Recommended introduction albums to Elvis Costello, Tom Waits, Gram Parsons, Yo La Tengo...?

Question

I want to start listening to Elvis Costello's music but his back catalogue is too large and prolific to know where to begin. I don't want to go the 'best of' compilations route since I like to listen to albums in their entirety, and I don't want to choose a duff album which might put me off him. Could someone recommend to me the three or so best albums to start with? Either his most influential or the ones you think would be the best introduction?

Cheers

Also - since I'm here...could I ask the same question for:

Tom Waits
Yo La Tengo
Gram Parsons

Answer 1

For an enjoyable introduction to Elvis Costello, I would recommend his 1978 album This Year's Model. There isn't a duff track on it, with classic songs such as: (I Don't Want To Go To) Chelsea and Pump It Up. I know nothing about the other artists, so I can't offer any advice on them.

Answer 2

Right, for EC, try this for a very rough guide:

Angry, raw Elvis: "My Aim Is True"

New Wave Elvis: "This Year's Model"

Ambitious Elvis: "Imperial Bedroom"

Americana Elvis: "King of America"

Angular Elvis: "Spike"

Rock n Roll Elvis: "Brutal Youth"

Moody Elvis: "All This Useless Beauty"

Melodic Elvis: "Painted From Memory"

Return to Roots Elvis: "The Delivery Man"

Happy Listening! More than 3 albums I know. But EC is such a prolific and varied artist, that it really depends on what you're interested in. I envy what you're about to discover!

Answer 3

Gram Parsons gave inspiration to bands like the Stones, the Eagles, and (later) Uncle Tupelo.
While he was with the Byrds he recorded "Sweet Heart of the Rodeo " with the Byrds. If you don't have that cd already, I suggest picking it up.
New recordings just came out from a 1969 concert at Avalon Ballroom, worth picking up.
The Gilded Palace of Sin , by the Flying Burrito Brothers is a must have.
Happy listening !

Answer 4

Elvis Costello -Armed Forces
Tom Waits -Rain Dogs

I don't care for Parsons yo lo tengo, but theses are two good albums to start with.

Answer 5

My Aim is True
Armed Forces
This Years Model
i think you will find these three Costello albums excellent. Sorry but dont know about the other artists.

Answer 6

Best place to start is at the beginning with 'My Aim Is True', this was the name of my 1st Mini, had it emblazoned, where most people had 'Shaz and Kev' Lol! bit worrying for pedestrians........