Taking Liberties cover

Taking Liberties

Elvis Costello · 1980

51 min · 20 tracks · new wave · punk

A frenetic collection of sharp lyrics and energetic melodies that captures the spirit of late '70s punk and new wave.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • quick bursts of sharp wit
  • energetic tracks for road trips
  • playful irreverence in every song
  • sing-along moments with friends
  • punchy anthems for lively gatherings

Maybe skip if you want

  • prefer long, contemplative pieces
  • seek slow, gradual builds

Where this album fits

Career context
Released in 1980, 'Taking Liberties' is a compilation of non-album tracks from Elvis Costello's early career, following his acclaimed debut 'My Aim Is True' and sophomore release 'This Year's Model'. At this point, he was solidifying his reputation as a prolific songwriter with a flair for blending genres.
Stylistic neighbors
Joe Jackson· Graham Parker· Squeeze

Tracklist

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

  • 1 Clean Money 2:00
  • 2 Girls Talk 1:57
  • 3 Talking in the Dark 1:56
  • 4 Radio Sweetheart 2:29
  • 5 Black and White World 1:50
  • 6 Big Tears 3:10
  • 7 Just a Memory 2:18
  • 8 Night Rally 2:43
  • 9 Stranger in the House 3:03
  • 10 Clowntime Is Over 3:48
  • 11 Getting Mighty Crowded 2:10
  • 12 Hoover Factory 1:45
  • 13 Tiny Steps 2:42
  • 14 (I Don’t Want to Go to) Chelsea 3:07
  • 15 Dr. Luther’s Assistant 3:29
  • 16 Sunday’s Best 3:24
  • 17 Crawling to the U.S.A. 2:54
  • 18 Wednesday Week 2:05
  • 19 My Funny Valentine 1:31
  • 20 Ghost Train 3:06

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata