Tag Archives: Elvis Costello

RS #440: The Pogues, Rum, Sodomy and the Lash

#440

The Pogues, Rum, Sodomy and the Lash

Release Date: 1985 Previously Owned: No First Time Listen: Yes
The Pogues – Rum, Sodomy and the Lash
I guess I'll take rum...
Impressions: Irish folk-punk rock. A very narrow little sub-genre, practically invented by The Pogues, that I enjoy in small doses, like a musical version of Jameson's Whiskey. Definitely not for everyone, but if you are open to its aggressive fiddle/banjo/accordion/mandolin/whiskey driven sound, it can be quite bracing. Let's have a shot… The first few songs get right to the point … Continue Reading ››

RS #475: Elvis Costello and the Attractions – Armed Forces

The fake-Pollock cover that the US fans are familiar with.
#475

Elvis Costello and the Attractions, Armed Forces

Release Date: 1979
Previously Owned: Yes
Impressions:  It's hard to imagine now, as Elvis' presence nowadays is merely tolerated or ignored by most people (his collaboration with The Roots sounds great on paper, but that sinking feeling is there.) When Armed Forces came out back in '79, Elvis was considered "cool," or at least he was at his personal coolest. He also seemed kind of dangerous, like a permanently-jilted version of Buddy Holly on speed. This angry, young … Continue Reading ››