This album came out in 1977. This was an interesting time for me musically as we were in the heyday of disco & punk with an emerging New Wave. The heavy rock of the late ’60’s and early ’70’s was still there, but more in the background, perhaps a bit exhausted from its time in the limelight.
I absolutely hated disco (as I’ve stated elsewhere) and the emergence of punk was a great relief. There was also something else emerging that would become known as New Wave. Punk was straight forward & political, showing its garage rock roots. New Wave was more melodic, arty & poppier than hard rock. Lyrics could be smart and political, but also just fun.
Elvis Costello was in the vanguard of this movement. The music & the lyrics are smart, well crafted, well executed and stand the test of time. The themes he addresses still persist 40 years later, some to our dismay (such as neo-Fascism). As one of the earliest, most complete albums of the new era of music, I believe this is a must-have for any music lover. It also has one of my favourite lyrics ever (“She’s filing her nails while they’re dragging the lake.”) from “Watching the Detectives”. How can you resist that?
Yes! Love Elvis Costello!
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Do something about the The Monks “Bad Habits” that. was the best band ever!!!! I LOVE the Monks! “Suspended Animation” is .. okay. Better than most! I want you to tell the world what you think of the Monks! I love Elvis Costello a lot, as well.