This Year's Model

Надо очень радостным быть, чтобы такую музыку слушать. Как по мне - какая-то шляпа: старенький поп-рок с намеками на протопанк типа студжес, но без месседжа и протеста, просто веселые песенки про жизнь и любовь. Второй раз я бы не включил, но и прям плохим не назову, просто не очень интересно...

just not my style, i don’t really like his voice too much. but theyre good put together songs with good lyrics most of the time.

You know I don't care for Elvis Costello at all. I just kind of find him boring, that being said, obviously the bass riff to "Pump It Up" is about as legendary as it gets, and just that alone has to bump this album up a bit.

I enjoyed this but not in a violent way

I can hear how much this album fed into new wave. Some tracks really catch my ear, but then something like Little Triggers comes on and I can’t stand it. His singing feels like a fake accent, almost like he’s mocking someone, and it completely kills the mood for me. This is the first Elvis Costello record I’ve sat through, and honestly I don’t get how he’s got half a dozen “essential” albums. That said, taken as a whole, the record holds together fine. It’s just that the vocals grate on me in a way I can’t ignore. 7/10.

🎸😄

It's really interesting. The precurser to punk rock - not sure if I'd listen to the album again, but glad I know it.

Better than Coldplay

meh

Good album and great band. Saw Costello back in 88 or 89 when he did a solo tour with Nick Lowe opening.

I was more familiar with Mr. Costello's debut - and was happy to dive into this record. Lots of fun songs in a jittery, new wave style. He jams a lot of ideas and words into most of these tracks - the emotions are ironic, angry, horny, discontent - but never feels negative or like a downer.

can't see why some hate this so much and also can't see why others praise this so much

I really wanted to like this album but i find the vocals to be quite annoying and theres not a lot of substance in terms of songwriting here 6/10 Favourite: No Action Least Favourite: Little Triggers

This was ok

This is a much better record than it deserves to be.

tem melhores né po mas não é ruim não deus abençoe o new wave

The album is a little too long, but still pretty fun unbeat pub rock. Will listen again! 3.5/5

Pretty good, though I prefer “My Aim is True”. 3.5 maybe. Great opener.

I’m immediately comparing it to the last Elvis Costello I had to listen to in the project and it’s better. I can still hear his influence in things I hear today, but Elvis particularly doesn’t do much for me.

My 358th album is somehow my 1st Costello on the list. Poppy and catchy with a little edge of punk in placing this along the lines of power pop & new wave. It’s also very direct and up-front, it feels vital, in your face, and like it’s laying out all the cards and not hiding tricks or secrets. Musically can’t be interesting without excessive complexity or showmanship, but songs tend to have a good beat and a good hook. The band is certainly tight and supports Costello well - Some cool bass parts and fills throughout, and the synthy organ sound can add a nice touch. Much prefer the energetic up-tempo tracks to the slower ones. Some lyrics are clever while others are cringey. Overall it’s an alright record with some solid tracks and interesting moments, other aspects I could leave behind

I remember actively not liking Elvis Costello as a kid, for no other reason than it wasn’t the cool aesthetic I was looking back then. It all seemed very 70s ‘shades of brown’. That said I did enjoy ECs solo album a few years ago and so was a bit more open minded coming in. I’m glad I listened twice as the second listen, walking around my suburban hometown in the sun, seemed to be the right environment for this I can’t say that I love it but the energy and hooks have caught my attention enough to make me want to hear more… which is a good job as I believe he has a couple more albums in here.

I kinda like the B-side and also Pump it up. Very cheerful and modern pop-ish.

A lot zappier than the previous Costello effort on this list (Blood & Chocolate). The version of This Year's Girl used for The Deuce worked much better with a female voice in it, too, but it's not a bad tune. A few very good tunes on here, but Costello still creeps me out a bit.

A decent album that still just about stands up. But it has aged badly in places with some of the lyrics. It's all very competent. Strong songs and musicianship. The singles stand out above the rest. It sounds like a soundtrack to a late 70's yoof programme.

A tight, sharp, and well-written new wave album full of attitude and cynicism. It’s easy to see why it’s considered a classic, with intense energy, strong lyrics, and a fantastic band. But personally, it doesn’t fully grab me. I recognize the quality, but it just doesn’t click. 3/5

I was wondering how many albums it would take before I got an Elvis Costello album through the generator (52, apparently). I've only ever heard the name, I've never consciously listened before so I wasn't sure what to expect. This is....fine. it's okay. There are some interesting riffs in a few of the songs. His voice is alright but does get grating over time and I can see some people really disliking it. I don't hate it but I'm not sure if I feel that the other 5 or so albums of his on the list is really warranted.

At most points this seems like the New Wave that prefaced the ‘bad’ side of the 80s British synthy stuff. It has some high points, namely (I Don’t Want to Go To) Chelsea, the sort of track title that you’d expect to see in a listing for a fake album someone made as a satirical piece. Maybe that’s what Costello is trying to do here. As for lyrical content, I can’t say I payed extreme attention, but would anyone? I don’t think Costello would want his lyrics to be examined too carefully either. They seem to be about women, in a bit of a controlling sense. There’s probably some age gap power related dynamics in there too. Let’s not dwell further. But yeah, I wouldn’t hasten to point to this for a great example of a new wave album. More of a throwaway British album that got popular through one track (Pump It Up) and has thus outstayed its welcome.

Elvis Costello is the definition of beige to me, I can't hate it and I can't find anything to love either. Pump it up is fun.

I usually like Elvis Costello, but this one didn't hit.

eh, its okay

I have some of Elvis's music but not his whole catalog so was interested to hear this one. Its really good ! I like the production and the little tone changes that makes the songs more interesting but having said that the second half of the album felt a bit samey. Only one of these songs is on his greatest hits which kinda says it all.

Gosh, Elvis Costello is seriously so mid.

A pleasurable listen from start to finish. High three, not quite a four

Not necessarily the perfect experience, but I enjoyed it more than the Beatles' Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band album that I also recently heard. From the songs themselves, the thing that I remember most is that the Little Triggers song for some reason reminded me of the recent release by The Favours (Finneas, Ashe). I have no idea why though

This was good. Enjoyed it more than I was expecting, but when it comes to Elvis Costello, I never end up enjoying his music as much as I want to, if that makes any sense.

I’m not sure if this is my thing and yet there’s something quite likeable about it. At times, it has a feel of The Clash and a quick search tells me Mick Jones plays on Big Tears so I guess I’m not just imagining it. I’m not sure when I’d listen to this again and I don’t know if more listens would make me like it more but I wouldn’t be against it.

Solid outing from his days as a punk troubadour

This one grew on me. I really didn’t like the first few tracks on my first listen, but I was enjoying the album by the end. I think I needed a little bit of familiarity to get into it, but I do just think those first couple tracks are my least favourite. Fav song: Living in Paradise - also liked Pump It Up, Little Triggers and Lip Service Least fav: No Action

Very modern almost timeless sound. Voice can be a bit much. Not sure how to explain. Not bad overall.

Pretty good

Another good album. Better than his offering that I've already listened to via this site. 'Pump It Up' is a classic, and there were a couple of other tracks that were good.

Achei o teclado frenético muito over, em alguns momentos eu pausei pra respirar um pouco, fora isso achei o álbum bom, mas não senti diferença entre as músicas, ele é bem linear, tão linear que parece que não vi a diferença entre uma música acabar e outra começar (acho que isso não é um elogio).

I did not like it at all.

Hmm. I remember really, really liking this maybe 5 years ago. This time, it didn't really gel with me. Some great playing from the band. Not sure about some of the songs. A bit dreary?

I swear to Christ, what is it with Elvis Costello that has this listmaker so horny? Sure his music is fun and innovative (to a degree) but does it seriously warrant 4+ albums? That said, this one was probably my favorite of the bunch (so far... fuck). Good energy, really energetic drumming. And "Pump It Up" is admittedly a banger.

Solid

01) No Action - 6,5 02) This Year's Girl - 7,0 03) The Beat - 6,5 04) Pump It Up - 10,0 05) Little Triggers - 6,5 06) You Belong to Me - 6,5 07) Hand in Hand - 6,5 08) (I Don't Want to Go to) Chelsea - 7,0 09) Lip Service - 6,5 10) Living in Paradise - 6,5 11) Lipstick Vogue - 6,5 12) Night Rally - 6,5 13) Radio Radio - 6,5 TOTAL: 6,85 (69/100) Current ranking: 389/613 "Pump It Up" is great, the rest is average...

Never fully got him but this was ok

Upon 2nd listen through, I really like this. The voice needs a minute to get used to. Like, doo-wop New Wave. Pretty simple songs but funny and "in" lyrics. He gets it.

Elvis Costello's style is pretty timeless- Pump it Up and Radio, Radio are the still the obvious top tracks.

3/5

opet kostelo, najbolji album dosad. iako opet nije nešto da obori s nogu. al ni najmanje mi ne smeta

whatevs

Interesting. Not terrible.

-meh… not bad at all but i’m not really getting the hype for this one as much as i did with Brutal Youth or even Blood and Chocolate -had some bangers. really good diversity in vocals and instrumentation, but his voice was just very grating to me at some points. 3 stars but barely -Favorites are This Year’s Girl and (I Don’t Want To Go To) Chelsea

Best nice

Great band performances - much of the lyrical content hasn't aged well.

Felt very theatrical

I'm generally good with the hits when it comes to Elvis Costello. "Radio, Radio" and "Pump It Up" are classics, and there's some solid stuff on here, but I'm fine with the best of.

Pump It Up When You Don't Really Need It 1001 Albums Generator 67 (07/04/2025) Favs: No Action The Beat Pump It Up Least Fav: Little Triggers

Not my usual genre but highly listenable.

Enjoyed this! Nothing earth shattering, but fun!

Good, early, Elvis Costello.

As a whole it's just an ok album for me—I do like Elvis Costello but a whole album feels a bit much and I don't really enjoy this style for too long of a listening period.

Not a huge fan of his voice (if I want a nasal voice I'll take Tom Petty any day), but this was a nice bridge into the 80s and New Wave.

Enjoyed it more than I thought: knew the hits (Pump it Up, Radio) but entire album was kind of satisfying.

The band is really good and I feel like this should be my thing, but something just doesn't quite click. I wonder if any of the other 237 albums they have on here will fare better.

Pretty good song-writer.

i will admit, there are some bangers...

Cool

Its good but my brain can't really pick out lyrics and I think this is where this record probably delivers. Musically reminds me of dire straits but its the same era.

Many songs have a timeless appeal, but not many I would return to out of the album

Sounds pretty good for nearly 50 years old, Pump it up and Lipstick Vogue were the real hits here, the rest, somewhat forgettable, and the synth sounding thing is sounding a bit dated.

He's great isn't he - some classics on here. All in a good album, not blowing me away. Listenable.

I was familiar with several songs on this one - they’re nice but nothing special - the type of stuff that eats up radio airtime. The music part of his material is adequate and diverse. The lyrics - seemingly always complaining to or about his girl and other guys and monotonous vocal delivery - drags. Clear your throat, man. Two songs You Belong to Me and Hand in Hand have annoying repeating sections that go on too long. Middle of the road on 91x back in the 80s and still middle of the road today. 3/5.

Fun album, solid pop songs. Sounded a bit like early ska, maybe that's the post-punk. He has such a distinct sound

Pump it Up is fantastic. But beside for that, I've never been the biggest Elvis Costello fan at the end of the day. It's fine, but nothing that has ever blown me away.

Good, but not great album. Definitely had some influence on later rock and I can appreciate that, but there’s only a couple stand out tracks. Still enjoyed it enough.

Decent music. Pump It Up is always a classic.

Awesome bass parts

Esta chulo

When i was younger I never saw the appeal of Elvis Costello. I listened to this with an open mind. It is much better then expected. But it is still unclear his appeal.

Decent, strong start then mid

Like the music, his voice not so much.

Does Elvis Costello sound a lot like Tom Petty? I don't like his voice all that much, but the album was nice enough to listen to. Definitely a vocal-heavy album and not a lot of interesting instrumentation.

Pretty fun sounding music but maybe a little bit samey. high 3/5

Solid to good album, and of course a GOAT track in Pump It Up.

Also nice music for vacation!

Some songs are actually catchy

I feel this album suffered from the 70s vinyl label idea of no one flips a record. all the good stuff was on side A leaving nothing for side B

This wasn't really what I expected, but my expectations were completely irrational, being rooted in a vague association my brain made between Elvis Costello and Elvis Presley. So really I knew nothing about Costello going in. In the end it was just alright - I like the energy of it, couldn't really make heads or tails of the lyrics, and found it a bit samey after a while

probably the best elvis costello album

Pretty good album.

I think he is a better songwriter than an artist. Some of the songs work especially Pump It Up, but his voice really doesn’t.

Typical EC. Never really my jam although I think it probably should be. 3/5

Surprised to listen to an Elvis Costello album I kinda liked. Imperial Bedroom was the only album (and music) of his I have listened to thus far, and that completely and utterly (probably unfairly) destroyed his name in my eyes. This is fun though. The Beat and Pump it Up were great. The latter was sampled by the Rogue Traders on Voodoo Child, a song that brought me back to my NOW THAT's WHAT I CALL MUSIC (64?) days...

Costello's voice, for me, is incredibly inconsistent. It's sometimes very good, sometimes just fine, and other times it's pretty rough. That inconsistency ends up hurting the album as a whole for me. Because I really like the vibe and the band! The Attractions as a whole are really good and do a lot of interesting things! I honestly wished I really enjoyed this album, but it ended up being alright enough. Favorite Song(s): This Year's Girl

Not a fan of his voice, however better than his other albums on the list Best Song: Pump it Up Rating: 5.5/10 Stars: 2/5

Heard some songs that I didn’t know were Elvis Costello! Pump it up and Radio Radio

It's good

Fine, nothing special

3 star

Reasonable. Pump it up is always a banger

Are people actually fans of Elvis Costello or do they just say they are because they think everyone else is, he's fine but nothing special.

I am beginning to think Elvis Costello is the person running this project. I don't know how you justify the number of his records on here otherwise. That being said, this was the best one yet. Listenable and only moderatley annoying.

Honestly this is a fun album! Would I ever search it out to put it on? Nope. But am I glad I got to listen to it? Yes! And if I was somewhere or with someone who put this on, I’d listen through it again. So 3/5 for me personally because I can appreciate that it’s good but it ain’t my cup of tea

Never listened to Costello before. Some song that sounded similar but also some honest to god bangers.

A pretty solid album. It was fun and enjoyable and I thought tracks like Pump it up and lipstick were great. But the whole album doesn’t do anything remarkable. It feels like I have heard the same sound multiple times. Maybe at the time it was released it was something new but now I feel like the sound, although not bad, is a bit overdone. But that doesn’t take away from the fact that I still thought that it was pretty good.

This one didn't resonate with me really. It was okay in parts but it just wasn't my jam.

Un an après "My Aim Is True", Elvis Costello sort son deuxieme album en 1978 "This Year's Model", album enregistré avec son groupe The Attractions. Les Attractions ne sont pas simplement un nouveau groupe, c'est l'élément déclencheur qui permet à la vision d'Elvis Costello de prendre pleinement forme. La virtuosité de chaque musicien et leur alchimie collective fournissent la puissance, la précision et la nervosité nécessaires pour traduire l'urgence et la complexité des nouvelles chansons. "This Year's Model" marque une rupture stylistique nette avec "My Aim Is True". Si le premier album flirtait avec le pub rock et des influences américaines, le second plonge tête la première dans l'énergie de la New Wave britannique, intégrant des éléments de Power Pop, de Punk Rock, voire de Garage Rock. L'album sonne résolument punk dans son urgence et son attitude, même si la sophistication des arrangements et la diversité des influences (allant des Rolling Stones et des Beatles à des touches de reggae ) le distinguent du punk brut de décoffrage. C'est une musique tendue, nerveuse, presque paranoïaque, portée par un groupe qui semble constamment au bord de l'implosion contrôlée. La production de Nick Lowe est un autre facteur déterminant. Il cherche à obtenir un son plus fort et plus percutant que sur "My Aim Is True". Son objectif principal est de bien asseoir la basse avec la grosse caisse et de mettre la voix de Costello au premier plan. Le résultat est un son direct, puissant, qui capture l'énergie live du groupe tout en conservant une clarté remarquable. Lowe réussit à créer un sentiment de "chaos contrôlé", où l'urgence et la tension coexistent avec une production précise et efficace. Cette approche met en valeur à la fois la virtuosité des Attractions et l'intensité viscérale des compositions de Costello. Les paroles de "This Year's Model" prolongent la veine acerbe et spirituelle de "My Aim Is True", mais avec une intensité et une concentration thématique accrues. Le ton général est mordant, confrontant, voire venimeux, Elvis Costello adoptant la posture d'un observateur désabusé et cynique. L'album explore principalement les relations amoureuses dysfonctionnelles, la critique sociale et médiatique, et une introspection souvent brutale. Dès sa sortie "This Year's Model" reçoit un accueil critique extrêmement favorable. Les critiques louent la force de l'écriture, l'énergie des Attractions et la maturité de Costello en tant qu'artiste. Au final, ce sera un 3 sur 5 pour un album à découvrir.

I cringed when I got another Costello album here but, honestly, Pump it Up is a jam and the rest of the album wasn't too bad either.

Solid album. I knew more doings than I thought I would. Kind of geek/cool/retro vibe, even at the time.

On todays entry for 1001 Elvis Costello albums you must hear before you die. Very much the same as the others, some good, but most is below to average. Pump it Up still holds up great, the rest, not so well. Still, love the guys voice, but I just cant see how he needs this many entries.

Yep that’s ANOTHER Elvis Costello album. Sounds like all the other ones we got

Holy shit. It must be his complete catalog on this list. More quirky uptempo stuff. I have nothing against Elvis Costello except the fact that 1/3 of the way through this list he is the most repeated artist. Another three star review. Blah blah blah.

I hate that I actually like this. It is the perfect amount of corny/cringy to be enjoyable if you get what I mean.

There’s a couple good songs but otherwise found it pretty average. His voice is an acquired taste I feel. Not my favorite, but the vibe they go for requires it I guess.

Enjoyable selection of music

Ok

Good

It’s fine.

Not my thing but I appreciate the album

Really enjoyed the instrumental but couldn't get over his voice.

not as annoying as Bob Dylan... but he's very close 2.8

(30 known/59 new)

It's becoming very hard to properly rate Elvis Costello's albums. On one hand, they all sound exactly the same. On the other hand, 4 of his records that I've already rated have different note each (from 1 to 4). I guess it depends on a day and my mood, but one thing for sure, I will never reach for his music on my own, it's just not my type of genre. Only fair call is to give a solid 3 and to hope that this is the last time I hear about Elvis.

Leaning towards good overall. The music/instrumentation was a 4, but the singing is what brought the rating down to a 3. The singing was a bit annoying and whiny.

Nice music, but his voice sounds like he has a lozenge stuck in his throat and is singing through a cardboard tube. 3.0/5.0: Good

Simply liked it

to be honest i found his voice to be annoying as hell but the music was alright had some good songs the main one which i forgot the name was very nice

As the meme goes, there are way too many Elvis Costello albums on this list, which is true. This one, his second, is not too bad, but like all his other albums, it's not great either. I do not get the appeal. but there are some good songs on it. Key tracks: No Action Living in Paradise (I Don't Want to Go to) Chelsea

Some catchy songs, feels more like rock, but still kinda 80s.

I don't know how to review this album. The band is fantastic, especially the bass player. This 1950s Rock'n'Roll through a late-70s/early-80s filter largely works from the standpoint of the instruments. For the most part, I'm not a fan of the vocals. They sound more like he's putting on a character than just singing. "Pump It Up" is the highlight. 3 stars

3.0 - Ok

Of the Costello albums this is my favorite. It doesn't immediately annoy me and he has some beats and the music is varied enough that it doesn't all drag together. No Action and The Beat were good. However, Little Triggers is a big trigger for me, this is the epitome of why I don't think I like him. His voice and signing in this song are just so annoying. His voice is clawing and just grates my brain like nails on a chalkboard. I also think reading the album summary, maybe I am naive but how is this punk rock? Is it new wave and pop, yes but its not punk. Maybe that is also what annoys me about him, every album is described to be so hard, punk, anti-establishment, but in today's terms its just a pop rock album. Its like he is embarrassed by what he is, but wants to enjoy all the mainstream success of pop music. Like Hand in Hand, would just fit into any high school dance of the 60's.

This is our third Elvis Costello album and the first of his albums that actually has a song I've heard before. TWO songs actually! : Pump It Up and Radio Radio. Both are great songs but I'm disappointed that I didn't really like any of the other songs. I like the bass in Lipstick Vogue. I like the music on Night Rally. There are parts that I like but overall it just doesn't really connect with me. Songs like You Belong To Me annoy me because it's immature. Yes, in monogamous relationships there should always be a sense of ownership and entitlement. That seems healthy. Most of Elvis Costello's more "romantic" songs just come off as him being kind of a dick and lacking emotion. He should probably not write love songs. He doesn't want to go to Chelsea. Is Chelsea a girl or a place? Maybe Chelsea doesn't want him either. I'm still waiting for that Elvis Costello instrumental album.

I struggle with his voice. Maybe he sounds too stuffed up, like if he only blew his nose, his vocals would open up and become a beautiful symphony of sound. But alas, I think this is just what he sounds like. I actually liked this album better than the first couple we've had though. There's a good energy and bounce to it, and I can feel his soul in this one, which I haven't felt until now. This was earlier in his career, so maybe he was just more raw and real then. I actually knew a song on this one too! Pump It Up is a fun ditty. But I have Kleenex if you need it, Elvis!

Fun to listen

pump it up bangs, not as good as my aim is true

I thought I hated Elvis Costello, but this isn't bad.

Boy, this selection has worked hard to make me an Elvis Costello convert

This guys voice with the ska esque music in the back made it hard to want to listen to all of this

Is this album so fundamentally different from the Elvis Costello record ("Armed Forces") that we already reviewed? I like this one a tiny bit better, but c'mon... life is short and this list should skip virtual duplicates like this. How about some Joe Jackson instead? Or The Jam? I've heard some good things about Dexy's Midnight Runners. We should check in on them soon.

Elvis Costello is definitely a greatest hits artest for me. The good stuff is so amazing, but most songs are just fine. Pump it Up does most of the heavy lifting here.

Dull

Interesting pop/soft rock. Sounds kinda 80s without the electro sounds Best track - I dont want to go to chelsea

Not bad. I liked the instrumentals way more than the singing.

3 good songs

He has better but good album

Not bad. Not his best.

I quite like his voice, although it sort of feels like a parody. Fun fact, my school Maths teacher (heavy ursualla vibes and known for being a Biatch) knew Elvis Costello and Diana Krall because she ran a jazz club in southend. Makes me think she was cooler than we gave her credit for.

This album is solidly OK. I like this much better than 'My Aim is true', mainly thanks to the new wave influences the Attractions bring. This album feels pretty modern, and if you'd told me this came out a couple of years ago I'd have believed it. Is that because it's groundbreakingly new? Not really, more like it's very inoffensive and has a very classic rock n roll feel. It's enjoyable and I wouldn't complain if someone put this on, but it's not something I'm gonna recommend to anyone. Pump it up is an absolute tune though.

A couple of good songs but then the rest all sound the same.

48/1001 - Would be better if he wasn't flat all the time. Very average.

Average Costello.

This to me seems like Peak Elvis Costello and i enjoyed it. Lots of heart and fun and energy, lyrics that jump out and lots of musicality.

I only knew the album's artwork. First listen: ah he's British ! That sounds fresh, clear, jangle...there are catchy tunes but a bit repetitive. I like the sarcasm in the lyrics. Worth 2.5...but I would go for 3 because it sets me in a good mood.

I love the guy, always fun and still there... And i had always like the Pump it up song, lyrics are nice too, but nothing really stands out here. 3 is my sympathy vote.

Just fine

Not bad, but not Costello's greatest work.

20/02/25 The album was just okay.

My third Costello album and a new sound yet again. I know there’s a lot of complaints on this about the number of Costello albums but the three I’ve heard have been distinctly different and the same goes for this one As is fit for a late 70s album it’s got a subtle but growing synth influence , Elvis does sound younger here and just a little less raspy. I did enjoy the band work here even if I didn’t find the vocals a great fit

Elvis predicts the snotty vocal delivery of '90s alt rock with startling precision. Other than that, I don't really get much out of this. Silly and fun enough that it wasn't unpleasant, though!

Ganz nett anzuhören

Just middling. A few fine tunes and most that are just unremarkable.

Surprised myself with some foot-tapping along the album. Still not my music but it was not too bad

A legend that does not suit me well

Pretty fun. But like with My Aim Is True only one song stood out (Lipstick Vogue in this case, Miracle Man in the other).

Ok

Elvis Costello is an artist who reminds me I am aging. As a younger person, I decided Costello was "for adults", and left it at that. Now in my 30's I listen to and appreciate Costello, as is appropriate for my original perception of this age group. Haha For real, he's a good musician and singer. I don't know that I'm quite ready to call myself a fan, but I can definitely see myself returning to Costello's works.

Same as every Elvis Costello album

Endnu en Elvis. Og ham her skal vi godt nok igennem meget af. Det var fint nok, ikke noget som stikker helt af, bare fint nok. Sing a song rockabilly ting.

Hmm. Der er noget interessant over lyden hist og her. F.eks. en tydelig Television inspiration på guitaren i Living In Paradise. Alt i alt okay lytteligt. Men ikke noget der giver mig særlig tilfredsstillelse.

It needed more energy and more from the backing band, because his vocals are definitely not good enough by themselves. Saying that some of the bass lines I liked, and a bit of the guitar work was ok. A couple of tracks I liked, such as Lipstick Vogue and The Beat. The rest were just boring and needed something more

Elvis Costello isn't for everyone, I guess, but I admit that strikes me as odd. This works for me.

This might be my favorite Costello album, some catchy tracks on here.

I was not previously familiar with this album but I did recognize Pump It Up once I heard it. Elvis Costello has a unique sound which shines here. The album is good, albeit a little bit forgettable, but Pump It Up is definitely very good.

I enjoyed this album way more than I thought I would. High 3.

At a loss for words with this one. I need to beef up my musical vocabulary so I can speak more eloquently about my musical tastes. It's a good album, I know it's an absolute classic. Iconic album cover as well. The recognizable hits on here are all total jams. Giving it a solid middle-of-the-road rating, I look forward to listening to more Elvis Costello - I know in this project there's plenty more to come.

Thought it was a very timeless album, could have been released any time from 1950s to now!

Definitely don't need 6 of this guy's albums, especially when this one is considered his best. They were all pretty solid tunes, best song by far was Pump It Up. 3.5

Meh/5

Inégal avec quelques trucs pas mal du tout. Ça s'écoute gentiment, mais ça restera pas dans les annales non plus.

A Fun album!

Pump it up and (I don't want to go to) Chelsea are the top songs. I love the new wave feel of this album. Groovy.

Maybe a light bulb moment with this album. Bass lines are funky and the guitars are jangly. Proper new wave meets the beach boys. This years girl with its penetrating mockery is perfect to me. No action, little triggers and pump it up just make me eye roll however. My problem is I just don’t love Costello’s vocals. Put on American accent (saying that I recognise my hyprocisy in American punk or rock mimicking British accents). Songwriting is top notch though. Released at the end of the 1970s this album’s a bridge for the kids who grew up on Beatles/Bowie moving into the 80s rock scene who stuck their nose up at 80s pop and 70s disco. Just scratching the surface of the feelings conveyed just before The Cure, The Smiths, Joy Division and Simple Minds.

Haven’t heard Elvis Costello, more rock than I was expecting but not sure if I like it too much.

Interesting, but not for me.

3- Stars (7/15)

Interesting album. I can hear a direct line from the 60s and 70s pop sound like the Beatles to the 80s new wave. Not a massive fan enjoyable enough. Only a 3 though, not the sort of thing I would listen to on the norm, but closer to a 4 than a 2.

New wave pop/rock punk som har inspireret store kunstnere som green day i nyere tid feks Yndlingssange er Chelsea Living in paradise The beat Lipstick vogue

6/10. Some good stuff but overall a bit blah at parts.

nice music but not interesting

As usual I think his music is fine, and often I find myself realizing I've heard a track or two of his. Other than that, it's not my favorite music in the world.

🤷‍♂️

Some good songs, little triggers and living in paradise were two favorites. Overall I feel like it wasn’t as much of a punk anti establishment album as people make it out to be. Very poppy and standard condensed songs

I don’t love costellos voice, songs sound similar, not bad or unpleasant just not for me

Didn’t pay all that much attention and nothing grabbed my attention either.

Costello makes some average ahh music. Nothing special about it

Enjoyed the lyrics and band performances of this but I'm not a massive fan of Costello's vocals. So much so that I don't think I'd listen to him regularly. Highlights are Pump It Up, Little Triggers & Lipstick Vogue.

1 or 2 cute songs. Not very into this type of melodies.

It seems like everywhere I go I see his name, but I’ve never heard his music until now. It has just never interested me, I guess. Solid rock and roll. Won’t listen to him before someone I like, though.

I like him more than I don't most of the time. Occasionally awesome, occasionally I want to turn him off.

Influental, energetic and iconic for sure, but not quite for me.

Good album.

Elvis Costello er fínn tónlistarmaðurbog allt það en ég skil samt ekki sjarmann sem hann hefur. Ég get alveg hlustað á hann og mér finnst lögin bara allt í lagi en ég myndi aldrei velja mér sjálfur að hlusta á hann. Lögin eru ekki nægilega góð til þess að mig langi til að hlusta á þau aftur

fine, just fine

Still sounds fresh. 3.5*

3.1 1x catch up 12/9

All sounded pretty similar. Fun songs but not my favorite for every day.

I love the punk influences in this album. Elvis Costello & Joe Jackson making punk more palatable for the masses, with out disrespecting the genre.

It was fun but I wasn't hooked

Was pretty good, although I didn't care much for it genre/style-wise. No Action, This Year's Girl, and Little Triggers were alright, rest of the album was kinda brain-numbing. Better than Ermes Costello as a character.

“Pump It Up” is a banger. Otherwise, I just don’t think Costello’s songwriting is for me.

Vintage, not quite showroom condition

this guy again feel bad for the guy who made this book, they're clearly a huge elvis costello fan and like everyone on this site is sick of hearing him. this is definitely my favorite elvis costello album i've heard so far. either that or I'm starting to warm up to him

It was typical Elvis. A little bit goes a long way. 3

It’s Elvis Costello

Goid

Listened Before? N Meh. I wrote a whole review for this and I lost it. Sadly, I think this one is a solid album but not really a stand out. Added to Library? N Songs added to playlist: Pump It Up

Quick and light hearted. The album felt much shorter than it actually is.

Not sure how much of my review reflects how I was listening to this (while at work) but this all felt very same-y. I like it a lot but there wasn't much variation in tempo, tone, etc. That being said, when I could "tune in" the bass lines in this were dope. One of these days I really need to get back into playing bass. Also, any time I listen to Elvis Costello, I'm reminded of a friend of mine who asked me what I was listening to back in high school one day. It was a local-ish pop rock band called Ultimate Fakebook. She listened to it and said "Oh, they've got a real Elvis Costello thing going on." I, being a stupid teenager, balked that my musical tastes were being compared to anything that remotely well-known/popular. This is coming 20+ years too late but, Kali, you were right. Ultimate Fakebook still rules. Real Drums Forever!

Well look what we have here another fricking Elvis Costello album. If this guy makes my Spotify top artist I’m blaming the guy who made this list. I picture him in his living Tom right now doing the gahdamn twist to this record while his wife looks on in utter horror. Now, with all that hate out of the way, this album wasn’t the worst out of his apparently vast discography. It was actually one of the more enjoyable ones that I didn’t mind having on in the background while got ready for work. So kudos to you list guy, you got one Elvis Costello album out of 1000 kinda right. 3.5/5 stars

Think this more enjoyable than other EC albums I've heard but I find it hard to get past his voice which kinda grates on me.

Funky oldies, ok

Out of my way, nerdlinger.

Solid 3. I immediately recognized Pump It Up as the song that Olivia Rodrigo’s Brutal was allegedly copying, so I’d say there’s at least a bit of merit to that claim.

Started out thinking this was at least a 4, with strong hits like “Pump it Up” (on my “Jackson” playlist), and “Radio Radio”. The rest of it was surprisingly bland, with memories of most of the tracks, but only a few still clicked with me — “Little Triggers”, “Hand in Hand” and “Lip Service”. Most of the rest started out fine but didn’t go anywhere. So down to a 3. Still waiting for “Imperial Bedroom”…

Extra star for doing an extra album in Spanish.

***An ok album

Fairly inoffensive.

I like his voice and the style but only a couple songs really grabbed me.

ну такое, приятное звучание гитар в начале, но регги вайбы не пнравились

Liked it better than I expected but still just kinda fine. Definitely more rock n roll than I thought Costello was

This is a nice pop CD, I know a lot of people who really love it and have listened to it before. Something about it just doesn't do it for me though. Even relative to other New Wave acts it's got three features that to me kind of drag it down. One, it's pretty lyrically-focused - that's his style, that's fine, but I don't really care too much about lyrics. On something like "Chelsea" he's spitting out words machine-gun style like Bruce Springsteen, but the harmonies and melodies are unexciting. Two, and this is related, Costello is a relatively poor singer - he's got limited range and kind of a reedy voice. The most excitement he generates with his voice on the whole CD is on "Pump It Up" where the whole band shouts the hook all at once - that's fun, but it's like a cover for his limitations. And last, for a power-pop-y CD, it's just not that lushly orchestrated. Compare it to Cars eponymous, which came out the same year and is obviously part of the same musical movement. Costello doesn't have the same depth of sound, the same wonderful vocal harmonies, the same massive hooks. I like "Pump It Up" a lot though. That's a winner.

I do not like Elvis Costello, but this probably the most tolerable of his works

I have no strong thoughts about this album either way. You can hear some of the more modern indie-rock in this record ahead of its time. But beyond that there is little lasting impression.

I have never really listened to Elvis Costello before this, something of a new discovery for me. In my head he was more in the realm of Nick Cave - don't know where I got that from - so was surprised at the poppy chirpy record coming through. I enjoyed listening to it.

I rather enjoyed a few tracks here. I’m not a New Wave guy, but this was pretty good. This is my first Costello album, but it’s my understanding that many people feel he is over represented on this list. I’m curious if my opinion of this one changes as I get more of his stuff generated.

good!

Fake Elvis revient avec un album plutôt correct, je dirais même un peu fun, rempli de chansons et de paroles.

Very monotone and not much musical variety on this one. Throughout his career he has managed to write several what I would consider classic long-lasting songs. The only one on this album is “Radio Radio”. Ok and maybe “Pump It Up”. But there are several clunkers (“Night Rally” and “Hand in Hand”). And lots of forgettables. Not his best work. Apparently there are four Elvis Costello albums on this list. This one could be removed to make room for somebody unrepresented.

I had never really listened to Elvis before this list. I was familiar with his hits, which I liked, but the first full album I tried was "Armed Forces," which I didn't care for. This album, along with "Imperial Bedroom," has been much better, and my impression will likely improve after repeated listening.

3 stars

no action- i hate his voice. 5 this years girl- 5 the beat- 5 pump it up- 4 little triggers- 4 you belong to me- 5 hand in hand- 6. i like the line "dont you know i got the bully boys out changing someones facial design" chelsea- i have a hunch this song is about sid and nancy. ok i dont think im right. oh well. 5 lip service- 5 or 6. song that plays when all the characters just got outta school and getting into their cars living in paradise- 5 or 6 lipstick vogue- 5 night rally- 6 big tears-5 radio radio- 5 it was ok

Some outstanding tracks like (I don’t want to go to) Chelsea, but I can only cope with Costello‘s vocals in small bursts.

Good. I had never listened to them but I can see why people like it

Overrated.

It was ok

I have listened this albums months ago. It is a good album but it is not may most suitable genre.

I love the vibe and the sound. Elvis has a lot to say, but never really seems to say anything. He doesn’t really let the tunes simmer, not a ton of instrumental breaks, yet I didn’t walk away feeling like I’d heard anything poetic or insightful, but maybe that’s just me.

no es mi estilo amiguin pero no taba malo

It's fine I suppose. I liked the hits on here and nothing stood out as bad or boring. Don't really see why Elvis Costello deserves 6 placements on this list though.

I like his edgy tone, kind of angry but cool. Some of the songs were good, others were just meh.

Started very promising but I lost a bit of interest

Nah still a 3 it’s catchy but I have and will hear better here

Nice tunes, nice voice, nice sound… won’t play it again though.

This album gives me 70's high school vibes or even like summer at the beach surfing. Elvis' voice is super forward and just has that perfect 'tang' to it that pulls you into each song, each crescendo - its great. I do think this album is a very specific listen where I'd need to be in the mood for it in order to really enjoy it, but it hit the spot today.

3.5

Listenable

Didn't have enough time but enjoyed what I heard

I've been kind of ambivalent about the previous Elvis Costello albums I've gotten from the list. I have to say, this was fun. I liked it and I think if I devoted some time to listening to it again, it would grow on me more. More of a 3.5.

Good album. Not really for me, but had a few really enjoyable tracks.

I don't think it was bad, I just didn't really like it. I bet this would be fun at a live show, but for sitting and listening as normal it wasn't for me. I can definitely hear how this was influential for other similar bands to follow.

this was released almost exactly at the midpoint between the death of Buddy Holly and the release of "Buddy Holly"... coincidence??

6/10

I'm not happy that ANOTHER one of his albums is on this list. And even more unfortunately, it's definitely the best one so far. 3.

This is my favorite Elvis Costello album to date. Personal enjoyment: 3/5 Relevance to this list: 3/5

Yllättävän hyvä eka biisi. Ja toka. Kolmas? Ja neljäs! Tämä on kai sitä Elvis C:tä, joka ihmisten mielestä ansaitsee kulttimaineensa (huijaan vähän: olen minä nämä biisit ennenkin kuunnellut). B-puolella artisti vajoaa siihen koulumestarimaisuuteen, joka on pitkään varjostanut hänen uraansa. Mutta myönnetään: Costello onnistuu maneereistaankin huolimatta. Ja ehkä vähän niiden takia.

if every song on here was as good as "pump it up" it would be a very good album! otherwise it's just OK. fav tracks: pump it up; the beat; you belong to me; (i don't want to go to) chelsea

Not his best but still a solid entry, Pump it Up is iconic

Never listened to this album before. Pump It Up and Radio, Radio are the singles, and the rest of the album is generally just annoying. Though some tracks seem to have inspired later, better, acts. Go To Chelsea in particular is a precursor to Mirror in the Bathroom, which was released 2 years later. The lyrics are better off being ignored as Elvis comes off sounding like an Incel. Barely giving it a 3

Thought this was a pretty clever line: Cause meanwhile up in heaven they are waiting at the gate Saying, "We always knew you'd make it, didn't think you'd come this late"

Definitely worth listening to. Unlike some albums, this was really easy to listen from beginning to end, and I wouldn't mind listening to it again. But "being easy to listen to", that's also the problem. Pretty much all of the songs are "good", but they don't evoke any strong feelings, in me at least...

Meh. A few really fun tunes. Overall not standout.

Liked this better than expected but still very much background music to me

I will always struggle with his voice but I didn’t hate this

3/5

Recognized some hita but overall eh

It gets the "I just listened to spiritualized" one star bump

Ihan kelpoa keskinkertaista rokkia. En tainnut aikasemmista Elvis Costellon levyistä niin pitää mutta tämä on kyllä parempi. Parhaat: The Beat, Hand In Hand, (I Don't Want To Go To) Chelsea

Never listened to this album before. Pump It Up and Radio, Radio are the singles, and the rest of the album is generally just annoying. Though since tracks seen to have inspired later, better, acts. Go To Chelsea in particular is a precursor to Mirror in the Bathroom, which was released 2 years later. The lyrics are better of being ignored as Elvis comes of sounding like an Incel. Barely giving it a 3.

Distinctive voice and generally good, although a bit punchy after a while.

So opposite of the other music of the 70's. Which made it interesting, and in retrospect, it still is

I really liked "My Aim is True" and bought it when it first came out. And then I was done with Elvis Costello. Everything I heard later didn't impress, and I felt guilty that I'd abandoned him. Listening to this album, I stand by my choices. Just not that interesting to me.

Ok album but too punk for me.

This was fine

mid but good

Pre-listening thoughts: I have heard the name Elvis Costello but he feels like one of those things I should know more about but don’t. Like it feels like not having seen The Sixth Sense like I just missed him somehow. Post/during listening thoughts: I would never guess that this was made in the 70s. You could tell me this was 90s/00s and I would believe you. The production is genuinely really great. I will agree with everyone and say there are too many Elvis Costello records on this list but I think at least 1 is worth a listen (not a “you HAVE to hear this before you die” kinda listen but rather a “this could hook you and you might enjoy it casually” kinda listen). It does sound like he’s saying “cause she’s dishes, girl” in This Years Girl 😭. I really like the sound of this though. It’s definitely good but I’m also not sure how memorable it is? Lotsa organ. This is good but nothing is super grabbing me. I think the second half is stronger than the first. I could definitely hear how pop punk stemmed from stuff like this. 6.5/10 DID I NEED TO HEAR THIS BEFORE I DIE: nope Fav tracks: No Action, (I Don’t Want to Go To) Chelsea, Lip Service, Lipstick Vogue, Radio Radio Least fav tracks: Little Triggers

Not my favorite Elvis album but not bad. 3.5

A marked improvement from the previous album. This one actually sounds like it was recorded by musicians and professionals, and features sone actually memorable tunes. Still comes off as generic and doesn’t really feel like it has an identity.

Good but didn’t impress me - Radio, Radio is always good though

Elvis Costello parece Berto Romero en la portada.

A good album to listen to if you want your child to think “who is that weird man,” “why are you listening to that weird man instead of hanging out with me,” and “I’m bored now I’m going to head to bed.”

Nothing too offensive, other than some iffy lyrics at times. Probably not one I'll revisit anytime soon and not too excited to get a bunch more albums from him. 2.5

it was like, okay. this is the first of the albums i've listened to where i didn't save any of the songs

This is fine. Maybe his best record as a whole that I've heard. Nothing against the songwriting or playing or style of it all but Elvis Costello just has a few hits for me and that's about it.

Nice Pop album

Enjoyable at the time, but writing this an hour after listening, it’s not memorable

This was the first Elvis Costello album I bought on vinyl. Largely bought because of music media reviews as a must have album. I remember been a bit disappointed when I got it home and listened. Like most Costello albums I’m familiar with it contains some great songs interspread with lesser forgettable ones. Good to hear the songs I like again but skipped through the filler ones. Technically a good album with fine musicianship. This was an iconic album at the time but for my tastes it has not stood the test of time. 3/5 12/7/24