Albums by this artist

Brutal Youth was never meant to be "The Great Attractions Reunion," as the press heralded it.

In fact, most of the Attractions weren't initially even going to be on the album. Costello went into Pathway Studio with Attractions drummer Pete Thomas to write and record an album's worth of songs for pop singer Wendy James.

But the writing and recording was going so well that Costello decided to start work on his own new album. He intended to play all the instruments, barring drums, which Thomas would play. But Costello soon realized his musicianship wasn't quite up to snuff. So he called in another Attraction, Steve Nieve (piano/keyboards), as well as his original producer and mentor Nick Lowe to play bass.

This lineup cut several of the tracks on Brutal Youth, but Lowe was uncomfortable playing certain songs, so he suggested that Costello get Bruce Thomas, the Attractions' original bassist, to come in and finish the album. Though this suggestion seems a bit ludicrous -- Costello and Thomas had been fighting for years -- Elvis did just that. As a result, half the album became a "reunion."

The biggest complaint one can make about Brutal Youth is about length. The album is fifteen tracks long and at times it really starts to drag on. It's not so much that the songs aren't good, it's just that the record could use a little more focus.

As it stands it's an hodge-podge of violent rockers like "13 Steps Lead Down," mid-tempo ballads like "You Tripped At Very Step" and in between, a little bit of soul ("Clown Strike"). There are also some hidden gems on this album. "This Is Hell," "Still Too Soon To Know," "20% Amnesia," and "All The Rage" are fantastic songs.

And once again, Costello proves his undeniable talent at writing the perfect closing track with "Favourite Hour." Following on the heels of three of Costello's most difficult albums, Spike, Mighty Like A Rose, and The Juliet Letters, Brutal Youth is great fun.

BRADLEY SMITH |