Album Info
| Artist: | Elvis Costello & The Attractions |
| Album: | Almost Blue |
| Released: | Europe, 30 Oct 2015 |
Tracklist:
| A1 | Why Don't You Love Me (Like You Used To Do) | |
| Written-By - Williams | ||
| A2 | Sweet Dreams | |
| Written-By - Gibson | ||
| A3 | Success | |
| Written-By - Mullins | ||
| A4 | I'm Your Toy | |
| Written-By - Ethridge, Parsons | ||
| A5 | Tonight The Bottle Let Me Down | |
| Written-By - Haggard | ||
| A6 | Brown To Blue | |
| Written-By - Mathis, Jones, Frank | ||
| B1 | Good Year For The Roses | |
| Written-By - Chesnut | ||
| B2 | Sittin' And Thinkin' | |
| Written-By - Rich | ||
| B3 | Colour Of The Blues | |
| Written-By - Jones, Williams | ||
| B4 | Too Far Gone | |
| Written-By - Sherrill | ||
| B5 | Honey Hush | |
| Written-By - Turner | ||
| B6 | How Much I've Lied | |
| Written-By - Parsons, Rifkin |
Info About Buying Vinyl From Our Record Store
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Description
Elvis Costello's 1981 album "Almost Blue" marked a significant departure from his earlier work, showcasing his versatility and deep appreciation for country music. Known for his sharp lyricism and new wave sensibilities, Costello took a bold step by dedicating an entire album to covers of classic country songs, a move that surprised many fans and critics at the time. The album, recorded with his band The Attractions and produced by the legendary Billy Sherrill, is a heartfelt homage to the genre and its icons.
"Almost Blue" features Costello's interpretations of songs by country greats such as George Jones, Gram Parsons, and Hank Williams. The album opens with "Why Don't You Love Me (Like You Used to Do?)", a lively rendition of Hank Williams' classic, setting the tone for the record's exploration of heartbreak and longing. Costello's voice, known for its emotive quality, brings a unique edge to these songs, blending his distinctive style with the traditional country sound.
One of the standout tracks is "Good Year for the Roses", originally by George Jones. Costello's version captures the melancholy and resignation of the song, and it became a hit in the UK, reaching the top 10 on the charts. His delivery is sincere and poignant, demonstrating his ability to convey deep emotion through his performances. Another highlight is "Sweet Dreams", a song associated with Patsy Cline, where Costello's interpretation pays respectful tribute while adding his own touch.
The production by Billy Sherrill, a key figure in the Nashville sound, adds authenticity to the album. Sherrill's expertise in crafting lush, emotive arrangements complements Costello's vocal delivery and The Attractions' musicianship. The collaboration between Costello and Sherrill was an inspired choice, bridging the gap between Costello's British new wave background and the American country tradition.
"Almost Blue" received mixed reviews upon its release, with some critics questioning Costello's foray into country music. However, over time, the album has been re-evaluated and appreciated for its sincerity and the risks Costello took as an artist. It stands as a testament to his willingness to explore new musical territories and his respect for the genres that influenced him.
For fans of Elvis Costello, "Almost Blue" offers a fascinating glimpse into his musical influences and his ability to reinterpret classic songs with authenticity and passion. It's a record that rewards repeated listens, revealing the depth of Costello's artistry and his connection to the material. Whether you're a country music aficionado or a fan of Costello's broader discography, "Almost Blue" is a compelling and heartfelt album that deserves attention.
