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

'Almost Blue' received critical acclaim for its heartfelt interpretations of classic country songs, influencing a generation of artists navigating the intersection of rock and country. The album also highlighted Costello's ability to transcend genre boundaries, further solidifying his status in the music industry during the early 1980s. Released on October 23, 1981, 'Almost Blue' marked Elvis Costello's foray into country music, following the punk and new wave success of albums like 'This Year's Model' and 'Get Happy!!'. It showcased a significant stylistic shift as he explored traditional country sounds with The Attractions while continuing to cement his reputation as a versatile songwriter.

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 contemplative blend of country-inflected melodies and poignant, introspective lyrics that reflect heartbreak and longing.

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Why this album works

'Almost Blue' received critical acclaim for its heartfelt interpretations of classic country songs, influencing a generation of artists navigating the intersection of rock and country. The album also highlighted Costello's ability to transcend genre boundaries, further solidifying his status in the music industry during the early 1980s.

Best for: introspective reflections on heartbreak live performance energy interspersed short tracks for focused listening
Context: Released on October 23, 1981, 'Almost Blue' marked Elvis Costello's foray into country music, following the punk and new wave success of albums like 'This Year's Model' and 'Get Happy!!'. It showcased a significant stylistic shift as he explored traditional country sounds with The Attractions while continuing to cement his reputation as a versatile songwriter.
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)? Standout 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 Standout 2:10
6 Brown to Blue 2:40
7 Good Year for the Roses Standout 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

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata

What to play next

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Get Happy!!

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new wave