Elvis Costello and the Attractions
This Year’s Model

Elvis Costello and the Attractions’ This Year’s Model is a furious, razor-sharp statement of intent, solidifying Costello’s place as one of the most electrifying songwriters of his era. Released in 1978, the album takes the raw energy of punk and fuses it with a biting lyrical wit and a tightly wound, relentless sound courtesy of the newly assembled Attractions. This Year’s Model pulses with nervous energy, driven by Steve Nieve’s urgent keyboard work, Pete Thomas’ punchy drumming, and Bruce Thomas’ muscular basslines, all propelling Costello’s sneering, acerbic delivery.

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Elvis Costello and the Attractions - This Year's Model

What makes This Year’s Model so compelling is its unfiltered attitude. The songs seethe with frustration, disillusionment, and biting social commentary, wrapped in melodies that feel both urgent and instantly memorable. The production, courtesy of Nick Lowe, keeps everything taut and explosive, capturing the band’s chemistry at its peak.

Beyond its sneering confidence and impeccable songwriting, the album is a masterclass in controlled chaos—every note feels precisely placed, yet brimming with barely contained fury. It’s a defining moment in new wave, proving that intelligence, anger, and melody could collide to create something truly groundbreaking. This Year’s Model remains a timeless, essential listen, showcasing Costello at his most defiant and exhilarating.