Every once and a while, a fan of music may run across some tunes that he or she thinks is "the greatest." It takes something special to do that to me personally - and certainly - I feel the timing must be right. I acquired Elvis Costello's debut album a few months ago; and upon first listen, I thought it was a great work. Though at the time, I didn't know it was that great.
In allmusic.com's five-star rating, S.T. Erlewine says My Aim Is True has a unique mass appeal, for it is "the most idiosyncratic of all classic punk debuts because it's not cathartic in sound, only spirit." True, at first it may seem too versatile, yet by the tenth time around Costello will trap you into his world whether you like it or not. His fast lyrical draw and wide range of melodies are contagious, and it is no wonder that so many listeners have become avid fans.
Nearly every form of music exists in the 13 tracks, but it doesn't jump around: it's a punk fusion that will spin your head and shake your limbs. There's down and dirty rock n'roll ("I'm Not Angry" "Blame It On Cain"); sounds of the 50's ("No Dancing" "Welcome To The Working Week"); vanilla reggae ("Watching The Detectives" "Less Than Zero"); classic, everyday tunes ("Alison" "Miracle Man"). This blend gives all thirteen songs fresh appeal - not to mention bleeding originality.
Heed my advice. This is an album to own and cherish. It's music you can feel in all five senses, with lyrics that are provocative to say the least ("Everything means less than zero"). The deluxe edition (1993) offers a bonus disc with Live tracks and "Honky Tonk Demos." In these songs, Costello is in rare form, playing songs that sound like tributes to some of his influences: Randy Newman, Van Morrison, and Gram Parsons (highlights include "Jump Up" & "Radio Sweetheart"). Enjoy...
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