This Year's Model Review: New Wave Wit and Venom
9/10 — Elvis Costello - This Year's Model (1978)
Pros
- Razor-sharp wordplay
- The Attractions' tight playing
- 'Pump It Up'
Cons
- Misanthropic lyrics
- Raw production
This Year’s Model was recorded with the Attractions, with Costello’s sharp, venomous songs about love, power and media. It’s tight and driven, with Steve Nieve’s organ giving it a distinctive sound.
What works
‘Pump It Up’, ‘Radio Radio’ and ‘(I Don’t Want to Go to) Chelsea’ are catchy and furious, and the Attractions are terrific. Costello’s wordplay is vivid and cutting.
Where it falters
Some of the lyrics are misanthropic and sneering, and the production is raw.
Verdict
A punchy, witty and tuneful classic.
