Description
Elvis Costello And The Imposters – The Boy Named If – Double 180 Gram Vinyl Record
Released on January 14, 2022, The Boy Named If is the 32nd studio album by Elvis Costello, featuring his longtime backing band, The Imposters. The album marks a return to a raw, high-energy sound reminiscent of Costello’s earlier work, particularly his late-1970s and early-1980s records. While some of his recent albums, like Look Now (2018), leaned into lush arrangements and sophisticated pop craftsmanship, The Boy Named If embraces a more urgent, guitar-driven rock and new wave aesthetic, bringing back the grit and edge that made Costello famous in the first place.
Lyrically, the album explores themes of youth, identity, and the transition into adulthood, all woven together through a loose concept. The title, The Boy Named If, refers to an imaginary friend—a symbolic figure representing both the mischief of childhood and the illusions we cling to as we grow up. Throughout the album, Costello crafts vivid character-driven narratives, painting portraits of youthful recklessness, heartbreak, and the passage of time. His signature wit and sharp lyrical storytelling are on full display, giving the songs a theatrical, almost literary quality.
The Boy Named If is an explosive, dynamic record, filled with biting guitar riffs, punchy drum beats, and Costello’s unmistakable, expressive vocals. Songs like “Farewell, OK” set the tone with its frenetic pace and aggressive energy, while “Magnificent Hurt” stands out as a driving, organ-heavy rocker that echoes the intensity of Costello’s This Year’s Model era. Meanwhile, tracks like “Paint the Red Rose Blue” provide contrast, offering a more melancholic, reflective side to the album. Costello’s ability to shift between high-energy rock and poignant balladry remains one of his greatest strengths, and The Boy Named If showcases that versatility perfectly.
The album received widespread critical acclaim, with many praising it as a return to form for Costello. Reviewers highlighted the urgency and immediacy of the record, noting how it captures the spirit of his earlier work while still feeling fresh and contemporary. Longtime collaborators Steve Nieve (keyboards), Pete Thomas (drums), and Davey Faragher (bass) once again prove why they are an essential part of Costello’s sound, delivering tight, energetic performances throughout.
Overall, The Boy Named If stands as a testament to Elvis Costello’s enduring creativity and ability to evolve while still staying true to his roots. It’s a record that longtime fans can appreciate for its nods to the past, but it also has enough vitality to engage new listeners. Whether you’re drawn in by the biting rock tracks, the introspective ballads, or the intricate storytelling, the album delivers a compelling listening experience from start to finish.
Double heavyweight vinyl 180G
Brand new, never played and still in the factory plastic
Track Listing
Farewell, Ok
The Boy Named If
Penelope Halfpenny
The Difference
What If I Can’t Give You Anything But Love?
Paint The Red Rose Blue
Mistook Me For A Friend
My Most Beautiful Mistake
Magnificent Hurt
The Man You Love To Hate
The Death Of Magic Thinking
Trick Out The Truth
Mr. Crescent
