My Aim Is True
My Aim Is True, debut album by
Elvis Costello, helped create the
new wave genre, both musically and in the stylish appearance of the man himself. Released in
1977 by
Stiff Records/
Columbia Records, this album broke new ground with short, fast songs and
punk,
pop, and
reggae influence, without the overt abrasion or heavy politics of punk. Clearly a reaction to the bloat of over-produced
1960's-
1970's stadium rock, this definitive new wave album features songs that are quick, danceable, and accessible, with very straightforward production. Elvis looks like a
1950's throwback, with his short hair, heavy-rimmed spectacles, suit jacket, and pegged jeans. Cover art features rows of tiny black and white checks. Future albums featured The Attractions, but this one features Clover, a band that would go on to become
Huey Lewis and the News. It was
produced by
Nick Lowe.
Tracks
- Welcome to the Working Week
- Miracle Man
- No Dancing
- Blame it on Cain
- Alison
- Sneaky Feelings
- Watching the Detectives
- (The Angels Wanna Wear My) Red Shoes
- Less Than Zero
- Mystery Dance
- Pay It Back
- I'm Not Angry
- Waiting for the End of the World