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Mighty Like a Rose

by Elvis Costello

Released: May 14, 1991

Rock, pop, baroque pop

musicOnOff editorial

Why This Album Matters

This album matters because its strongest editorial story is: Breakthrough.

The Album

"Mighty Like a Rose" is the twelfth studio album by British singer-songwriter Elvis Costello, released on May 14, 1991. Known for its dense arrangements and varied musical influences, the album showcases Costello's continued evolution as an artist. It includes a mix of rock, pop, and baroque elements, illustrating his penchant for stylistic experimentation.

Inside the Recording

"Mighty Like a Rose" is also noted for its rich production, with contributions from musicians such as Paul McCartney, who co-wrote two tracks, and the presence of Mitchell Froom as a producer.

Stories and details

Interesting Facts

Key tracks from the album include "The Other…

Key tracks from the album include "The Other Side of Summer," which served as the lead single and features biting lyrics juxtaposed with a sunny melody, reminiscent of The Beach Boys.

Other notable songs like "So Like Candy" and…

Other notable songs like "So Like Candy" and "Hurry Down Doomsday (The Bugs Are Taking Over)" reflect Costello's intricate lyrical style and musical versatility.

Some praised its ambitious nature and melodic innovation…

Some praised its ambitious nature and melodic innovation, while others viewed its complexity as challenging.

Regardless, "Mighty Like a Rose" reinforced Costello’s status…

Regardless, "Mighty Like a Rose" reinforced Costello’s status as one of the leading figures in the rock and new wave genres.

Watch and listen

Explore the Album

Elvis Costello - Mighty Like a Rose

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Then

Reception

The album reached commercial success, achieving significant chart positions in the UK and the US. At the time of release, the album received a mixture of critical responses.

Full background

The Complete Album Story

Key tracks from the album include "The Other Side of Summer," which served as the lead single and features biting lyrics juxtaposed with a sunny melody, reminiscent of The Beach Boys. Other notable songs like "So Like Candy" and "Hurry Down Doomsday (The Bugs Are Taking Over)" reflect Costello's intricate lyrical style and musical versatility.

"Mighty Like a Rose" is also noted for its rich production, with contributions from musicians such as Paul McCartney, who co-wrote two tracks, and the presence of Mitchell Froom as a producer. The album reached commercial success, achieving significant chart positions in the UK and the US.

At the time of release, the album received a mixture of critical responses. Some praised its ambitious nature and melodic innovation, while others viewed its complexity as challenging. Regardless, "Mighty Like a Rose" reinforced Costello’s status as one of the leading figures in the rock and new wave genres.