What makes Wise Up Ghost by Elvis Costello notable?

Wise Up Ghost received critical acclaim upon its release, noted for blending rock with hip-hop elements in innovative ways. It was praised in publications like Rolling Stone and Pitchfork, which highlighted its fresh take on Costello's songwriting. This collaboration also helped bridge the gap between rock and contemporary hip-hop, influencing future genre-blending projects. Released in 2013, Wise Up Ghost marks a significant collaboration between Elvis Costello and hip-hop band The Roots. This album arrived after a series of explorations into diverse genres for Costello, showcasing a continued evolution following his 2010 release National Ransom. The partnership highlights both artists' willingness to push boundaries within their respective styles.

Who is Wise Up Ghost for?

Wise Up Ghost works well if you're into poignant lyrical storytelling, vibrant rhythmic grooves and engaging sing-along moments.

How many songs are on Wise Up Ghost?

Wise Up Ghost has 12 tracks, running approximately 56 minutes.

Wise Up Ghost

Elvis Costello · 2013

56 min · 12 tracks · new wave

A vibrant blend of rock and rhythm, merging Costello's sharp lyrics with the eclectic soundscapes of The Roots.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Walk Us Uptown — Opening with a driving beat and jazzy undertones, this track establishes the album's dynamic sound while introducing themes of urgency and change.
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Sugar Won’t Work — This song features a catchy hook and poignant lyrics that reflect personal and societal struggles, showcasing Costello's lyrical prowess and emotional depth.
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(She Might Be a) Grenade — With its explosive imagery and infectious rhythm, this track encapsulates the album's energetic spirit while addressing complex relationships.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

64 /100

Treeline

Higher than 79% of albums we've rated

The album showcases a strong blend of rock and hip-hop, with innovative structures and solid production.

What we noticed

Several tracks incorporate spoken word segments, blending Costello's vocal delivery with The Roots' rhythmic backing.
The album frequently shifts between tempos and styles, with some songs featuring abrupt transitions that challenge traditional song structures.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 8/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 8/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 7/10

Influence 4/10

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

poignant lyrical storytelling
vibrant rhythmic grooves
engaging sing-along moments
inviting upbeat energy

Maybe skip if you

dislike varied song lengths
prefer immediate gratification

Where this album fits

Career context: Released in 2013, Wise Up Ghost marks a significant collaboration between Elvis Costello and hip-hop band The Roots. This album arrived after a series of explorations into diverse genres for Costello, showcasing a continued evolution following his 2010 release National Ransom. The partnership highlights both artists' willingness to push boundaries within their respective styles.
Stylistic neighbors: Joe Jackson· Graham Parker· Squeeze