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Back in 1977 Elvis Costello released his debut album entitled My Aim Is True. I immediately became a fan, but realized that he would have to do an even more outstanding job on his second release in order to please the critics and sell albums.
In the year-round polls Elvis was voted very high on the list of the best new artists. He also received many top positions in the polls with This Year's Model (1978). Well, he did it again late in 1978 with his recent Armed Forces.
None of the songs songs get monotonous being that they average about three minutes long. The drummer keeps a good beat going (better than any disco beat!!!), and the musicians blend in to produce fine rhythmic sounds. Nick Lowe, solo artist and a member of Dave Edmunds' Rockpile, produced this longplayer. This is one definite reason for its success. The main reason his albums sell so rapidly and disc jockeys give Elvis Costello so much airplay is his unadulterated talent. The Attractions, and they are three in number, also possess the quality of that will take them far in the world of music. Peter Thomas is the bassist, the organist is Steve Naive, and the drummer's first name is Bruce. (I could not find his last name anywhere!)
In a one word description, Armed Forces is excellent. My favorite cut on the album is "(What's So Funny "Bout) Peace, Love and Understanding." The lyrics are fantastic and the music is even better. Other cuts I suggest you to check out are "Accidents Will Happen," "Party Girl," and "Goon Squad."
"Party Girl" is a realty different kind of love song. In "Goon Squad" Elvis tells his parents that he can't come home because they have put him in the goon squad. His ideas are so original that I don't think he is sane.
It has been said that Elvis has a lot of 1950's style in his music. If you hear "Oliver's Army" you will understand why. He combines the quaint familiarity of good old time rock and roll with the unusuality of the music being produced today.
Elvis Costello is the utmost in new wave rockers. He is far too cool to be considered an ordinary punk, and too unique to be just another London-born musician. He has an icy stare that leaves an awesome effect. His voice screams with anger, reality and boredom, but it can also speak of love.
With a fine mixture of rock and roll in a high degree, clever lyrics sung in ah overpowering fashion, and a lot of luck, Elvis has reached success. I don't know about you, but next time he plays nearby, or maybe even not so nearby, I will be a member of that audience.
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