Some people make resolutions when a new year rolls around; others make "10-best" lists. Those of you who keep track of such things will note that this is the third time in four years that Elvis Costello has topped TP's honor roll. [Now will you give us an interview? Ed.] Half of our overachievers are no strangers to TP's Top 10, with Squeeze making the most dramatic gain in popularity. Of the others, U2, Go-Go's and Holly and the Italians unleashed impressive debuts; the dB's' long-awaited album delivered as their 45s promised; and hardy perennials the Dictators proved there's life in the Bronx yet. Drop-outs from last year include Talking Heads (missing in solo action), Rockpile (busy licking wounds), the English Beat, Gang of Four and Public Image Ltd.
1. Elvis Costello, Trust — A confident show of force from Mr. Reliable before plunging into Nashville terra incognita.
2. U2, Boy — Raw, quivering messages from the heart. Defiant expressionism at a time we could use it.
3. (tie) The Clash, Sandinista! — Overblown, overambitious and only this bunch could pull it off. Still the only band that matters?
3. (tie) Go-Go's, Beauty and the Beat — Refreshing dose of pop insouciance. Also the new wave chart invaders of the year.
5. Squeeze, East Side Story — Craftsmanship needn't be dull. Someday their songs will get the recognition they deserve; don't wait.
6. Holly And The Italians, The Right to Be Italian —
More polished than the Go-Go's, but just as breezy and tuneful. (Subscribers: Play flexi-disc for details.)
7. The Pretenders, II — Derivative? Sure! But Chrissie Hynde can still charm your pants off (sic) when she wants.
8. (tie) The dB's, Stands for DeciBels — Thanks to an amazing time-warp, this band is with us right now—and almost singlehandedly saving power pop's reputation.
8. (tie) The Undertones, Positive Touch — Derry's finest grow up without growing Old. Refined yet rocking, and true to its title.
10. Dictators, Fuck 'Em if They Can't Take a Joke — Our first cassette-only selection. Rock will never die as long as bands like this are around to give it a swift kick in the pants.
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