Brutal Youth

Can imagine most of these songs being in an indie movie. Nasally vocals. Some songs sounds quite similar. Not bad though.

6/13/25. Really fun album, starting to believe Elvis Costello is an underrated songwriter. Knows how to write a song that pops.

Elvis Costello is brilliant. But it's so much output and it runs together. Hard to see myself going to this over a greatest hits collection. Also I feel like so much of his later work makes more sense if you're a fairly well-to-do Brit.

One of the best songwriters, every song here is well crafted

Really liked the vocals

good storytelling in his lyricism. Enjoyable songs even if you aren't dedicated to hearing the underlying story

This was better than his first album. Still a pretty flat album. Not my cup of tea

2/2

Nope

Solid. While I was unfamiliar with this album, it holds consistent with his earlier work. I will definitely have to relisten.

4/5

I like a handful of Costello songs, none of which are on this record. I was generally bored with this and was Just about Glad when it was over. I didn’t think it was All the Rage and I certainly would not say time spent was a Favourite Hour of this list. Sad to read we are in for a six pack with this cat.

I like that on this album there was a recaptured energy and at times rawness with Elvis’ return to working with The Attractions, but this was a slog to get through. Only to learn that we’ll have six of his albums as part of this exercise. That’s just ridiculous. I will reserve my high marks for the ones who deserve it. This unfortunately is not one of them. And that’s coming from a die hard Costello fan.

Brutal indeed. The cutting room floor was entirely too clean here, there’s no way you can convince me this album needed 15 tracks. Pretty dull. This exercise is teaching me different things about different artists. For EC, it’s teaching me that he’s on the ‘overrated’ side of the spectrum based on his notoriety.

I couldn’t get through this. I’ll never claim to have a great ear but I found the mix terrible. Especially the vocals. Sounded way out of balance and jarring. Needed some compression or something. I dunno. 1.5

I like some of this but there is something about his voice that I find grating... I simply don't understand all the love this guy gets. I assumed after his first album in this exercise we'd be getting lots more and appears we're getting six albums total. That’s simply ridiculous. Only a select few artists/bands deserve to be at that level and this Elvis is not one of them... I don't get it. Rounding down. 2.5/5

Kind of a brutal listen. Not all the instrumentation is bad, but his voice really where's on me

Better than coldplay

Ok, but not much new

Not a fan.

Yeah, nah. I agree with the review "I've come to the conclusion that Elvis Costello is annoying." Not sure who the reviewer is but that review was written on Christmas and I just imagine that making sitting through this album that much more annoying haha. Yeah this dude just seems like an Ed Debevics character. A caricature of the baby of Buddy and Bruce that grew into a teenager on a show with no budget written by studio stooges motivated by getting promoted. Brutal Youth. Still better than Metallica. 1.5

a good Costello

Elvis... altijd goed voor een paar nummers... maar een album na elkaar is te veel...

Brutal listening experience.

People here really don't like Elvis Costello, but this album is really good! I think it's easily my favorite of his that I've had here as there are a couple of songs that I enjoyed. Kinder Murder is my favorite. It has a really addictive ear worm and I like how the chorus progresses. These songs are pretty lyrically dense, so I think I'd need another listen to really understand it, but for pop, it passes. The other standout for me is London's Brilliant Parade.

Not an all-hits no-filler like armed forces etc but some pretty great songs in here nonetheless

Didn't enjoy this as much as My Aim is True. Particularly after Scott 4 over the weekend a lot of the songs feel too busy, with too much going on, and are pretty forgettable. Some likeable stuff in here too, but no great shakes.

Overall, the best Costello I've listened to so far on this list.

Goodish songwriting. Production fine. Just can’t past the singing. And the fact that I have no answer to the question “what’s the point?” I mean I’m not against it…

Forgettable more then anything

i'm ok

it was so boring and bland, at least musically, and the lyrics also didn't do anything for me.

I know he's a good songwriter and musician but I just don't enjoy listening to Elvis Costello. Rating: 2

addictive

Started off ok, then started to sound like a parody. Not for me.

his voice must be put on surely

please stop it with the elvis costello albums. I cannot bear to listen to another one.

Ok guys, it's just too much of Elvis Costello in here. I'm not able to listen to his music anymore, my body has a pre-birth lock at around 20 songs, this is it. Goodbye forever Elv.

Not as many songs grabbed my attention as other records of his I have heard .Still ok .

Talk about Brutal. Elvis Costello is 98% noises to me.

Yawn

Not even a great album for the 90s, much less all time. Definitely should not be on this list. A complete waste of time.

Never really was a fan of this Elvis

yet another costello album? to be fair, it might as well be the first (or the only) one as I have absolutely no recollection of how a single song on the other album I've listened to goes. and I just learned there are 6 of his albums on this list in total. 6!!! the first song: what in the musical for adults that think they're too cool to listen to musicals is going on here? the rest of the songs: WHY is this here? this album doesn't even have a single hit in comparison to his other albums. it's just so unremarkable and boring. ironically, this is hell is about the only song I liked.

I see the appeal but certainly not my favorite

Well, it wasn't horrible, but it wasn't interesting. Boring. Dear God. But it was better than his first.

Don't care for it

Nice album

I didn’t enjoy this at all.

There's nothing wrong with this album I just think that Costello is not for me.

it's ok.

Elvis Costello has a pretty unique sound which is on full display on this album. I didn't mind this album, but I wouldn't say it hooked me either. After listening to it, I don't really remember any standout song. I could take it or leave it.

I like Elvis Costello but this album felt like it was missing something. Maybe the artist's vision is something I can't see, or hear in this case, but whatever it is, the album will be remembered for its emptiness more than it's magnificence.

I love Elvis Costello more than anyone except, apparently, the person who wrote 1001 Albums, because Brutal Youth, while fun, is probably his 10th or 11th best album, if we're being totally honest, and I know for a fact that there's only 6 total on here.

This is my 6th Elvis Costello album on this list...it's a bit too many, isn't it? This album was okayish at the beginning, but it is around 4-5 songs too long, in my opinion. Some of the songs don't go anywhere. Some albums I liked better and gave them a 3 star, and one 4 star, but since it's too many albums by him on this list, I'll give this a 2.

2/10

This one didn’t do a lot for me. It’s hard to pinpoint any specific reason why. I didn’t dislike it, but I just didn’t really like any of it. Maybe Costello is just one of those artists that aren’t for everyone. I kinda felt about it the way I do Bruce Springsteen. I can listen to one or two of his songs and enjoy them, but any more than that and I’m over it. There’s something grating there that I can only stand for so long. Having to hear 15 of his tracks in a row over 57 minutes was too much for me. The length was definitely a negative, as I was ready for it to end with several songs left. Also, a lot of it sounded the same. Maybe that’s on me, but I can only recall a few songs individually from the whole thing. Nothing really stood out as something memorable or good (or particularly bad for that matter). It instead was a big blend of mediocre. Overall: 2.1/5

Didn't like it. All sounded the same. I do like his voice, but after a while you start to notice how bad a singer he is.

Downhill fast after the first few tracks. Saved by the opening

Solid Attractions record, a few bangers, overall a fun listen

Chill and rhythmic

Classic Elvis Costello. This is good stuff, not necessarily his best but something any Costello fan should listen to, and new listeners would get a good taste of him. A definite "listen".

Rewatched E.T. the other day and noticed Elliott has an Elvis Costello poster on his bedroom wall. This must be my third or fourth EC album on here and I'm still not a big fan.

Perfectly fine 90s rock music. I had no idea who he was besides that Simpsons episode. I guess he was never really relevant outside the US. I have no idea why he has so many albums on this list. This is just my first one. So we'll see.

Gonna be real, I’ve never listened to Elvis Costello before, despite hearing of him a lot. I’m sad it took me this long. This album is, idek how to describe this pop-rock style. It’s, so different than the others. The first song missed for me but the rest hit, and hit really good. Kinder Murder was such a banger.

It started off fun, but as it dragged on, and boy did it drag on, it just got repetitive and boring. Like sure its fun, but does this of all things really deserve to be on a list for music you really have to listen to? Like the whole thing just sounds so similar that it feels like at least 7 of the songs are just the same song. Also why are there 6 Elvis Costello albums on here. He's such an okay artist, he deserves a singular album. Not 6.

на вокале не помешал бы ревер, а так норм, парочка песен понравилась.

3.0 - Ok

I'll check a couple of tracks of this album out. I heard another one of his albums on this list earlier. First time really checking out Elvis. The first track reminds me of Fall Out Boy a bit. Very cool tracks. Rocking a bit.

I prefer his earlier work.

Definitely a middle-of-the-pack album for Elvis Costello. Not his best.

Not warming up to this douche in the slightest. Occasionally the guitar will come in and I’ll think maybe this one will be okay and then his insipid voice comes in and ruins it. I think I only have one more of his records left, mercifully.

The 1001 albums list needs to learn that post-This Year’s Model Elvis ain’t worth yer time! Also… what in the hell, was that the N-word in 20% Amnesia? It’s not, but… who in the hell thought that was ok

I like the music that came after this more than the original stuff. Not a bad album though.

Like a worse Tom Petty

You know, it’s weird, Kinder Murder could be the best track on the album and it wore out the appeal for me before it was even finished. I kept thinking, man, this is a long song and then I look and it’s under 4 minutes. Too repetitive but still, possibly the best song in the album. Hmmmmm Ya well, I was right. Best song on the album. This album is bland. That’s all Bland Choice cut: Kinder Murder

Man this project has a lot of Costello on it. I guess I'm well versed in him now. This is my 6th album of his. He's grown on me. While his tone is still kinda dorky to me, he's a great songwriter, able to evoke emotion in lyrics and delivery, often weaving a little 50s doowop sound into the mix

Many of the songs had a repetitiveness to them. But if the song is good, it outweighs the repetition. And for me, some of the songs get there. But not all of them. Songs like "13 Steps Lead Down," "This Is Hell," and "20% Amnesia" got a little tiresome; they just didn't hold up because of the repetition. But other songs, like "Kinder Murder" really shone through. My personal favorite was "My Science Fiction Twin," the lyrics were pretty funny. Costello's vocals worked for the songs, although I can imagine how some may not be a fan. Top tracks: "Kinder Murder," "Clown Strike," "My Science Fiction Twin"

I guess this album shows that after about a decade, Elvis Costello and some of the Attractions could still make decent music. Or, put another way, he/they were still relevant. But relevant is not the same as unique, amazing, or a must listen. I enjoyed listening to it, but if this was the only Costello album on this list I might wonder what the big deal is. Yet, this is his sixth entry, which seems unnecessary. All in all, a slightly higher than average album with some fun, energetic, and cleverly-worded songs Costello is known for - Pony St, Kinder Murder, 13 Steps Lead Down, 20% Amnesia, My Science Fiction Twin, and Just About Glad. I didn't care as much for his slower songs, except for Rocking Horse Road and Favourite Hour.

Ah, the age old question - is Elvis Costello the most ridiculously over-represented artist on the 1001 or Leonard Cohen? At least I don't mind Costello's music, so I'll give the edge to Cohen for most over-represented artist. My formula remains: no artist should have multiple albums unless they evolve significantly between albums (e.g., Bowie, Floyd) or their albums are simply iconic (Led Zep) or both (Beatles). This doesn't sound much different than his other albums on the 1001. It's not bad, but it's not so great to warrant its inclusion with so many other Elvis Costello albums. Favorite tracks: Pony St., Kinder Murder, 20% Amnesia. Next.

The man can't sing, the songs doesn't have anything special and somehow his whole discography is on the 1001 albums list. This is probably my sixth Costello album so far and I really dislike his music.

Meh not my style

Power Pop going uppy downy on every syllable in the vocals and in the harmonies. Glad this is over now.

One of my favourite Elvis Costello albu.s and o e you find yourself feeling like you know the words, you find yourself singing along unconsciously

I feel like Elvis falls somewhere in between Buddy Holly and Rivers Cuomo in terms of vocalists. Not really as interesting as either of those two, but certainly as distinct. Not really familiar with his discog, and while I felt this was a pretty inoffensive effort, it also didn't blow my socks off. Would be interested to hear more from him, and I could see this one growing on me, but it doesn't feel like the strongest introduction

Kind of boring — nothing really grabbed me. (Tim: “A lot of classic-sounding EC arrangements — heard stuff I want to hear again. 4 stars.)

Album 741 of 1001 Elvis Costello - Brutal Youth (1994) Rating : 3 / 5 I like Elvis Costello and but this doesn't hit like much of his other releases. Nothing jumping out for me here. Kind of meh throughout.

He has better. Love this little man though.

Not my favorite album of his, but not baf

meh, lost the saved comments, here's the dj comparing brutal with a Elvis Costello song, the CD era gave the liberty to artists to lenghten their albums without caring about quality control https://www.youtube.com/shorts/mnibauANPaQ

https://rateyourmusic.com/music-review/MystyLakes/elvis-costello/brutal-youth/246425351 He’s not even the main Elvis!

bro needs an editor

3/10 excruciatingly long, stop British people now

Oh the sigh I sighed when this one came up. But I will say this was better than the last Costello album I pulled (Piss & Chocolate or whatever it was called) which I think made me not as miserable.

Coming into this review I was not at all familiar with Elvis Costello. My initial impressions of this album are that the lyrics and vocal stylings feel very "punk" sounding but don't really follow the same up tempo, quick pace that punk music I'm accustomed to usually is. Costello's voice is sardonic sounding but with enough grit to where it maintains that punk sound. It's something that's difficult to put into words but you really just have to hear it for yourself. This is a record I wish I would've followed along with the lyrics a little more closely but the musicianship and instrumentation is fun and has a playful cynicism I appreciate. Will absolutely return to this one in the future! Standout tracks are: "13 Steps Lead Down", "This is Hell", "London's Brilliant Parade", "Just About Glad"

I dig Elvis Costello - but another 15 songs? They all kinda sound the same as the last album....and the one before that....and the other one before that....

It’s mostly okay, it does have good highlights but someone needed to tell Mr Elvis to trim it down a bit

****A good album

vier bis fünf

Lyrics are excellent, but that's really the only thing I like about Elvis Costello. Genuinely have no reason reason why it doesn't work for me, but it really doesn't.

3/5. Ah, another Elvis Costello album. I enjoy some of his stuff but I feel like there are too many albums on here to expect something different. This is about mid range what I expect from Elvis, but still fairly good. Much better songwriting and signing from him as well, kind of like a reinvigoration of his earlier work. I know this one isn't going to be a constant revisit but whenever I am craving Elvis, this will be on the rotation. Best Song: Clown Strike, Sulky Girl, Rocking Horse Road

Brutal Youth? More like Brutal me! This is the sixth album I've listened to on this journey and somehow Elvis Costello made it feel like the sixth circle of hell. He sounds like a man angrily reading Yelp reviews over a garage band. I survived, but at what cost?

Nope. Don't know what to tell you. This is Elvis Costello at his most competent kind of, sort of without the Attractions. No idea what it was one of the inclusions on this list. Six Costello albums?

What a comeback to rock album! Elvis’ voice is beautifully mature here too. Some of the later songs feel a bit like fluff but mostly a collection of gems.

This isn't really that good. The band feels unsure of what kind of sound they want. The album as a whole is not quite rock, not quite folk. There are a few songs where they commit to one style over the other, and it actually makes sense. And Elvis's voice is slimy. Like slippery, but not really enjoyable. There's really just not much that I end up liking about this album. There are a few moments where things might start coming together, but for the most part it's mediocre and occasionally bad. Favorite Song(s): -

I really liked this album when it was released. Now, 30 (30! Holy crap!!!!!!) years later it has become one of my favorite EC albums. It may be my favorite. It’s certainly the one I am currently listening to most these days.

Half way though I thought I’d give it the benefit of the doubt and go for 2 stars. By the end, solid one.

p730. 1994. 4 stars Costello and the Attractions on top form. Cynical, razor sharp lyrics that make you want to take a shower after listening, and some cracking tunes. Point deducted for his voice, which is annoying.

Fuck world peace or having loads of money. My single greatest wish is that this is the last Elvis Costello album I have to listen to. 🙏

Very good but not classic Costello

Hat mir gar nicht gefallen

Based on the font used on the album cover I thought this was going to be something a little more hard and brutal. Instead it was a mix of lounge pop that is super critical of everything. This is Hell, Sulky Girl, You Tripped, All the Rage...just weird annoying critical angry sadness and at the same time reminding us he is smarter than us. Then his voice just adds to the mehness, like he can't even really singing or rock. 20% Amnesia had some hope of being better, but them just repeating 20% amnesia over and over was just so obvious. At least the song sort of lived up to the cover font! His lyrics are kind of interesting if you read them, but the rest is just so meh and lack luster, why exactly is Elvis Costello so loved? I notice his album summary is one of the few to mention he was included in this list, just trying to remind us all of his amazingness...if you remind people enough maybe they will believe you. I found myself checking the track list over and over to see how much was left, that is not a good sign.

I'm trying to figure out what I don't like about Elvis Costello. I don't totally dislike it. The elements for good music are there. The instrumentation is great. The song writing is not that bad. His voice is fine. Mostly I think I just don't like his melodies and the poetry of his lyrics don't really grab me. But on the second listen through this, focusing more on the music than the vocals, there's some great music going on in the background. Does Mr. Costello have an instrumental album?

"Just stop playing that bad mood music." Take your own advice, man. I don't really know what he's singing about, sometimes he seems pretty angry at women, but I'm not sure I really care because it has a very sterile feeling to it. It doesn't make me happy, or reflective, or emotional, or angry. It just makes me feel nothing. The only other group I can think to liken that feeling to is Coldplay. It's fine. And that's it.

Not feeling this one at all. Forced singing, nothing that interesting musically. There are simply too many Elvis Costello albums on this list. One, or maybe none, would suffice.

Good, Not great but fun listening experience, might reviset at some point

Distinct sound. Elvis C has a good style of lyrics and music

Hit or miss, but mostly miss. While most songs have their moments, the album is plagued by two issues. First, the production has this really annoying, almost wheezing sound that's constantly there. Second, every song is 90% a repetitive refrain that consists of Elvis repeating the song title over and over until any chance of the song not being irritating is completely pulverized into nothing. 2.5/5.0: Mixed

round 4 thought he was growing on me but this is like his most whatever album. couple great songs but most of it is very forgettable

Initially, I didn’t like it as much as other Elvis Costello albums but the more I listened the more I liked it.

Nice!!

this album is just so irrelevant, the most streamed song only has two million streams and some of these songs get like twenty a day it’s mid too

Poppy rock ballads mostly. Not bad but dragged on too long. He sings very clearly. Stand-out: Pony St.

Master lyricist Fun fact, “This Is Hell” is used when Gilmore Girls’ (most important??) character Jess Mariano is first introduced in the series 😂 “Still Too Soon To Know” is a heartbreaking song, so is “All the Rage” in its own way (“Don’t try to touch my heart, it’s darker than you think” 👽)

If Randy Newman was a wedding band

First time hearing this aside from “Sulky Girl.” Not my favorite album of his, but what a creative songwriter, there’s a lot to enjoy here as there always is with Elvis Costello

C'mon now, Elvis, we all know you can do better than this. You were supposed to *border* on the obnoxious, not land smack in the middle of it. Should have left that circus organ in the attic, buddy.

- gefiel mir irgendwie besser, als die Alben, die wir bisher von Costello hatten (vielleicht war ich bei den anderen Alben nicht in der richtigen Stimmung dafür, who knows) - es wird viel an seiner Stimme gemäkelt, finde die absolut in Ordnung - insgesamt war es für mich eine stimmige Platte, teilweise fühlte es sich an, wie Filmmusik - es hat allerdings kein Song besonders herausgestochen

I like it. Maybe becoming a fan? Certainly wouldn't skip it. Solid three stars.

At its very best, Brutal Youth just makes me wish I was listening to This Year’s Model. At its very worst, it is some of the absolute worst music I have ever heard in my entire life. But most of the time, it feels like an artist well past his prime, dragging the lake of creativity for even the faintest semblance of an idea, and then trying his damndest to make sure he isn’t plagiarizing himself from a decade before, which results mostly in self-parody, and sometimes in songs that just feel like they were written by an alien who didn’t really do their homework on what human music actually sounds like. There’s just enough– and I mean literally the barest minimum possible– to keep me from hating this with every fiber of my being. Three (3!) songs keep this from being one of the worst records I’ve ever heard, and one of them, “Just About Glad,” is only good in comparison to the trash surrounding it. The other two songs, “Kinder Murder” and “You Tripped at Every Step,” are what I would call ✨tolerable✨ aka they are not good songs or songs I want to listen to, but either because I like Costello by default or simply by the sheer force of will from the hooks, I can’t reject them outright. Everything else, though, is utter garbage, even when an okay hook or riff somehow slips in via a miracle. Brutal Youth is my absolute limit of tolerability for music. Just because you like an artist early on in their career does not mean that their later output will continue at the same quality, even when [or, especially when] they do little to actually change up their style.

> The Beatles

Brutal indeed. Another fucking Elvis Costello album. Whatever, might as well get them over with. I don't really have anything to say about this one. His music was annoying in the 70s and its annoying in the 90s. Favorite track: Kinder Murder 1.5/5

Oof. Brutal indeed Shite songs and a terrible voice 2 ⭐️

Schon nach den ersten Sekunden hatte ich das Gefühl: Das ist Rockmusik für Leute, die keine Rockmusik mögen. Eingängige Songs mit konventionellen Strukturen, erwartbar instrumentiert und gespielt – alles sauber, alles ordentlich, aber ohne Ecken und Kanten. Elvis Costellos Gesang erinnert mich entfernt an Rod Stewart, weniger im Klang als in der Art, wie er sich unangenehm in den Vordergrund drängt und für mich diesen typischen Radiorock-Vibe verkörpert. Er ist jedenfalls ein sehr schlechter Sänger. Ich habe mich wirklich schwer getan, diesen generischen Sound durchzustehen, und war ehrlich gesagt erleichtert, als das Album vorbei war. Einen Favoriten? Gab es nicht.

February 23, 2025 Album #412 was my fifth and last Elvis Costello (Imperial Bedroom), now we’re at #1056. I pretty much enjoyed them all, but he hasn’t really stayed in my regular rotation since then. Hence I can’t really back up my opinion why I was cold on his debut, My Aim Is True, or why I markedly favoured Blood and Chocolate. It was like 3 years ago ;( What I do know is that it doesn't press the dopamine button the same way Imperial Bedroom and This Year's Model have. Reuniting with the Attractions was a good move (the soulful lushness of "All the Rage" comes to mind), but I don't know why that isn't reflected in the album packaging. (Diva.) The book cites this as an especially angry album of his. Maybe it's as simple as the more overtly cynical he gets, the less I enjoy the album overall 3.5 "Pony St", "This Is Hell", "Still Too Soon to Know", "13 Steps Lead Down"

A full album is too much of his whiney sneer

The better of the Elvis Costello ones we’ve had. ‘Still too soon to know’ being the highlight. 2.5 rounded down

The idea behind this list is that it’s 1001 albums that might be considered “essential listening”. A 15-years-past-his-prime Elvis Costello is NOT that. There’s nothing on this album that he doesn’t do better on This Year’s Model.

My fourth encounter of an Elvis Costello album on this list, and my patience for him is running pretty darn thin. And honestly, I don't have much new to add. Costello's voice is goofy and distinctive (in a bad way), completely overpowering the other instruments in terms of what captures the listener's attention. It has the unfortunate effect of making all of his music sound very similar. The cons of this album, in my opinion, are shared by all of Elvis's other works. Something about his voice frustrates me, like it's in an uncanny valley between a few other, better vocalists. He sounds *kind of* like Billy Joel, the better Elvis, the Strokes, and a few other rock bands from various eras mashed together. Another problem, related to that one, is that the music doesn't really bring anything new to the party, other than some decent compositions. The style is an odd sort of soft-punk, with clear 50s/60s R&B and rock influences. There's a lot of jangly noise that, with a better singer, could have easily entrenched itself in the realm of 80s/90s music legends. Sulky Girl is a key example of Costello's bad singing. It's delivered in a sneery, nasally manner that's tough to actively listen to, let alone take seriously, for the full 5 minutes of track length. My Science Fiction Twin, along with the tracks that come after it, is also pretty bad in this regard. Actually, Brutal Youth does have a pretty solid run of songs at the beginning, from Pony St. through to This Is Hell. But it's safe to say 57 minutes is too long to put up with Elvis Costello. And any more albums from him pose a real threat of getting a 1-star rating. 2/5 Key tracks: Pony St., Kinder Murder, This Is Hell

ja, hörbar, auch nicht mehr

Rating: 6/10 Pretty decent, not his best but far from his worst.

A song writer of some talent. There’s always a certain standard to his work but sometimes a little bit samey. Not his best but still good

Similar to modern Paul Weller in a way, all the money in the world to produce a nice polished album but he has nothing to say.

First album I could not finish

Overall unremarkable, didn’t love his voice

Mediocre at best.

Pretty lame in my opinion. It's like he wanted to be bruce but is nowhere close. Felt fake and his voice is fairly annoying. I like some of his stuff but not his. I guess it was a little catchy at times so no the worst thing.

If the author needs to make room for newer records, this can easily be removed. I like it, but it sounds too much like his old albums to be on the list. Favorite song: 13 steps lead down

Elvis at his best.

Man's got a voice fit for Broadway, and seems to try to incorporate a Broadway feeling/vibe into his vocal style - which doesn't always land (for me). I didn't NOT enjoy it, but probably wouldn't be pressed to revisit it anytime soon.

Not a fan of Elvis Costello and his voice

Feels like it's supposed to be lyric driven ...rock, pop, alternative... Not sure how to describe it, but most of it just didn't resonate with me.

Quality

1/5

Stop trying to make Elvis Costello happen, it’s not going to happen.

Maybe I’m jumping the gun starting this review 4 songs in but it’s pretty corny right? I also cannot believe the Spotify bio on this man. “A sneering spitfire, the smartest and meanest singer/songwriter in the first wave 1970’s punk rock”. He’s singing about a clown strike with “la la la” in the background. Joe Strummer is rolling in his grave. I guess the next bit of his bio talking about how he bounces around genres is true enough because the contrast of that opening sentence and this album couldn’t be any starker in my mind. I only knew Costello from the “We are the world” video and idk what I expected but I’m still disappointed. He just feels pretentious. I can’t deny the songs and lyrics have some complexity to them but it’s the way he overemphasizes his singing. I can see the talent but it’s all hidden by the way he chooses to sing and arrange the music. He’s too giddy to be singing about anything deep yet it seems he insists on trying to do that. 20% amnesia at least sounds kind of punk. I would’ve preferred an album of that style. I can’t fuck with the rest.

I’m just not gonna get into his style I feel. 13 steps lead down is a saving grace but I probably wouldn’t go back to this album.

I just really hate his voice. It sounds like a karaoke bar where some guy is really going for it and no one has the balls to tell him he is making everyone’s ears bleed.

Virgin Michael Buble.

Becoming more and more aware that there’s really only two Elvis Costello songs I want to come back to, and neither are on this album. Wasn’t bad, and I do love the ear tickle you get when he goes on a vocal run, it’s just not something I’m all that into. Middle of the road like my feelings towards Elvis Costello’s music.

56 minutes is entirely too long to have to listen to Elvis Costello's voice.

I'm now two Elvis Costello albums in on this list and I don't think I'm a fan overall. The album is fine, a bit long, but nothing overall stood out to me as a banger or song that I really latched onto. Its fine, but whatever. 1994, you know what kind of absolute bangers were going on in this time period?! Jar of Flies, Unplugged in New York, Superunknown, Vitalogy, like this year was STACKED.

This is kinda dumb. A third Elvis Costello record? Not pumped for this one. Well I was wrong. Different from the others and had a great sound to it. I wouldn’t mind listening to this one again. Nice ballads, some upbeat, some chill some attitude. I think most surprised by his voice I liked it this time around more than I thought. Only checked a couple of song credits and there were other writers - not sure if they covers or he don’t write anything. Listened again a little closer. It’s fine. Three stars.

Best Elvis Costello album, but I still don't really get him

OMFG how is there yet more Elvis Costello!?!! My last review pointed out I'd rated him 3, 3, 2, 2 so far and then gave the last one a 1 out of spite. I still feel spiteful. I really don't want to live in his world.

I have liked some Elvis Costello songs over the years (Everyday I Write The Book, Allison, Veronica) but have never actually listened to one of his albums. I was pleasantly surprised how much I liked it.

"This Is Hell" was actually written in reference to listening to this album.

This was better than I initially expected! I mostly thought it would be basic power pop (And at times, it is) but it manages to keep it interesting by not just playing to the same old style but also doing more with it to create some really pleasant and enjoyable songs (2nd and 3rd were my favorites probably) A pleasant surprise all around.

Once again met with an Elvis Costello album, once again finding it wasn't really my cup of tea. Good instrumentalset with vocal work I can't appreciate. It was somewhat better than the first one I listened to, but not by a whole lot.

13 Steps Lead Down is a good tune. Still Too Soon To Know is not my cup of tea. I do love the story of Elvis basically remaking the Attractions. My Science Fiction Twin is good. Favorite Hour is a fine ender.

Eh

I’m sorry. I just can’t get into Costello’s voice. He projects through strained vocal cords, and the rest of the time he just sounds like a muppet trying his best to sound like Dylan.

Elvia Costello doesn’t miss often for me. Although there are a few misses on this record, it’s thoroughly enjoyable. I listened to this because of the 1001 list. Elvis Costello has 6 albums on said list. I have yet to get one I haven’t enjoyed, and as good as this is, I’m not sure it belongs on the list.

Very good back to basics album

Some songs stand out, but it is a boring album.

Loved my aim is true but this didn't quite hit the mark.

solid album, i enjoyed every second and time flies so fast when listening into this album, genius writing and a bit sarcastic but i like it

A kind of underrated LP from EC — glad to see it's on this list.

All the songs sound the same to me.

3 maybe 4

I'm a fan of Costello, but this album was a chore to get through. Half of the lyrics sound like he woke up from a fever dream and just jotted that shit down, never proofread and immediately committed it to tape. The vocals are too much in pretty much every sense, with off key high harmonies mixed almost in front of the lead vocals. Very few tracks live up to his previous work on just writing alone. Sulky Girl and Kinder Murder pretty good.

More like Brutal Album. Elvis Costello, I've come to find out, can be quite controversial as far as musical tastes go. I'm not really a fan of his; just can't stand that voice of his (sings like a stuffy nose). Yes, he's quite talented and all that, but man I do not get him. 4/10.

Never been a big fan of Elvis Costello, mainly due to his voice. So was curious to see how this album 'panned out'. The opening tracks reinforced my worst fears, wobbly/quivering verses and loud stomping/shouty chorus. I can recall an episode of Frasier were EC was performing in the cage were Nialls and Frazer frequented. The joke was once he started playing Nialls snootily complained whilst everybody else cheered EC. For once I was in complete agreement with Nialls. Terrible racket! The album then seemed to settle down and melody was more audible. Things settled down and I quite liked This is Hell and Clown Strike. Overall, I get why people like EC but its just not my cup of tea. 3 stars from me.

It really is getting quite grating seeing Elvis Costello pop up in the 1001 Albums You Must Hear Before You Die. Let’s be real, most people have heard one or two songs of his. So why are so many albums considered essential? He’s not even the main Elvis! Anyway, today’s album was very much more of the same, with nothing particularly standing out much. If this was the first of his I’d heard then perhaps I’d have liked it more, but it’s just the same thing over and over again at this point. Listening to so many of his albums has actually made me find him a bit annoying.

1.3 Elvis Costello AGAIN! How?! I think he's now my most common artist. More than the Beatles. More than Zeppelin. More than Pink Floyd. More than Radiohead. In the 1,001 albums everyone needs to hear. This is completely mental right. I can only assume the guy who made it is either his son, his best mate, is severely indebted to him, has had their family kidnapped by him, or is deaf and got his Elvis' mixed up. Anyway, to the music itself. Shite.

I have liked some of the Elvis Costello on this list but this is really not great

Fav song: This Is Hell Some cool ideas on most tracks which are quickly ruined by Elvis Costello’s ability to sound incredibly smarmy in every possible situation. Ironically the other songs I liked on this album all sounded like him trying to sound like David Bowie, so there’s that I suppose.

This is a pretty boring album. Elvis Costello could have a better chance for me to appreciate him if there weren't six albums of his on here. He isn't awful. Kind of interesting at times. But this is way too much.

Again I rolled my eyes seeing Elvis Costello pop up. I think I would need to be British and coming of age in the early 1980s stuck on an island with limited choice to care about Elvis Costello. I don't think he is an interesting vocalist. An English man pretending to be an American rebel from the 1950s. The music that a checkered floor in a diner would make if it could. They don't need Costello on here 6 times. It's pointless. I might want 100% amnesia after this. How did this guy trick so many people. He should sell off his assets, stupid hats, and donate 99.88% of any money he made off of music to other musicians his age that might be struggling financially. He should be ashamed of the life he lives off of his music. It feels like a music label executive bought him his carrier. I guess we can all have different taste in music. Enjoy.

It’s ok

Costello breaks everything down and makes a bare boned album that allows his songs to breathe. As a Costello fan I really like the "closeness" of this album. Does it need to be on this list though? Probably not. Best Tracks: 13 Steps Lead Down; Clown Strike; Sulky Girl

Elvis fan, who can get bored with Elvis too. So I suppose the album fits both. Musically I think it's quality, and I am among those who appreciate his vocals. But it does drag. Lyrics, when I catch them, are typical of Elvis. Thought out, intentional and elegant.

Few standout tracks, Kinder Murder is great, basically anyhting that sounds like his first two albums. The rest is just ok.

It’s Elvis Costello it’s at the least going to be pretty OK. And this one is… pretty OK. No real gems, but a solid record: it sounds like him, the production is good. He’s done better. Many have done far worse.

It was ok. Didn't really connect for me like his first 3 albums. It was lacking energy for me.

This was my least favorite of the Costello albums so far, but there is enough good here that I'd listen to it again.

Not bad, but I don't really understand why it's here. By all means, educate us about EC's late 70s contributions to the quirkier side of British pop. But I don't think this represents anything very interesting about 1994. It feels like the selecter just thought, ooh, Elvis Costello did a decent 90s album that no-one knows about. Well, it turns out, so he did. It's quite good in places. Some of the lyrics are very good. But it's not very exciting - in fact it really drags in the middle - nor, as far as I'm aware, is it representative of any notable musical developments at that date: the best bits hark back to the sounds of the mid-70s, which were done better by other people; sorry Declan.

I’ve enjoyed the Costello stuff on here a lot but this isn’t one of his best I think. Probably got enough albums on here hasn’t he

Wanging on with his weird voice. Seems to have lost some of the enthusiasm of the other Elvis Costello albums we've had too many of

Very nice! Powerful and mild voice! I like it.

Like his earlier stuff better.

Elvis doesn’t miss

#458. This is about as mediocre as it gets, which talking about this guy, that's about as good of praise as it gets. 2/5: meh Song added to playlist: This is Hell I've created a playlist on Spotify that consists of the best and/or my favorite song from each of the albums in this book. This list can be found here if you are interested: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/7MAXDGLWlwLkFLb8veGfkA?si=FqkQQPgZTFWG0jAUJXLFZA&utm_source=copy-link

Never been a Costello fan. This was cool, but I just can't really figure him out. I'll give it another listen to see if I can find something I can get into. Right now it's a 2 star for me.

"Most rock critics love Elvis Costello because they look just like him." -DLR I don't hate Elvis Costello. I just don't care about him. I don't get how many people put him on a pedestal and love him so much. To me he is astoundingly mediocre. I like about 6 EC songs. To Elvis Costello fans that sounds like I hate him. I'll tell you what I DO hate though. This album! It fucking sucks!

very fun, as costello is

jesus, the editors of this book have a real hard on for Elvis Costello. He's. Not. That. Great. This album was ok. But why did I need to listen to it?

My first Costello ! I can see a lot of the talent here and it’s certainly polished and well produced with good vocals and instrumental work . It doesn’t have the consistency or z factor for me to give it a 4 but it’s a very solid work and enjoyable listen

Better than unexpected this to be. Some of records are great while others are just bland. Strange but that’s how I feel.

kinda just dreadfully boring, especially when you compare it to the many other fantastic other albums from 94

I'm definitely not an Elvis Costello fan. I haven't heard a lot of his stuff, and after listening to this album I can now say that I'm not a fan. I was bored throughout, and it all sounded so samey to me

Elvis Costello really likes to repeat the same words over and over again in his songs, kinda forcing the ear worm. There's some pretty funky sections in 13 Steps Lead Down. However, falls victim again to saying the same words over and over again. Elvis' voice really doesn't stray away. He has a typical sound that persists in all of his songs. I like the band more than the singer, and I'd like to hear more from them. I think I'd like Elvis' music more if I didn't have to listen to an entire album of it.

Very fun, not super special imo

Probably not in my top 10 EC albums. Pretty standard fair but EC is always interesting

This album is very middle of the road. Aside from one or two songs I don't think it is all that interesting or memorable. A bit of an odd duck here where I don't get the reason for it's inclusion.

Not popping like his other albums.

i always thought i kind of liked elvis costello but maybe i don’t because i couldn’t get through this album. has his voice always been this annoying?? how is this considered one of the 1001 albums to hear before you die??

Solid, some peaks with good tracks but samey. Not Costello's best, and doesn't help the over-representation argument

Geht so.

Kam ich gar nicht rein in den Gesangs Stil

## In-Depth Review of *Brutal Youth* by Elvis Costello Elvis Costello's *Brutal Youth*, released in 1994, marks a significant moment in his discography as it reunites him with his original band, The Attractions, after nearly a decade apart. This album is often viewed as a return to form for Costello, capturing the essence of his earlier work while exploring new thematic and musical territories. This review will delve into the lyrics, music, production, themes, and influence of *Brutal Youth*, along with its pros and cons. ### Lyrics The lyrics of *Brutal Youth* reflect Costello's characteristic wit and insight. Many songs grapple with themes of infidelity, betrayal, and the complexities of personal relationships. Notably, the track "Kinder Murder" employs vivid imagery and sharp wordplay to explore darker aspects of love and violence. The lyrics are marked by a cinematic quality, where Costello paints scenes that evoke strong emotional responses. Costello himself noted that while he did not set out with a specific theme in mind, many songs inadvertently addressed infidelity and personal disillusionment. This duality—personal relationships intertwined with broader societal issues—creates a rich tapestry of meaning throughout the album. For instance, in "13 Steps Lead Down," he juxtaposes personal despair with societal critique, showcasing his ability to merge the intimate with the political. ### Music Musically, *Brutal Youth* is an eclectic mix that showcases Costello's versatility as an artist. The album features a blend of rock, pop, and new wave elements, characterized by tight arrangements and dynamic instrumentation. The reunion with The Attractions brings a renewed energy to the album; their trademark sound—marked by Bruce Thomas's punchy bass lines and Steve Nieve's keyboard flourishes—provides a solid foundation for Costello's incisive melodies. Tracks like "Clubland" exemplify this synergy, combining catchy hooks with cynical lyrics about nightlife and superficiality. The song's upbeat tempo contrasts sharply with its darker lyrical themes, a hallmark of Costello's songwriting style. Other tracks such as "All the Rage" and "This Is Hell" feature driving rhythms and layered instrumentation that create an immersive listening experience. ### Production The production of *Brutal Youth* plays a crucial role in its overall impact. Produced by Nick Lowe and featuring contributions from various musicians, the album strikes a balance between polished sound and raw energy. The recording sessions were reportedly chaotic yet productive; Costello himself described them as "barely coherent ramblings" shaped into cohesive songs through relentless reworking. The mix captures the essence of live performance while allowing for studio enhancements that elevate certain tracks. For example, "You Tripped at Every Step" features lush string arrangements that complement its poignant lyrics without overshadowing them. This careful attention to detail ensures that each song feels distinct while maintaining a cohesive sound throughout the album. ### Themes Thematically, *Brutal Youth* explores several interconnected ideas: - **Infidelity**: Many songs reflect on betrayal in personal relationships, often blurring the lines between romantic and platonic connections. - **Disillusionment**: A sense of weariness permeates the album, reflecting Costello's experiences on the road and his struggles with fame. - **Societal Critique**: Costello frequently addresses broader social issues through personal narratives, using his experiences as a lens to examine larger cultural phenomena. - **Nostalgia vs. Reality**: There is an ongoing tension between idealized memories and harsh realities in relationships and society at large. These themes resonate throughout the album, creating a rich narrative that invites listeners to engage deeply with both the lyrics and music. ### Influence *Brutal Youth* has had a lasting impact on both fans and critics alike. It is often seen as a pivotal moment in Costello's career—a successful attempt to reconnect with his roots while simultaneously pushing forward into new territory. The album has influenced subsequent generations of musicians who admire Costello's lyrical prowess and genre-blending approach. Critics have noted that *Brutal Youth* encapsulates the spirit of 1990s rock while also harkening back to the punk-infused energy of Costello's earlier work. Its exploration of complex themes through accessible music has made it a reference point for artists seeking to balance commercial appeal with artistic integrity. ### Pros and Cons **Pros:** - **Lyrical Depth**: The album showcases Costello’s sharp wit and ability to weave intricate narratives. - **Musical Variety**: A diverse range of styles keeps the listening experience fresh and engaging. - **Strong Performances**: The reunion with The Attractions revitalizes the band’s sound, delivering tight performances throughout. - **Production Quality**: High-quality production enhances both the clarity of the instruments and the emotional weight of the lyrics. **Cons:** - **Inconsistent Tracks**: While many songs shine, some tracks may feel less impactful or memorable compared to others. - **Chaotic Recording Process**: The tumultuous nature of the recording sessions may have led to unevenness in some tracks. - **Mixed Reception**: Despite its strengths, some critics felt that it did not fully capture the magic of earlier albums like *This Year’s Model* or *Imperial Bedroom*. ### Conclusion In summary, *Brutal Youth* stands as a testament to Elvis Costello's enduring talent as a songwriter and musician. With its intricate lyrics, varied musical styles, and thoughtful production, it captures both personal struggles and societal critiques in a way that resonates deeply with listeners. While it may not be without its flaws—some tracks lacking the punch of others—the album ultimately succeeds in presenting a compelling narrative that reflects both nostalgia and contemporary realities. Costello's ability to blend these elements into a cohesive work makes *Brutal Youth* an essential part of his discography and an important entry in 1990s rock music history.

Costello number six. This only cements my feelings toward him and his music: he's made a couple brilliant albums at the start of his career that highlights his sharp songwriting, and everything else that follows is more or less for people who really really like his stuff. I can't really think of a reason to recommend his catalogue after his work in the '70s. I dunno man, it's not bad! How many of these do we need on the list though? Did we get the point across?

He can certainly write a catchy tune and it is well produced with great backing but and its a big but... his vocals do not really work for me. With the right voice this could be a 5 as I think the tunes are great - unfortunately I'm probably a high 3.

I can't say I've ever listened to Elvis Costello... He doesn't have a great voice. I hate how much of a theme it is in like punk and alt music to just be a shitty singer. Honestly these songs aren't that bad, but they're just pretty bland, if he was a better singer I think I'd like some of them quite a bit. God this album is so fucking long too. AWESOME. I was just looking on SputnikMusic and this isn't even like top 10 of Elvis Costello albums... why tf is this on here?

Worth it just for "Sulky Girl".

It’s a good album. He’s a great storyteller. I didn’t love the songs though. I liked the stories.

One of EC's pop-rock records. I kind of lost touch with Elvis in the 90s but Brutal Youth follows in the line from his 80s classics to his 21st century return to loud music with When I Was Cruel. Brutal Youth is a good record but is it something you MUST hear? I'm not sure.

# 377 : I don't love it, I don't hate it. I thought it was very ordinary and Quiet forgettable.

Listened to the first couple of songs, its fine but not really grabbing me, might be the late night listening hour

Don't know what it is about Mr Costello. His well known tracks are brilliant, but listening to a whole album is really shit. It's hard to believe it's the same artist (except for his voice, noone else could have a voice like that). Sorry, but it's only a 1.

No. I really tried, honestly. But just can’t find any joy or inspiration from this man’s music.

Another Costello album? Am I missing something? I thought 'Rocking Horse Road' was the standout track, the rest? I just found quite bland, maybe if I listened to him more I'd probably get him, but I don't in both cases. I would have to file this under; R Whites Lemonade or Easy Listening. Still, it's 100% better than his debut and the score reflects this.

I like Elvis Costello but this one is a little 🥱 😴

Elvis reconnects with the Attractions and drops another banger!

This genuinely had no reason at ALL to be an hour. Full of the worst vocals you've ever heard and the worst, most random background music going on. Really really hard to listen to. This does not deserve its spot on the list. Fav Songs: This is Hell (don't you love it when a song describes the album)

Amused to see so much hate for this in the reviews. I suppose if you can't get on with the voice then you can't get on with the voice. For me, Elvis is at his best when he's effortlessly churning out workman-like pop, such as Just About Glad and Tripped at Every Step. There are a few fillers but it's a great album

Really sparse production that’s nice for one song but didn’t really appreciate a whole album. Might revisit if/when in the mood but it ultimately feels like a schtick

Not a lot that standed out in this one

Elvis Costello never sounds like he knows where the song is going, and ad libs both lyrics and melody in order to make something that is totally unique to him, because no one else would ever think to go in the directions that he takes songs. Sometimes, this thought process works out, and even though I'm not a fan of his music, I can at least see the effort behind it. This album, though? Utter incompetence, like watching a dementia-ridden patient try and recover some semblance of music creation in a genre he arguably helped start, all while his audience just sits there and seem to spout variations of "you can do it, buddy!" despite their knowledge of its subpar at best presentation. Every song here is sloppy, annoying, and even struggles to be a vague idea of catchy. There's so little going on, and yet every time Costello opens his mouth it just sounds like someone purposefully singing with the worst voice possible to annoy their friends, and with each subsequent track it just digs into you more and more. Perhaps there is a track or two that is "better" as the album goes on, but clocking in at nearly an hour, you start to stop caring about ten minutes in, which just leads to every single track past that timestamp being torture. I listened to this album less than twenty-four hours ago, yet I could not tell you anything about any of the tracks save for "boring and annoying," and that really stings when you're subjected to just that for longer than what should ever be necessary. Lyrically it isn't much better, with nonsensical lyrics trying to be deep for the sake of sounding smart plaguing the whole thing, and only relax on the more stereotypical love songs, which are still, say it with me, boring and annoying! God, its just obvious that this is an album where a singer has completely lost his touch, and with no band to support him positively musically, and no Nick Lowe to produce, the cracks of Elvis Costello really start to show. Perhaps not one of the worst albums of all time, but one I immediately despise.

It was awfully nice of Elvis Costello to have written my review for me, in the form of the chorus to track 4: This is hell, this is hell I am sorry to tell you It never gets better or worse

Great album

As usual I liked Elvis Costello less than I think I should, he just fades into the background. I don't think I noticed a single song but it was pleasant enough.

The Master. All that is good about music.

I liked a few of the tracks, but I thought this album was a little bloated. When Elvis Costello goes full crooner, it’s just a bit much for me, but I have to give him credit for the craftsmanship of his songs.

Rock alternativo. Un tanto rollo. Ni fu ni fa.

Bonito. Elvis Costello. Un poco pesado al final. Más corto, mejor, como me pasa siempre con Elvis Costello.

Ok songs but I don’t like his voice

Jesus, I still have one more Elvis Costello album to listen to?! I bet I could name 1001 artists who deserve an album on this list but didn't get one because we just HAD to have 8 billion shitty Costello albums on the list.

Great album its everything an 80s album should be. Elvis captured the essence of the decade and simply is a staple of the 80s. All his albums are alike but they are awesome so this one is in the top

6/10… power pop / modern rock

Not my typical genre of music but there is no denying the songwriting genius of Elvis Costello. Each of the songs is still an enjoyable listen and the vocal and instrumental performances are top notch.

There are a lot of Elvis Costello albums on this list, and several probably belong here. This one, though, I just can’t make a case for. It’s inconsistent, uninteresting, and not particularly well executed.

Never heard it before and if I'm lucky won't hear it again. How on earth does Elvis Costello have six albums on this list? What a chore to listen to all 15 tracks (no I didn't bother with the additional tracks added for the remaster/cash grab version). There's nothing relevant here. Just a guy who likes chord changes noodling away in his studio making boring music.

I struggled with this album. Not bad, but nothing really noteworthy.

I really enjoyed Armed Forces and This Year's Girl. This album didn't move me through. I think he needs a faster tempo or something more punk like to move this one along. 2.5 rounded up.

This album felt more melodic and less punchy than some of the others. No standouts, but not as tough to get through. Explored some interesting topical elements. I feel like this whole 1001 albums thing is just a ploy to make us listen to the curator's favorite artist.

Liked this more than the previous Costello album we got, but still not a huge fan

I’m over Elvis Costello for a while. Too many albums in this for him

Just fine, nothing I need to come back to

Sounded fine but elvis Costello doesn’t really move the needle for me

I knew the name of Elvis Costello but had no idea what to expect. This is kinda punk rock? I thought he did 70s lounge music! What a surprise. I like his voice, but then I grew up on emo music so a sneer doesn't bother me. HOWEVER, some of these lyrics hit wrong. "She should have kept her legs closed" - yikes. Also him referencing "ugly drug music" in 13 Steps Lead Down - sounds a bit like a slam again 90s hip hop? I'd like to think it is mocking outdated ideas, but I afraid its actually upholding them. Also, the more into this album I go the less punk it gets and the more lounge music like I feared.

Would definitely visit again; British pop keep becoming more interesting

Dudes who wear trilbies have tricked themselves into thinking that Elvis Costello is essential and ground-breaking because he also likes a fancy hat. Post-punk for people who are afraid of loud noises.

“This is hell / I am sorry to tell you / It never gets better or worse” Terrible voice and just bland

This sounds like every other Elvis Costello album. Mostly mediocre with one or two good songs on it. This one doesn't seem to have as many bad songs as usual though.

I ended up listening to this one twice. My wife is an Elvis Costello fan, but didn't know this record so wanted to listen to it after I did. It didn't do much for me the first time, but really started to grow on me the second listen. The songs weren't super catchy the first time through, but I found myself really enjoying them more with repeated listening. I guess I'm saying this one will grow on you. Especially if you already like Elvis Costello.

Didn't finish. The vocals are outright painful to listen to.

Absolutely horrendous producing. Annoying voice. Change that and you get a "decent" album. Also, who the hell labeled this as pop punk or punk rock?

2nd Elvis at 404

Pretty decent effort from EC

I really liked it.

bad

Pleasantly surprised by the his one

Doesn’t strike me as his best. This is Hell has always been a favourite for me though.

Yeah, had decent hopes going into this when I realized I've never actually listened to any of his stuff. Now I'm thankful I made it this far. It's just bland and unengaging.

I like Elvis Costello, but this was just okay for me.

One of my all time favourite Elvis Costello albums. Was great to revisit this one this morning. Love the melodies, and I love the oftentimes softer touch on some of these tracks.

I don't get why so many people hate this album. To be fair this is my first Elvis Costello album on the list but it's pretty good. Everything sounds great and it's better than a lot of album I've heard on this list. It's not a 5 but a solid 4.

Not my personal cup of tea at all. Found his voice to be extremely grating

So preposterously corny

Sigh. He is terrible. His voice grates. This is my second Costello album on this list, and as the track says, This is Hell. 1

No ha estado mal, de lo mejor de Elvis Costello que he escuchado por aquí, aunque solo me he guardado Pony St. aún así le voy a dar 3 estrellas.

I think the song “this is hell” is actually self referential because this album is awful and never gets any better

Much like the Neil Young on this list, there is a surprising volume of Elvis Costello, it can vary from quiet to loud, the song writing is always excellent, the voice can divide opinion and if you get it you love it, but it can equally piss people off. This doesnt deviate from the above. I wouldn't be a fanboy, but ive heard enough to appreciate it without falling in love.

01) Pony St. - 6,5 02) Kinder Murder - 6,5 03) 13 Steps Lead Down - 6,5 04) This Is Hell - 6,5 05) Clown Strike - 6,0 06) You Tripped at Every Step - 6,5 07) Still Too Soon to Know - 6,5 08) 20% Amnesia - 6,0 09) Sulky Girl - 6,5 10) London's Brilliant Parade - 6,0 11) My Science Fiction Twin - 6,0 12) Rocking Horse Road - 6,0 13) Just About Glad - 5,5 14) All the Rage - 5,5 15) Favourite Hour - 5,5 TOTAL: 6,13 (61/100) Current ranking: 269/330

Brutal Youth is Elvis Costello trying too hard to stay relevant and/or muscle in on the 90s' changing sounds. It's standard average easy listening from him, always falls between a 2 and a 3, this one isn't as good as some of the others we've had (entirely too many) and it's too long so it slips into the (high) 2. Six albums btw. Six.

I liked this, in places, more than I hvae done most of the stuff we've had from him. He's lyrically a bit too earnest and on the nose most of the time, but it works every now and then. There's a fun energy to it, I liked London's Brilliant Parade best, 3/5.

Not for me. This has a generic 90's sound, it did not do anything for me.

It was just OK. Elvis Costello has a bit of an expiration date for me and it was well before 1994. I do like his compositions and musical blending of jazz and pop.

One of the more three star experiences of my life. He's a very competent and serviceable singer and songwriter, but I'm yet to hear anything from him that really moves me particularly.

Not a fan of his voice.

Once again, a Costello album which sounds like any other Costello album

I just don’t like Elvis Costello

2.5 I don’t like Costello’s voice. There were a few tracks on this record that reminded me a lot of TMBG’s music from the same time. Favorite Track: 20% Amnesia

From 1:19 to 1:22 and 3:07 to 3:10 on 'Sulky Girl' there is a great guitar sound that is not revisited until the second-to-last song 'All the Rage'. That is everything positive I have to say about Brutal Youth, the fourth(!) record by Elvis Costello on this list so far. I disagree with basically every melodic choice made on the album. Every track, with the exception of 'All the Rage', is too fast to be a ballad or too slow to have any lasting power. And Costello's vocals are at their worst here, especially when he decides to force an unsettling vibrato. AND it's way too long.

Another day, another Elvis Costello album. I wake up at least once a week and wonders what it must have cost him to get this many albums included. Brutal Youth is number 4 so far. There are a few decent tracks on here, but most of them are either boring or just horribly written. But that's not the worst part.... No, no, no. *sigh* The worst part is knowing, that there's a few more of his albums waiting for me.

Elvis Costello has tons of great albums under his belt. This one is one of his best and a signature sound.

Please, let this be the last Costello album

There's a song on this album called 'This is Hell' which repeats the lyric 'this is hell' countless times. I have to say that I agree.

I still don’t know who his target audience is. He’s not rock, not jazz, and his lyrics aren’t all that inspired.