Costello mixes 1950s-style rock n roll with the dirty production sound, angst and sneer of punk. In some ways he was anticipating the 1980s’ fondness for all things 50s (back to the future, cry-baby, nu-greasers, plus all of those people who really just wanted a return to the 'golden years' when they could be racist and sexist with impunity (MAGA)).
According to the book, he had not recruited his band 'the Attractions' for these sessions. He recorded the album over six 4-hour sessions in a tiny little 8-track demo studio - which probably helps lend it its gritty sound.
"Welcome to the working week" is a catchy, danceable number, "Mystery dance" is boisterous rockabilly and "Alison" is a more tender track.
"Watching the detectives" (not on the original album but released shortly after and included on the version I listened to) is a little bit of white-boy reggae/ska that mines a similar vein as artists such as the Police and the Specials.
No comments:
Post a Comment