Elvis Costello. His music sounds like his look. A bit unassuming, with a quirky style and slight eccentricity. This Year's Model is his second album with The Attractions backing him up, a 1978 release that has been critically acclaimed. As usual, my first few listens to this album didn't really sit well with me, but as I listened to it more and more I realized that this album still has a current sound. For a 1978 release, its incredibly contemporary. Its got an intentional sound that is precise, skilled, and really makes me appreciate the talent of Costello and his crew. And yes, with songs like "Pump It Up" and the rock-organ that underscores much of the track, you can easily place the music in the late 70s, early 80s. It captures some of the wild, loose sounds of the psychedelic era and refines it into a sound that is equally expressive but almost sounds more controlled. What sticks out to me more than anything else on this album is the sex-charged undertones. But I suppose with an album title like This Year's Model, what should I expect, right? It just amazes me because beneath the upbeat, light, jazz-pop sounds, there are lyrics like "I don't want to be a lover / I just want to be a victim" (from "The Beat"). I mean come on, Mr. Costello! But I guess that's part of what adds to his music, in particular this album. Its charged with passion that's exciting to experience, whether you listen to the lyrics or not. The more I listen to this album, the more I appreciate it. It might actually become part of my regular listening repertoire, that's how much I'm enjoying it right now. Really cool to listen to some of his earlier music. Track Listing Side One

1. No Action
2. This Year's Girl
3. The Beat
4. Pump It Up
5. Little Triggers
6. You Belong To Me

Side Two

1. Hand In Hand
2. Lip Service
3. Living In Paradise
4. Lipstick Vogue
5. Night Rally