Much publicity surrounded the release of this album. Costello is a veteran of the English pub scene, his voice is reminiscent of another pub rocker, Graham Parker, but his style harkens back to the day of another Elvis.
The album contains 13 songs, with none more than three minutes long. This produces a continuum of high energy music — in fact, the album never slows down! How refreshing to hear such music from a debut artist.
Outstanding cuts on the disc include "Mystery Dance," a song that owes its form to The King. "I'm Not Angry" is real rock and roll at its best. The tune shows off Costello's proficiency on the guitar — which is nothing to be squawked about. "Welcome to the Working Week" (1:32) is a short and sweet tune, and "Watchin the Detectives" is a reggae tune.
The whole lp is strong. While one certainly needs to acquire a taste for the pub scene, if ya like rock 'n' roll, Costello belongs in your collection.
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