Album Info
| Artist: | Elvis Costello And The Attractions |
| Album: | Punch The Clock |
| Released: | Europe, 30 Oct 2015 |
Tracklist:
| A1 | Let Them All Talk | |
| A2 | Everyday I Write The Book | |
| A3 | The Greatest Thing | |
| A4 | The Element Within Her | |
| A5 | Love Went Mad | |
| A6 | Shipbuilding | |
| trumpet [Solo] - Chet Baker | ||
| B1 | TKO (Boxing Day) | |
| B2 | Charm School | |
| B3 | The Invisible Man | |
| B4 | Mouth Almighty | |
| B5 | King Of Thieves | |
| B6 | Pills And Soap | |
| B7 | The World And His Wife | |
| trumpet, Flugelhorn - Stuart Robson |
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Description
"Punch the Clock", released in 1983, is a fascinating entry in Elvis Costello's discography. By this point, Costello and his band, The Attractions, had already established themselves as a force to be reckoned with in the new wave and post-punk scenes. However, this album saw them taking a slightly different approach, incorporating a more polished, pop-oriented sound while still retaining the sharp wit and lyrical depth that Costello is known for.
One of the most notable aspects of "Punch the Clock" is its production. Produced by Clive Langer and Alan Winstanley, who were known for their work with bands like Madness, the album has a bright, brassy sound that sets it apart from Costello's earlier, more raw recordings. The addition of a horn section, The TKO Horns, adds a layer of sophistication and energy to the tracks, giving the album a unique character within Costello's body of work.
The album opens with "Let Them All Talk", a lively track that immediately sets the tone with its upbeat tempo and infectious horn arrangements. This is followed by "Everyday I Write the Book", one of Costello's most enduring hits. The song's clever lyrics, which compare a relationship to the process of writing a book, are paired with a catchy melody and a polished production that helped it become a commercial success. It's a perfect example of how Costello was able to balance accessibility with his trademark intelligence and wit.
Another standout track is "Shipbuilding", a poignant ballad that addresses the impact of the Falklands War on working-class communities. The song features a hauntingly beautiful trumpet solo by jazz legend Chet Baker, which adds an emotional depth that perfectly complements Costello's heartfelt lyrics. "Shipbuilding" is often regarded as one of Costello's finest compositions, and it's easy to see why.
Throughout the album, Costello's lyrics are as sharp and insightful as ever. Whether he's exploring themes of love, politics, or social issues, his words are always thought-provoking and delivered with a sense of urgency that keeps the listener engaged. The Attractions, as always, provide stellar support, with Steve Nieve's keyboards, Bruce Thomas's bass, and Pete Thomas's drums creating a dynamic and versatile backdrop for Costello's vocals.
While "Punch the Clock" may not have the raw edge of Costello's earlier albums like "This Year's Model" or "Armed Forces", it showcases his ability to evolve as an artist and experiment with new sounds. The album's polished production and pop sensibilities may not appeal to everyone, but there's no denying the quality of the songwriting and performances.
In retrospect, "Punch the Clock" stands as a testament to Elvis Costello's versatility and willingness to take risks. It's an album that rewards repeated listens, revealing new layers and nuances with each spin. Whether you're a longtime fan or new to Costello's music, "Punch the Clock" is well worth exploring.
