What makes Almost Blue by Elvis Costello & the Attractions notable?

Almost Blue received critical acclaim for its ambitious departure from Costello's earlier sound, with many reviewers praising his ability to interpret classic country songs. The album was influential in bridging rock and country genres, contributing to the growing acceptance of alternative artists within country music circles. Released in October 1981, Almost Blue was Elvis Costello's first full-length album focused entirely on country music. This followed his acclaimed new wave debut, My Aim Is True, and marked a significant stylistic shift as he explored the genre while still being at the height of his creative powers.

Who is Almost Blue for?

Almost Blue works well if you're into introspective reflections on heartbreak, live performance energy interspersed and short tracks for focused listening.

How many songs are on Almost Blue?

Almost Blue has 23 tracks, running approximately 64 minutes.

Almost Blue

Elvis Costello & the Attractions · 1981

64 min · 23 tracks · new wave

A poignant collection of country-inflected ballads that showcase Costello's lyrical depth and expressive vocal delivery.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Good Year for the Roses — This track stands out for its emotional weight and melancholic storytelling, showcasing Costello's gift for transforming a simple narrative into a profound experience.
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Tonight the Bottle Let Me Down — Costello’s rendition captures the essence of heartbreak through its mournful melody and heartfelt interpretation, paying homage to classic country themes.
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Colour of the Blues — The song highlights Costello's vocal range and emotional resonance, effectively conveying themes of loss and longing that resonate throughout the album.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

introspective reflections on heartbreak
live performance energy interspersed
short tracks for focused listening
contemplative moments of longing

Maybe skip if you

seekers of high-energy beats
prefer single anthems over variety

Where this album fits

Career context: Released in October 1981, Almost Blue was Elvis Costello's first full-length album focused entirely on country music. This followed his acclaimed new wave debut, My Aim Is True, and marked a significant stylistic shift as he explored the genre while still being at the height of his creative powers.
Stylistic neighbors: Roxy Music· Duran Duran· Bronski Beat

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

1 Why Don’t You Love Me (Like You Used to Do)? 1:40
2 Sweet Dreams 3:00
3 Success 2:42
4 I’m Your Toy 3:24
5 Tonight the Bottle Let Me Down 2:10
6 Brown to Blue 2:40
7 Good Year for the Roses 3:10
8 Sittin’ and Thinkin’ 3:03
9 Colour of the Blues 2:21
10 Too Far Gone 3:28
11 Honey Hush 2:15
12 How Much I Lied 2:56
13 He’s Got You (live, The Mean Machine, Aberdeen) 4:07
14 Cry, Cry, Cry (live, The Mean Machine, Aberdeen) 2:45
15 There Won’t Be Anymore (live, The Mean Machine, Aberdeen) 2:24
16 Sittin’ and Thinkin’ (live, The Mean Machine, Aberdeen) 2:55
17 Honey Hush (live, The Mean Machine, Aberdeen) 2:32
18 Psycho (live, The Palomino Club, North Hollywood) 3:37
19 Your Angel Steps Out of Heaven 1:58
20 Darling, You Know I Wouldn’t Lie 2:37
21 My Shoes Keep Walking Back to You 2:04
22 Tears Before Bedtime 2:27
23 I’m Your Toy (live, The Royal Albert Hall) 3:47

What to play next

Listen next

Trust

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Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata