Armed Forces

There are way too many Elvis Costello albums on this list. There should probably be zero.

My first Costello of the many in the generator. It’s OK, but nothing super special in my book. Oliver’s Army is still a great tune, nearly 50 years later, but most of the rest leaves me a bit cold. ‘what’s so funny…’ finishes it off nicely, but it was somewhat of a struggle to get to that point. I suspect I’ll prefer slightly younger, angrier EC but we will see

How many albums does this middling dude have on here

5
Fairly sure there are other words that rhyme with trigger, have to admit this one has really grown on me on repeated listens though

Beyond the controversies that this album carries, I do not find it as amusing or witty as his other work. It is yet another album from the list that could probably be done without.

7/10 [DROP]

It was ok. I didn’t mind listening to, but not something I’d seek out.

Sounds like Elvis.

Respect the songwriting, there's a lot going on and it's all very cleverly and melodically put together, but it just does nothing for me. Showtuney, a bit annoying. It sounds good though, very well recorded, the bass rips, and some of the hooks and harmonies really work. But it's all just a big so what. Lyric driven music for music critics.

Please let this be the last Elvis Costello album on this list I’m begging you

I don’t care much for Elvis Costello’s voice, and what was with the random slur thrown in?? Not impressed.

I enjoyed it, though it wasn't amazing enough to want me to listen to Elvis Costello again.

Scrapes by at 3 stars, first half I was really enjoying it but it ran out of steam and ideas in the second half.

I really don't enjoy his nasal voice in this one. But I LOVE "what's so funny...", but that can't carry the album.
WOW, unexpected slur.

Starts off fine, good even. Gradually it runs out of ideas and becomes mostly boring and samey (though there are some alright moments later on like parts of Chemistry Class)

It sounds like an Elvis Costello record. If you’re into that, you’ll probably love it. Even the one about gooning or the two hitlers one.

Al fin un disco de Elvis Costello que me gusta. Me guardo: "Accidents Will Happen", "Oliver's Army", "Green Shirt", "Goon Squad", "Two Little Hitlers" y
"(What's So Funny 'Bout) Peace, Love, and Understanding".

It's all of his shittiest hits in one album wrapped up in terrible cover art and he threw in an additional racial slur

Just a collection of catchy, fun songs delivered with enough personality to make them stand out, and the album doesn't waste any time. Sometimes that's all you need.

I needed a great album today after a couple of underwhelming listens and Armed Forces delivered exactly that.

I’ve always loved this record, and I’ve always loved Elvis Costello at his sharpest. The melodies are immediate, almost deceptively catchy, but underneath there’s bite. The production is slick without losing its edge, and there’s a confidence running through the whole thing. It sounds tight, focused, and purposeful.

What really stands out is the balance: pop hooks on the surface, but pointed, intelligent lyrics underneath. There’s real weight behind the words, political tension, emotional frustration, social commentary yet it never feels heavy-handed. The variety across the album keeps it moving, shifting from punchy new wave energy to more intricate, layered moments.

Favourite tracks: “Oliver’s Army” is an absolute classic, catchy enough to get stuck in your head for days, but far smarter than your average pop single. “Accidents Will Happen” is brilliant, “Green Shirt” has that cool, slightly sinister groove, and “Party Girl” is just a great tune. There are genuinely no weak spots.

Least favourite tracks: None. Everything is worth a listen.

Album artwork: I love the cover bold, colourful, chaotic.

I'm not such a big fan of a white musician using the N word. Even aside from that, the album was just okay. I do reserve the 1 star rating for albums that are difficult or offensive to listen to.