As you're doing the Jerk out on the dance floor at "Clubland," Costello sings to you all about the other wild and crazy things that are happening there.
"Clubland," that first song on Costello's brand new album, features some great piano runs and a Ventures-type vibrato ending. It's a short, compact tune that explodes with energy. And that is par for the course with Costello.
His last two albums have featured 20 songs each. Although this one has only 14 songs, they continue in the same format brief, no-nonsense, 1960s-styled pop tunes.
Costello also continues with his razor-sharp wit. Such phrases as "you need protection from the physical part of conversation" and "it doesn't matter if the face doesn't fit" are among many barbs Costello loves to throw.
This is a fine feast of pop tunes, with the crown jewel being "Shot With His Own Gun."
Much credit is due Nick Lowe, the album's producer. His genius is fitting Costello's frequent use of 1960s styles into a 1981 package.
Ah yes, the fit is excellent.
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