Costello Music cover

Released 20 years ago

Costello Music

The Fratellis · 2006

44 min · 13 tracks · alternative rock

A raucous blend of indie rock and garage punk, bursting with catchy hooks and an irrepressible spirit.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Chelsea Dagger — This track stands out for its irresistible chorus and energetic instrumentation, making it a staple at live shows and sporting events.
  • →
    Flathead — The song's driving beat and playful lyrics showcase the band's knack for blending humor with captivating melodies, solidifying their unique sound.
  • →
    Whistle for the Choir — This track features a more melodic and reflective side of the band, highlighting their versatility while maintaining a sing-along quality.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

60 /100
Treeline
Higher than 66% of albums we've rated

The album showcases strong hooks and energetic performances, making it a notable entry in mid-2000s indie rock.

What we noticed

  • The first three tracks maintain a high-energy tempo, while the fourth introduces a slower, more melodic section that contrasts with the preceding songs.
  • Several tracks feature call-and-response vocal patterns, creating an interactive feel that engages listeners.
  • The album's production emphasizes raw guitar riffs and punchy drums, giving it a garage punk aesthetic that complements its indie rock roots.
Composition 25% of the score
7/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
8/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
6/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
7/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
6/10

running order, pacing, length

Influence 6/10

Significant within its genre. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • catchy choruses for sing-alongs
  • steady beats for road trips
  • energetic vibes for parties
  • mid-tempo flow for gatherings

Maybe skip if you

  • prefer slower, introspective tracks
  • seek complex musical arrangements

Where this album fits

In the catalog
Breakthrough — Debut album that propelled The Fratellis to widespread recognition in the UK.
Career context
Costello Music was The Fratellis' debut album, released in January 2006. At this point, the band was gaining momentum after forming just a year prior in Glasgow, quickly rising to prominence in the UK music scene.
Stylistic neighbors
The Raconteurs· Arctic Monkeys· The Hives

Tracklist

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

  • 1 Henrietta 3:32
  • 2 Flathead 3:17
  • 3 Cuntry Boys & City Girls 3:31
  • 4 Whistle for the Choir 3:35
  • 5 Chelsea Dagger 3:35
  • 6 For the Girl 2:48
  • 7 Doginabag 3:20
  • 8 Creepin Up the Backstairs 3:07
  • 9 Vince the Loveable Stoner 3:14
  • 10 Everybody Knows You Cried Last Night 3:54
  • 11 Baby Fratelli 3:56
  • 12 Got Ma Nuts From a Hippy 3:11
  • 13 Ole Black ’n’ Blue Eyes 3:16

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata