's about it.
I admire many things about this album. The songwriting is good, the approach was really cool, and the sound is a nice return to form. But, the songs, they are too long and a little boring. I don't really care about them and they kind of fall away for me.
This is reminiscent of a good Elvis Costello album, but it isn't one. Blue Chair is excellent, though, and I'm always happy to listen to an album produced by Nick Lowe, since he's otherwise not on the list, grrr. Give me Imperial Bedroom soon, please.
Like most things Elvis Costello, I don't like this album. Tokyo Storm Warning is one of the most grating songs I've ever heard. What a chore
Spooky, sordid Elvis Costello album #3. I am now half of my way through the mind of this exceptional individual. I remember liking some of the bits from my previous outing with Costello, notably “Welcome to the Working Week” and “Alison”. There’s always been good bits within Elvis Costello’s albums, so I’m feeling optimistic about this one. Yeah, it’s more Elvis Costello, though I’m not sold on this new musical approach – a lot more abrasive and stripped back than I’m used to. I enjoy Costello’s wit as a lyricist, but that’s about as far as my praises for this album go – it's pretty boring. There are some good parts. “Tokyo Storm Warning” has a neat, almost surf rock sound. “Blue Chair” ain’t bad. I like the instrumental and the way the chorus builds. That’s about it, really. I can’t say the stripped back approach really worked for me. Book time. A deviation from Costello’s previous albums. A whole lotta nothing beyond that, though. Wikipedia reveals that this was Costello’s lowest-charting album with some unsuccessful singles. Panned by critics at the time but regarded as one of Costello’s best in retrospect. Yeah, this shit’s gettin snubbed. In place of this album, I humbly submit Weezer’s Blue Album for inclusion on the list.
It was okay.
Not for me.
He's got a sense of humor, and the band playing behind him is competent enough. However, it's hard to find anything in this album I remotely care about listening to again. He's one of those artists who I'm open to listening to once in a while, but also one where I can't understand why anyone would be a big fan of his whatsoever. Also, it's absolutely hilarious how many of his albums are on this list.
Such a chill album. Really enjoyed the vibe, easy listening, and musicality. Some of the lyrics were out there lol.
I know this is famous, but I feel he has better records.
J'allais dire que c'était pas si nul pour un truc du milieu des années 80, puis au bout de 3 chansons c'était quand même pas ouf.
Boring and basic.
I don't have as much or an aversion to Costello as most of the reviewers clearly have. A lot of this felt quite raw and emotional and not necessarily 'polished' and I quite like that about it.
Battered Old Bird is excellent. I think the whole thing is good, but the second half is definitely stronger
Costello is a great writer but I just can’t get into it no matter how I try. His vocal range is limited and it feels forced on this record. A couple have a Boss sound, a few Wilco types, but really it sounds a lot like Loud Bob Dylan and that doesn’t do enough for me. To each their own.
Annoying vocals. Nothing changes it's just noise.
Elvis Costello is boring. 3
I don't have many Elvis Costello albums in my music collection. This was my first listen for this album and I was pleasantly surprised and while I may not pick up the album, I will download a couple of these songs.
It sounds like something I've already been listening to, like the Talking heads or more modern rock bands like Semisonic or Weezer. But considering I just discovered it in 2025 and it came out in 1986 makes me realize it was probably pioneering in some ways back then. I'm not the biggest fan of it but still having mostly a good time listening.
3.5/5 This was kinda fun but I just found out there are like 20 more albums of this artist coming and well... this would have been enough for me. Fav- Tokyo Storm Warning
Pretty standard Elvis Costello fare. But TIL that Elvis Costello coined the moniker "Napoleon Dynamite". #themoreyouknow
I don’t hate it, but also don’t love it
This "challenge" has given me a much deeper understanding of the genres of music I like and the ones I don't. I like a lot of things about this album and the blend of genres Elvis Costello is playing in (Garage, punk, pop), but the overriding pastiche of "Rock And Roll" the genre from the late 40s and early 50s with capital Rs and a fully spelled out "and" is a quality that doesn't connect with me. It makes sense that an artist feels a connection to the music of their parents generation, but it holds no special place in my heart (or ears).
Does this album need to be on the list? Not really. Still, I had my fun with this one. The first few tracks, especially the opener, have some great percussion on them. I want you is also a nice track that I keep confusing with the Beatles song of the same name. I liked this more than his other 2 albums I've had so far, every vocal performance Elvis Costello seems to give it his all.
Þegar fyrsta lagið var hálfnað hugsaði ég, jæja þar kom að því, Elvis Costello plata sem ég fíla ekki. En svo var það falskur fyrirboði. Það er eitthvað frábært í gangi hér eins og á hinum.
Rating: 5/10 Meh.
kolejny dzien zdychanko, nawet pan elvis costello z wdziekowa banda nie pomogl sie podniesc, czuje jakbym sluchal takiej mniej zgrabnej wersji brutal youth, bo sklad chyba podobny muzycznie, tylko lirycznie jakos nie czuje tej krwi i czekolady, ma momenty, ale tez momenty zapychajace, moze kiedys na swiezo dam jeszcze raz szanse, a jako najbardziej plejkowy trak plyty dodam i want you
I used to think I liked Elvis Costello but this album challenge has disabused me of that notion. I think I mostly just like Oliver's Army, which isn't on this album.
I knew the name and had heard some snippets but never a full song on purpose let alone an album. Very listenable. No one song stood out in a good or bad way. Would probably like it more on the second listen.
Has some moments but ultimately a bit dull for r&r
Good album. Lots of really solid and interesting songs. Was listening while driving so not the best audio and a bit distracted. But went through twice and really enjoyed.
It was a poetry slam
Fand die Stimme und den Gesang bei den meisten Liedern ... einfach nervig? Nur ca zur Hälfte gehört.
Pretty good
i liked
This album made me vomit blood and shit chocolate.
Pretty good
Hits hard at start of first song with a ton of treble. After that the songs are well performed and produced but some are too long. Sounds like this could border on indulgent pretty quickly but it never gets there. Glad that I listened. Might seek it out again.
It was fine. I didn’t know any of the songs.
Thoughts before listening: So I know Elvis Costello has had a prolific recording career for 40+ years, but I have only ever considered a handful of his albums as essential: My Aim is True, This Year's Model, armed forces maybe Imperial Bedroom. I am pretty surprised to see this album on here although I have definitely seen the reviews and comments in Reddit forums complaining about the amount of EC albums on this list. Review: Yeah, not really my favorite from Elvis. Its less pop-oriented than the albums I think of as his classics and more angry as well. Maybe this is an attempt to get back to his punk roots or something? Ultimately this is a bit of a mixed bag, with some of the power pop songs like "I Hope You're Happy Now" being petty good, and I really like "I Want You" as well. Ultimately though I find that this album lacks the hits that draw me to EC's best. 3-stars
There are two potential ratings for an Elvis Costello album; 4 stars when I'm listening and investing, and 2 stars when I have it playing but I'm busy elsewhere I was working on a case for half the album and taking a rest from said work for the other half
Старина попробовал сделать как по старинке, но запал уже не тот
Meh…
This was my first Elvis Costello album on this list … but reading the reviews I can see I should expect a few more 😂 Luckily I”m a fan, but I wasn’t familiar with this one. It was fine … I’m looking forward to Spike 👍
Not what I expected from other albums of his that I have heard. Not sure if that is an endorsement or not. Maybe with more listens I would rate higher.
I’m surprised?
I’m convinced that this list would only be ‘500 albums you need to listen to…’ if they removed all the fucking Elvis Costello albums…
18 sekuntia. kahdeksantoista. niin kauan kesti että meni mielipide kaivoon. en vihannut elämää sen yhden youtube- short videon ekvivalentin ajan. sitten avasi suun. AAA en muista lyriikkaa eikä tarvitse. disgusting disgusting voice. mahdotonta lähes kuunnella. ei ole väliä HÄLLÄ VÄLIÄ vaikka intrumentaali olisi Mendelssohn sinfonia no.3 jos elvis saa käsiinsä niin paskoo päälle.. ripuloi ja pissaa ja oksentaa ja vuotaa verta päälle. mahdotonta kuunnella. miten ei voi vittu suuttua tätä kuunnellessa?? hyi helvetti hyi helvetti. milloin se kuolee miksi se vittu elää samaan aikaan kuin minä?? miksi se on vittu elossa lopeta lopeta lopeta kuole kuole kuole pliis pliis kuole pliis kuole pliis kuole!!!!!!! tokyo storm warning
I don't know if this is a review of this album anymore but there's way too much Elvis Costello on this list. Not giving it a second listen to do a better job.
It's truly insane how many times he is on this list. I wonder if Buddy Holly had lived would we need to listen to Elvis Costello? He should just be a quirky local artist. Again his voice is not interesting. Some of the instrumentation is alright , but this is insane.
1986 Yeah, there's not much for me here. I was hoping for some crowd pleasers, but sadly lacking. Heard before ❌️ Listened this time ✅️ Revisit ❌️ Unremarkable★★☆☆☆
Not his best record. Relatively enjoyable, though.
I don't really like Elvis Costello and wasn't looking forward to listening to this album. However much to my surprise I actually enjoyed it
Costello is angry and urgent. This feels much more like his new wave peak, but lacks some of the melodic hooks. Not bad though.
More intense than I anticipated. Really liked this.
I quite enjoyed
At this point, I may be a bit over-Costelloed, but I did like this album. It seems less needlessly wordy than the others I’ve had. I particularly enjoyed “I want you”.
The guitar on Next Time Round sounds a lot like Stand by REM. This is enjoyable, but I don’t think it’s quite as good as his first three albums. Favorites were Tokyo Storm Warning, I Want You, and Battered Old Bird.
Seems standard Elvis. Too many albums on this list.
Please no more Costello i beg you. I'm on my knees.
A great return to form for Elvis and The Attractions.
Can we stop with the Elvis Costello albums
It wasn't my thing. No song on this album really grabbed me. I don't want to rate it 1/5 because I didn't hate it; it was just meh. 2/5
So dull
Elvis Costello is undeniably brilliant, and I was excited to revisit Blood and Chocolate today after not hearing it for quite some time. While this album has its moments, I wouldn’t rank it among Costello & The Attractions' strongest work. Albums like This Year’s Model and Armed Forces are far more impactful in terms of songwriting and overall energy. Blood and Chocolate feels a bit uneven in comparison. That said, there are some standout tracks—“I Want You” is darkly mesmerizing, and “Blue Chair” is a real highlight with its melodic flair. However, the album lacks a few truly unforgettable songs that would elevate it from good to great. Favourite songs: “I Want You” and “Blue Chair” Least favourite: “Home Is Where You Hang Your Head” felt somewhat forgettable. Album artwork: The cover is striking and intriguing, though I’m not entirely sure what’s going on. Still, it has a cool, chaotic charm that suits the album’s tone. Overall, Blood and Chocolate is a solid listen, but it doesn't quite reach the heights of Costello's best work.
5.5 / 10 - Some good songs like tokyo storm warning, can be quite a dull listen in parts though
*bleeding from the ears* okay OKAY Elvis please stop, I'll tell you everything... the nuclear codes, the security passwords.. everything you want, please just spare my family
I don't get the appeal, much less why this guy is on the list so much. 2/5
Got the band back together. Nick produced. Good stuff, not great.
War alright aber ist nicht hängen geblieben
A fine record, but nothing really here blew my mind like some of his other stuff.
I've never listened to Elvis Costello enough - my Dad is a massive fan but I don't think I've ever given him enough time. Glad this has given me a push towards him. Enjoyed this album. Haven't had a chance to fully take in the lyrics, but I'm sure this would add plenty. I Want You is obviously the stand out excellent track - so raw yet melodic. This being said, I felt that it was dragging a bit by the end, and probably could have done without two or three of the last songs. 7/10
Creo que no he escuchado este disco de Elvis Costello nunca.
Really decent album. Might not be up there with Aim Is True, This Year’s Model, or Armed Forces but definitely has a handful of gems. Recaptures a bit of the raw energy of his first two albums. I like it. Might give it four stars but hard to give it the same rating for me as the above albums mentioned.
It’s crazy how the first 10 seconds are kinda cool before his insufferable voice comes in. I just hope this is the last one of his abysmal records I have to endure.
pjesma "tokyo storm warning" bila fora, ostalo bezveze. 2 ili 3? ne znam, ajde tri
Tiny Costello album with some catchy tunes.
Honestly, this album was fine. It didn't grip me personally, I found it a tad bit boring, but I appreciated hearing a version of Elvis Costello I hadn't heard before, and also loved how clearly you could hear his influence on Elliott Smith in this album.
Pretty good
I really needed to listen to this generic Elvis Costello album before I died? If anybody else had released this album it would have ended up forgotten, but with Costello's name on it it's somehow important enough for this list. No thanks.
Burde sikkert høre mer på Costello, men han er best live.
Talk about over exposure, is he the editors brother in law or something. Here’s my 3rd Costello album already. It sounds like an Elvis Costello album, just like the last 2, little difference even with over 10 years between, so why do I need to hear this 1 too?? Like why? It’s a middling album at best, if being generous, it was on he was doing that bouncy melody thing, lots of lyrics, limited vocal range, not sure any of it penetrated my thick skull as it wafted along. Then it was over and nothing made me feel like returning, nothing was remembered. So why did I need to hear it? If you are a fan then good for you, To me Mr Costello is way over represented without any reasonable justification, there’s little variety that warrants from album to album, and they sure aren’t seismic on their own to deserve a must hear. So to rate, as an album it’s ok if a little so what, but the whole situation, fed up of him the personification of meh, so 2 Star
This is the first time I will listen to an Elvis Costello album. His music is not bad at all. I sat and listened. Interesting. 4
Alkufiilis: sietämätön ääni, tylsät ja toistavat lyriikat. Mikä vitun paskaa tää introbiisi on Pikkuhiljaa paranee. Toivoa ehkä on vielä. Laulajan ääni edelleen paskaa mikä on vähän surullista koska kyseistä herra on tässä se... Tähti... Ei osaa laulaa, hirveä nasaali LOPETA SE NASAALIVONKAUS Kuka päästi tän tänne listalle :))) I just want to talk Home is Anywhere You Hang olis hyvä jos ei olis TOTA VITUN NASAALIVONKAUSTA ja outoa HUOKAILUA. Tästä lähtee vahvat "tää on mun bändi ja MÄ laulan" vibat Damn onko I want you hyvä biisi..? Tosin iskee myös kaikki kliseet :D oon kuullu sata vastaavaa rockbiisiä
Nice album. Some Tom Petty vibes along with several other 90’s alt rock.
This is another case of the artist's voice not working with me. His voice comes across as if he is parodying someone, but it is clear that's just his voice.
I feel like this is one of those albums that exists and is perfectly good, but I'm really scrambling for ideas for what I can even talk about in a review.
Solid album from Elvis Costello.
Never heard this - fun for Elvis fans
I didn’t really care for this rock record
Over the years he has made a lot of good music and a lot of filler. The filler on this album is not that bad. One of my all time favorite songs is on this album: I want you. That being said, he has 6 albums on the list. I don't think this needs to be there. It's not very different from his older, more successful, more influential records.
I guess I've been kinda lucky so far, 534 albums and I am just now getting my first (out of 6) Elvis Costello albums. Or maybe I am unlucky because they are all going to be concentrated towards the end. Now the only band that has a lot of albums on this list that I haven't gotten yet is Sonic Youth (which I love). Anyways, this album is fine. I feel like if I had 3 or more Elvis Costello albums before this I would be writing a long rant, but that will have to wait. I have no idea why I Want You is the "hit" of this album, I think it was one of the more boring ones. I will never understand why he got 6 albums. We didn't even get Magical Mystery Tour. Low 3.
Sounds like Elvis Costello to me. I find it very comforting that Elvis Costello is generally pretty consistent with his quality of output. Even if the musical style changes a little, Costello's vocal delivery is the north star. That said, this the weirdest Costello record I've heard so far. Perfectly enjoyable, though, probably the least essential Elvis Costello album so far.
5/10…power pop / pup rock
Two songs in and this hasn't really captured my attention. Elvis Costello has been recommended for me a few times but I've just never been able to get into his music. I don't know but something about it just doesn't interest me. Tokyo Storm Warning is so repetitive. This is so boring and his voice is so grating.
Honestly, this might be my favorite Elvis Costello project
Dope
The vibe of this album is captured perfectly in the first lyrics when Costello blurts out "BLOOD AND CHOCOLATE". So cringey. Costello's singing can be totally tolerable on some songs and then insufferable on others. Over the course of an album, it makes for an unpleasant listening experience. Outside of a couple of songs (I Want You, Honey Are You...) this was a pretty dull listen. Mid 2.
Elvis Costello has a uniquely punchable voice. That opening delivery of "Blood and chocolate" irked me far more than it ought to have. I actually love I Want You -- such a delightfully creepy and weirdly uncomfortable song. Stripped down to the point of feeling tender and downright obsessive. I found this album to oscillate widely. Some songs I hated, others I loved, and most I found were somewhere caught between those two emotions. In a different mood, perhaps I would have liked this more, but as I stand I'm conflicted. For me this is somewhere on the 2-3 boundary; rounding down, because I don't have any desire to go back in for another listen to refine.
I've had enough of Elvis Costello. Sounds a bit like Tom Petty though, tbh. Low 3
Ok, i mean it for real this time, this HAS to be the final Elvis Costello album on here. I fully get his schtick after 5 albums now. He is not ground breaking enough to need 5 albums on here. I have started to realize that his voice sounds like the voice that Family Guy uses for Randy Newman. Wasn't a terrible album I am just sick of hearing him
Awesome another Elvis Costello album. Can't say I've cared for most of the ones we've gotten so far. Again just something about this that I can't get into. The music is always alright (sometimes a bit too rockabilly), but god damn his voice is just soooo nasally. And I love Thom Yorke as a singer. This is just differently bad.
The king of impeccably mid rock songs that are at least two minutes too long. A bleak uninteresting version of ”This years model”. He sounds so spiteful all the time. I agree with the majority here. His many inclusions on this list is totally unwarranted. He has neither a big subcultural following or a broad appeal. An artist who only nerdy rock journalists care for.
This is a good rock n' roll album.
I wonder how many more Elvis Costello albums I'll get in this project. It's okay, but they all sound the same to me.
Good, solid, middle of the road Attractions album. Aren't I thw.pompouz know it all. It's a bog standard Costello by the numbers l. I like it. Other Attractions albums are avaliable
Me gustó mucho el álbum No conocía a Elvis Costello, la verdad Le doy un 6/10
I like this album. I wouldn't rank it in the top Costello records - the back half sags a bit, but he's just a brilliant wordsmith. Good, not great.
Coupla real good ones on here I hadnt heard before.
A few good songs but not a great album. Lacks the energy expected from Elvis.
This started off okay. The opener is quite bumptious. But this got repetitive after a while. I am not fan of Costello’s voice, and while clearly quite emotional on I Want You, it’s not an emotion I really identify with.
I was not familiar with this particular Elvis Costello album and after listening to it I was surprised to find out it was from the mid 80s. It was raw and original and really felt like something more from the earlier parts of his career. Lots of highlights for me especially "Home is Where You Hang Your Head," "I Want You, " and "Battered Old Bird."
Just. Awful.
what is this trash, why doesn't he sing?
Dull
I like Elvis Costello. This is not really an issue. I think in some cases, some days, some time periods we ebb and flow, and I don't want to undersell the idea that I am an Elvis Costello fan, yet here I am thinking that this album was OK but I was not particularly moved by it. It could be a mood thing, it could be a timing thing, or maybe it could be that this was not among my favorite albums of his. It is still Elvis Costello and still has that signature sound and all that, I just didn't get super into it for some reason. Maybe someday I will be annoyed with what I missed?
Dear, Robert Dimery, No one -- I repeat NO ONE -- must hear this many Elvis Costello albums before they die. They all sound like each other. Narrow it down to one or two and make room for other artists who deserve the attention.
Favorite songs: Honey Are You Straight or Are You Blind, I Hope You're Happy Now, Blue Chair, Uncomplicated, Tokyo Storm Warning Least favorite songs: I Want You 3/5
Enjoyable sound, nothing really stands out enough to relisten to though.
Elvis Costello sings with the confidence and style of someone who loves the sound of their own voice - which makes the fact that he sounds like your friend's overconfident dad performing at the summer barbeque even more grating. Even the best song on this album ("I Want You") falls apart at the first scrutiny of its lyrics, which seem to be about being cucked?? What's up with that??? I wish I could concentrate on the music at all to give a real opinion but it's completely overwhelmed by Costello's squawking. Did not enjoy!
Pretty solid bit of 80s pop rock with a 60s sheen on it, though nothing especially special.
The music behind him was solid but unmemorable. His voice overpowered nearly every song and took me out of what would’ve been an enjoyable experience otherwise. Not only that, but why did it sound like crappy early 60s music with more expensive production equipment? Leave that era behind! I don’t think I enjoyed any song on the album.
A 1986 album that mostly sounds 20 years older than its contemporaries. Elvis puts a "modern" twist here and there, but when it's riffing off the worst era of rock music to begin with, it's just not very appealing.
Nothing strong to say about this one. It is definitely an Elvis Costello album. There are some good songs and some I didn't like. I don't think I would listen again, but I didn't dislike it.
Pretty good
This is the third Elvis Costello album recently and I can definitively say at this point I don't like Elvis Costello. His voice is quite nasal and I can't understand the lyrics when he sings them. Rating: 2
Uncomplicated - 2/5 I Hope You're Happy Now - 4/5 Tokyo Storm Warning - 3/5 Home Is Anywhere You Hang Your Head - 3/5 I Want You - 4/5 Honey Are You Straight Or Are You Blind - 3/5 Blue Chair - 4/5 Battered Old Bird - 3/5 Crimes Of Paris - 3/5 Poor Napoleon - 3/5 Next Time Round - 3/5 Average score: 3.2/5
Great A side and a decent B side. I Want You is a real standout here, but a few of the tracks run a little too standard for me to really fall for this album.
This is definitely one of the albums of all time.
Very pleasantly surprised great alt rock album with unique but classic sound, surprised it's not more popular
2.5 - Meh
I have never enjoyed costello's music. It's competent; I don't find it interesting at all.
went into this with a terrible attitude and then actually enjoyed it
It’s funny. I love Elvis Costello but there are only a few albums of his I would rate 5/5. This album shows a lot of his growth as a songwriter though. Cool changes and interesting melodies.
I didn't enjoy the vibe from the first song, it was whiny and felt rushed. I agonized through the first 3 track. Definitely not my thing but I enjoy a bunch of his older songs, just not this batch. The repetition, the length of some songs, the stupid lyrics, it was just a perfect storm of suckiness for me. I honestly didn't enjoy a single a track. The only one I didn't dislike was "Battered Old Bird" but it was 90 seconds too long. I really did not enjoy anything about this album and have NO idea how it was added to this list. It's a 1.5 star album for me.
Such a nice album. And after reconsidering and buying a vinyl of this record, I can say I love this man's art.
Easily in my top-800 albums I've listened to. Not even kidding, it's the best Elvis Costello album so far. Looking forward to hearing him again in 100 days
what's with these music critics and this fucking band only song of theirs i have EVER liked was I Want You
Great album. I fucks with this Spanish stuff
Nothing stood out to me in theis album. Pretty boring
Pretty decent. I have no idea why Elvis Costello isn't more popular. He has alot of the same appeal as his contemporaries like Tom Petty. Not bad, but I probably wont revisit.
Costello is not my jam. There is no jam whatsoever.
4/5
I Want You is a stand out, everything else is fairly average
I’m not sure what the hype is about
I really hope this is it for Elvis Costello on this list. I just can’t listen to this voice anymore.
Ok I could see why people wouldn't like it after getting 15 Elvis records, but as my first album of his it was pretty good. Nothing crazy or innovative but enjoyable with a couple of standouts
I've grown to enjoy Elvis Costello's music during this project and this album does not change that. Saying that, this isn't up to the level of This Year's Model and Imperial Bedroom. The songs here are just not as strong as the tracks on those albums. I enjoyed this album but Costello can do better and has done better. Some of the songs dragged, even the good ones. Songs I could recommend are: I Want You Uncomplicated I Hope You're Happy Now Honey Are You Straight or Are you Blind Blue Chair Crimes of Paris
Difficult
I hear some nice touches and decent tunes here, especially on second listen on the headphones. But there is something overall that just does not appeal to me or make me want to listen again. And like everyone else I am baffled as to why he has so many on this thing. 2.5
This is probably my favorite Elvis Costello album I've listened to yet. I often feel like the songs are overwhelmed by his weirdly aggressive vocal delivery.
I have tried several times but i can't get into Elvis Costellos vocals. Really annoying & monotone
Cool
This list has helped me learn that, while Elvis Costello is good, there is only so much I can take
oh elvis what is this... this is terrible...
got it
This is a guided tour through the Stages of Grief, led by a chain-smoking poet with a vendetta. And I'm here for it. There’s Denial in “Home Is Anywhere You Hang Your Head,” Rage in the gloriously bitter “I Hope You’re Happy Now,” and Depression in the slow, suffocating spiral of “I Want You.” “Next Time Round” moves toward Acceptance, but not before we crawl through the wreckage of Bargaining in “Crimes of Paris." This is no "Veronica" if that's what you were expecting... which I kind of was, so excuse me while I go call my therapist.
drei bis vier
I was immediately skeptical at the first track but it ended up being great
it was nice
I liked this enough, but probably won't revisit it. Also, that "I Want You" song gives me the heebie jeebies.
This is just really bad. Everything is just boring
never make me experience this hell again. costello's voice is so bad he was not meant to be a musician. no creativity or flow at all. ugh
Vocals were actively annoying me in this one.
It was okay. Nothing notable.
Nice work Elvis
Elvis' typical guitar pop
This album feels a little less consistent than This Year's Model, but still a pretty good album overall. 3/5
I enjoyed this one. It has some stuff that reminds me of the earlier albums (of course) and I enjoyed those ones the most. That being said, it's probably my least favorite of what I've heard from him. 3/5
Nice album, a few reslly good ones but sometimes his voice can get boring. 3.5