Album Info
| Artist: | Elvis Costello |
| Album: | This Year's Model |
| Released: | UK, Europe & US, 30 Oct 2015 |
Tracklist:
| A1 | No Action | 1:57 |
| A2 | This Year's Girl | 3:16 |
| A3 | The Beat | 3:42 |
| A4 | Pump It Up | 3:12 |
| A5 | Little Triggers | 2:38 |
| A6 | You Belong To Me | 2:19 |
| B1 | Hand In Hand | 2:30 |
| B2 | (I Don't Want To Go To) Chelsea | 3:06 |
| B3 | Lip Service | 2:34 |
| B4 | Living In Paradise | 3:51 |
| B5 | Lipstick Vogue | 3:29 |
| B6 | Night Rally | 2:40 |
| B7 | Radio, Radio | 3:05 |
Info About Buying Vinyl From Our Record Store
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- Happy Listening!
Description
Elvis Costello's "This Year's Model," released in 1978, stands as a seminal work in the artist's discography and a landmark in the new wave genre. This album, his second studio effort, was the first to feature his backing band, The Attractions, which included Steve Nieve on keyboards, Bruce Thomas on bass, and Pete Thomas on drums. The collaboration with The Attractions brought a tighter, more aggressive sound compared to his debut album, "My Aim Is True."
Produced by Nick Lowe, "This Year's Model" is often celebrated for its raw energy and biting lyrics. The album opens with "No Action," a track that immediately sets the tone with its frenetic pace and Costello's urgent vocal delivery. The song's brevity and intensity are a perfect introduction to the album's overall aesthetic.
One of the standout tracks, "Pump It Up," features a driving bassline and a catchy, repetitive keyboard riff that has become one of Costello's signature sounds. The song's lyrics, filled with sexual tension and frustration, are delivered with a sneering attitude that perfectly complements the music's relentless energy.
Another notable track is "Radio, Radio," which was added to the U.S. version of the album. This song is a scathing critique of the music industry's commercialization and the control that radio stations have over what gets played. The song's rebellious spirit is encapsulated in its famous live performance on "Saturday Night Live," where Costello and The Attractions defied the show's producers by playing "Radio, Radio" instead of the scheduled song.
"Little Triggers" slows down the pace slightly, offering a more melodic and introspective side of Costello. The song's lush arrangement and heartfelt lyrics provide a contrast to the more aggressive tracks on the album, showcasing Costello's versatility as a songwriter.
"Lipstick Vogue" is another high-energy track that features intricate drumming by Pete Thomas and a pulsating bassline by Bruce Thomas. The song's lyrics, which deal with themes of superficiality and disillusionment, are delivered with Costello's characteristic wit and cynicism.
The album's closer, "Night Rally," is a politically charged song that addresses the rise of fascism and the dangers of political apathy. Its ominous tone and stark lyrics leave a lasting impression, making it a powerful end to the album.
"This Year's Model" was both a critical and commercial success, reaching No. 4 on the UK Albums Chart and No. 30 on the Billboard 200 in the United States. The album's influence can be seen in the work of many subsequent artists in the new wave and punk rock genres.
In terms of production, Nick Lowe's work on the album is often praised for its clarity and punch. The decision to record with The Attractions gave the album a cohesive sound that was both polished and raw, capturing the energy of Costello's live performances.
The album's cover art, designed by Barney Bubbles, is also iconic. It features a photograph of Costello behind a camera, with the image slightly out of focus and the text misaligned, giving it a sense of urgency and imperfection that mirrors the music within.
In conclusion, "This Year's Model" is a masterful album that showcases Elvis Costello's sharp songwriting, The Attractions' tight musicianship, and Nick Lowe's adept production. Its blend of punk energy, new wave sensibilities, and incisive lyrics make it a timeless classic that continues to resonate with listeners today.
