Elvis Costello And The Attractions* – Goodbye Cruel World

Costello's "worst" album (his OWN words, mind you)??? Nah, I'm just not hearing it on this one. Matter of fact, I quickly found 1984's 'Goodbye Cruel World' to be one of his most accessible studio efforts from his celebrated Attractions period at first listen. I think he only said it due to the fact that he and his band's record label were having problems re-negotiating their record deal at the time and that's what led to the eventual fallout between both parties after the album was officially released. Songwriting is still first-rate (this IS Elvis we're talking here, lol) as well as musical backing from the Attractions for that matter. Sure, there are other Elvis Costello releases I would obviously rank higher (i.e. everything from 1979's 'Armed Forces' right up to 1982's 'Imperial Bedroom'), but this one right here I would easily place somewhere in the middle of the pack as far as his entire discography goes.

This album is often mentioned as one of Elvis' worst albums. But it was my first exposure to him as a freshman in college. I loved it and it is still one of my favorites. Went on to explore the rest of his catalogue but still rank this as one of my favorites. And that, I think, is what leads to Elvis is King. On his worst days he can still make someone a great record.

Great sounding pressing! Well worth looking for a clean copy.. Good songs as well. :)

For me this approaches peak Elvis. Another album from the period that only improves with more play.

This album may have been slated as EC's worst, but in hindsight seems like a great addition to an early discography. Minus a couple of dull tracks, it has some real classics.