Comments for Costello, Elvis, Brutal Youth

"Brutal Youth", Costello's finest album since his 1982 masterpiece "Imperial Bedroom", and his first since 1986's "Blood And Chocolate" to feature his backing group the Attractions, is a throwback to the days of "Armed Forces" and "Trust". While not a perfect album, every track is worth listening to, and the closing number, "Favourite Hour", is possibly the most tender song Costello has written. Highly recommended.

'Brutal youth' is a return to the style of his earlier records, and it's less produced (and arranged) than his previous efforts (Spike, Mighty Like A Rose). All the 15 songs are excellent, and 'Sulky Girl' and 'Favourite Hour' is among his best ever. Great melodies. This may be the best rock record so far in the 90's.

This is a Costello album that sneaks up on you. At first, I thought it was merely a serviceable outing, but much later I found myself humming the tunes and listening to it constantly. It ages much better than most albums and has moved into my top three Costello albums. (After Imperial Bedroom, and TYM)

Features the Attractions (Pete Thomas, Bruce Thomas,Steve Nieve, and Nick Lowe), although they aren`tcreditted as such.Produced by Mitchell Froom and Elvis Costello