Trust
Elvis Costello & the Attractions · 1981
67 min · 23 tracks · new wave
A blend of sharp lyrical wit and diverse arrangements, creating a sonic landscape that balances pop sensibility with new wave experimentation.
Top tracks — play these first
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Clubland — The opening track sets the tone with its vibrant instrumentation and biting lyrics about nightlife, establishing the album’s exploration of modern life.
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New Lace Sleeves — This track stands out for its rich melodic structure and introspective lyrics, reflecting on themes of love and vulnerability amidst a bustling backdrop.
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Watch Your Step — With its infectious rhythm and sardonic lyrics, this song captures the essence of Costello's witty commentary on relationships and societal expectations.
Is this for you?
Good fit if you like
- witty lyrics for sharp minds
- dynamic tempo shifts throughout
- for reflective afternoons
- engaging narratives in short bursts
- playful energy for social settings
Maybe skip if you
- prefer longer, cohesive albums
- want instant gratification tracks
Where this album fits
- Career context
- Trust was released in 1981 as Elvis Costello's fifth studio album, following the critically acclaimed Almost Blue. By this time, Costello had established himself as a prominent figure in the UK new wave scene, known for his clever songwriting and eclectic musical style. This album continued to showcase his evolution as an artist, moving beyond pure punk influences to incorporate more varied genres.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Roxy Music· Duran Duran· Bronski Beat
Moments worth listening for
Where the writing does something specific.
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New Lace Sleeves
The chorus shifts dramatically in tone as it juxtaposes romantic longing with a sense of resignation.
This tonal shift illustrates a complex emotional landscape, revealing how hope and despair can coexist within personal relationships.
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Clubland 3:43
- 2 Lover’s Walk 2:18
- 3 You’ll Never Be a Man 2:59
- 4 Pretty Words 3:13
- 5 Strict Time 2:42
- 6 Luxembourg 2:28
- 7 Watch Your Step 3:00
- 8 New Lace Sleeves 3:46
- 9 From a Whisper to a Scream 2:57
- 10 Different Finger 1:59
- 11 White Knuckles 3:48
- 12 Shot With His Own Gun 3:31
- 13 Fish ’n’ Chip Paper 2:58
- 14 Big Sister’s Clothes 2:20
- 15 Black Sails in the Sunset 2:58
- 16 Big Sister 2:20
- 17 Sad About Girls 2:51
- 18 Twenty-five to Twelve 4:03
- 19 Love for Sale 3:06
- 20 Weeper’s Dream 1:07
- 21 Gloomy Sunday 3:15
- 22 Boy With a Problem 2:33
- 23 Seconds of Pleasure 3:19
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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