Top tracks — play these first
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Cruel to Be Kind Start here — This track stands out not only for its catchy melody but also for its clever exploration of love's complexities through ironic lyrics. It became Lowe's most recognized song, helping to define his reputation as a songwriter.
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Skin Deep — With its infectious chorus and rhythmic groove, this song showcases Lowe's ability to blend pop sensibilities with deeper emotional themes, reflecting on surface appearances versus inner truth.
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Big Kick, Plain Scrap — This track highlights Lowe's knack for storytelling as it captures a sense of youthful exuberance and frustration, set against a backdrop of lively instrumentation that embodies the album's energetic spirit.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
The album blends catchy melodies with sharp lyrics, maintaining a vibrant energy while exploring varied themes.
What we noticed
- Several songs incorporate playful lyrical wordplay, often delivered with a conversational vocal style that enhances their wit.
- The last two tracks slow down the tempo significantly, creating a contrast that allows for a reflective conclusion to the album.
- Composition 25% of the score
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7/10
- Craft 20% of the score
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8/10
- Durability 25% of the score
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6/10
- Distinctiveness 18% of the score
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6/10
- Sequencing 12% of the score
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7/10
the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics
production, performance, arrangement
whether it rewards returning to it
whether it sounds like itself
running order, pacing, length
Known within its scene. 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
- witty lyrics for sharp minds
- steady pacing for easy listening
- for afternoon hangouts
- catchy hooks that invite singing
- short tracks for quick enjoyment
Maybe skip if you
- prefer long, immersive albums
- seek experimental soundscapes
Where this album fits
- In the catalog
- Breakthrough — Established Lowe's reputation with hit single 'Cruel to Be Kind' and wider recognition.
- Themes
- ironic love stories· new wave wit
- Career context
- Released in 1979, Labour of Lust is Nick Lowe's second solo album, following his acclaimed debut, Jesus of Cool. At this point in his career, Lowe was establishing himself as a prominent figure in the new wave scene, building on his earlier success to further refine his distinct sound and lyrical style.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Elvis Costello· Graham Parker· Joe Jackson
Moments worth listening for
Where the writing does something specific.
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Cruel to Be Kind
The narrative shifts from playful banter to a sincere acknowledgment of love’s painful truths.
This transition underscores the song's central theme by juxtaposing humor with vulnerability, illustrating how affection can often come with difficult realizations.
Tracklist
- 1 Cruel to Be Kind Start here 3:31
- 2 Cracking Up 2:59
- 3 Big Kick, Plain Scrap 2:28
- 4 Born Fighter 3:09
- 5 You Make Me 1:53
- 6 Skin Deep 3:16
- 7 Switchboard Susan 3:50
- 8 Endless Grey Ribbon 3:17
- 9 Without Love 2:29
- 10 Dose of You 3:21
- 11 Love So Fine 3:52
If this landed
Records by other artists that run on the same instinct.
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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