"Imperial Bedroom" is the seventh studio album by Elvis Costello, released on 2 July 1982 by F-Beat Records in the UK and Columbia Records in the US. Produced by Geoff Emerick and recorded at AIR Studios in London, the album marked a departure with its emphasis on studio experimentation and use of unusual instruments like harpsichord and accordion, alongside lush string arrangements by Steve Nieve. The album blends pop styles including new wave, baroque pop, and art rock, with lyrics focusing on love and relationships, often delving into emotional complexities. Co-written with Squeeze's Chris Difford, "Boy With a Problem" is a notable track. The album's cover art, a painting by Barney Bubbles, pays homage to Picasso's Three Musicians.
Despite critical acclaim for its songwriting, production, and performances reminiscent of the Beatles and Phil Spector, "Imperial Bedroom" achieved modest commercial success, reaching number 6 in the UK and number 30 in the US. Singles like "You Little Fool" and "Man Out of Time" did not perform strongly on the charts. The album's intricate and layered sound divided critics, but it has since been celebrated as one of Costello's finest works. It continues to appear on best-of lists and has been reissued several times with additional tracks.
