Music Appreciation
Released on June 10, 1978, Pump It Up is one of Elvis Costello & the Attractions' most electrifying songs, originally appearing on Costello’s second album, This Year’s Model. A driving force of the new wave and pub rock scene, the song captures the manic energy of late-'70s punk-infused rock.
Lyrically, Pump It Up is both a satirical take on hedonism and a commentary on frenzied desire, with Costello’s signature wit shining through. The pounding bassline, rapid-fire drumbeat, and Steve Nieve’s signature swirling organ give the song an almost relentless pulse, reinforcing its theme of excess. Built on a tight, repetitive riff reminiscent of Bob Dylan’s "Subterranean Homesick Blues", the track is a masterclass in controlled chaos.
The song’s music video, directed by Paul Flattery for Jon Roseman Productions, perfectly captures its restless energy. Costello, decked out in his trademark skinny suit and Buddy Holly glasses, showcases his iconic jerky dancing, flailing and bouncing around with an urgency that matches the song’s unrelenting beat. The video’s low-budget, high-energy aesthetic only adds to its charm, embodying the raw, no-frills attitude of the punk/new wave movement.
Sources:
Wikipedia
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