The Witching Hour Sessions – 11/01/2018
Elvis Costello
Born in 1955, Elvis Costello’s first record ‘My Aim Is True’ (1977) linked him to the punk and new wave movement. However, he borrowed from country, pop, Reggae, and many other musical genres. His eclecticism and literate lyrics have always distinguished Costello’s records and made him one of the best songwriters since Dylan.
He has released a huge body of work over a 40 year career so my 3 choices tonight barely touch the surface of his output and it is all from his early catalogue. I would be more than welcome to hear your further listening recommendations on this thread.
Tonight’s listening;
1 – My Aim Is True (1977)
Costello’s debut album and a pop landmark. One of the greatest first albums in pop history? Contains ‘Alison’ and ‘(The Angels Wanna Wear)’ My Red Shoes’. Enough said!
2 – This Year’s Model (1978)
The first album with the mighty Attractions as his backing band. Full of great songs ‘Pump It Up’, ‘(I Don’t Want To Go To)’ Chelsea and underpinned by Steve Nieve’s organ riffs and Costello’s mighty vocals. Have they ever rocked so hard since?
3 – Armed Forces (1979)
A more detailed production than the first 2 albums and this album shows Costello’s growing compositional talents. It’s a dense but accessible record and it’s his third masterpiece in a row. Again full of fine songs; ‘Accidents Will Happen’, ‘Two Little Hitlers’, ‘Goon Squad’ amongst an album full of them.