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Elvis Costello's follow-up to the magical Imperial Bedroom is both a delight and a let-down. True, Punch the Clock is a well-recorded, soulful romp, but it's definitely not one of Elvis' major works. My expectations are much higher for people who make ethnic remarks about Ray Charles.
No need to worry, though, rock's most talented wimp is probably just taking a breather with this product and will hopefully do better next go around. In the meantime, Costello fanatics can console themselves with the new LP's few genuine moments of genius, the most notable being "The Greatest Thing," and "Everyday I Write the Book." Both are incredible pop songs that deserve smash-hit-single status. Other highlights include "The Element Within Her," "Pills and Soap," and the eerie "Love Went Mad." Costello's band, The Attractions, deserves mention, too. Unlike Costello, they've never been better.
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