Hey Clockface

"Hey Clockface" is a studio album by British singer-songwriter Elvis Costello, released on October 30, 2020. The album marks Costello's 31st studio release and showcases his eclectic musical style by blending various genres, including rock, jazz, and spoken word.

The recording process for "Hey Clockface" was notably diverse, taking place in multiple locations. Sessions were held in Helsinki, Paris, and New York. In Helsinki, Costello worked solo, performing all the instruments himself for a set of the album's tracks. The sessions in Paris involved a collaboration with French musicians, where they recorded live to capture a spontaneous and raw energy. The New York sessions incorporated elements of spoken word and featured a brass section, contributing to the album’s eclectic sound.

Costello’s intention with "Hey Clockface" was to explore different musical landscapes and storytelling approaches. The album was produced with the aim of creating a distinct atmosphere for each track, resulting in a varied and multifaceted listening experience.

Lyrically, the album delves into themes of love, loss, and time, often wrapped in Costello's signature wit and lyrical depth. The single "No Flag" was among the first to be released, showcasing an immediate and intense rock sound, which contrasted with other tracks that leaned towards more subdued and jazz-inflected tones.

Critically, "Hey Clockface" received positive reviews for its inventiveness and Costello's continued ability to reinvent his sound while maintaining lyrical poignancy. The album has been praised for its diverse instrumentation and production techniques, which highlight Costello's versatility as an artist.