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From the old, black hard-rims to the new wire-rims, Elvis Costello's choice of spectacles has ushered in a new mannerism. Costello has set his sights on a prospective comparable to that of our generation's philosophers. His thoughts are sharp and startling, his moods reflective yet disturbing. These elements were present in last year's masterpiece, Imperial Bedroom; from its opening echoes to the closing piano, Imperial Bedroom did everything but make the bed. The symphony backing Costello's lithe voice bent for every motion and emotion. This journey led us through empty corridors to the places where inner secrets are bottled. However, Costello had the keys to these chambers for us to explore, and the expedition was phenomenal. Imperial Bedroom had heart, soul, and the ability to stand as a statement.
For Costello, with the passing of one year, Imperial Bedroom stands as the nightmare to escape. Costello must pack the tools of his masterpiece into storage and journey to new mansions. What Costello has done is to endure, for he delivers an unexpected gem in Punch the Clock.
With the addition of the TKO horn section and female back-up vocals, Punch the Clock sparkles with originality. Costello sheds the previous production and comes up with an invigorating record.
Punch the Clock has many highlights, one of which, without a doubt, is Costello's band, The Attractions. A chief factor in the fabrication of this album, The Attractions prove to be versatile and enthusiastic. In "The Greatest Thing," while Costello delivers a fanatic narration on the institution of marriage, The Attractions blanket the song with a soft "wall of sound." Costello utters wisdon reflective of those
who have seen better times:
"Punch the clock and in time you'll get pulled apart
If you're married on paper and not in your heart
Since nights were long and days were olden
Woman to man has been beholden
But since then times have been changing
The changing times have also been reflected in Costello's political views. As the war in the Falklands raged on, Costello became a correspondent. His article, "Shipbuilding," relies heavily on irony:
"It's just a rumour that was spread around town
A telegram or a picture postcard
Within weeks they'll be re-opening the shipyard
And notifying the next of kin
Once again
Chet Baker provides an excellent trumpet solo that freezes the song together. Like these tracks, Costello weaves himself in and out of situations. With his ripened voice, he comically teases with "The Invisible Man," and confesses in "Mouth Almighty." Each track is an epic in the life of Costello.
Punch the Clock is a triumph. With its array of characters and settings, Costello is able to lead us on another voyage. At twenty-eight, he has mastered his art. The music and lyrics have never been tighter. Costello has experienced his share of fads and gimmicks, but these "hook-and-sinker" lyrics take him a step beyond. Punch the Clock is a testament to dedication. In one song, Costello poses the question, "Isn't this the greatest thing?" Answering his question would be difficult. However, it wouldn't be improper to say that what makes Punch the Clock a gem isn't the thrill of victory, but the survival of the fittest.
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