Labour of Lust (Remastered)

This classic 1979 album has been remastered and now includes the U.K. only track, “Endless Grey Ribbon” and the bonus B-side, “Basing Street” to make a perfect album even more perfect. With the backing of Rockpile, Nick Lowe thrashes through thirteen pieces of snarling pop genius. “Cruel to Be Kind” was the hit, but there are many other contenders here. “Cracking Up,” “American Squirm,” and “Switchboard Susan” are everything that was great about the new-wave explosion, as Lowe’s brand of pub-rock got an extra kick-up in production and commercial attention. The Bo Diddley thump of “Big Kick, Plain Scrap” sparks up a creepy, twisted tune. Dave Edmunds’ slashing guitar is all over the album. The harmonies are taut. The lead vocals are effective and true. “Born Fighter” is the best bar band in the world galloping to the finish. “You Make Me” is a heartbreaking ballad reminiscent of Elvis Presley. This album was inexplicably out of print and has now returned sounding every bit as alive as the day it was released.