this is truly a "transitional" album. both the young, snotty elvis and the middle-aged, bitter elvis can be heard in these intricate, claustrophobic songs. elvis sounds like he's not entirely in control of his unruly band or his thorny, difficult songs here, and he doesn't really seem to care. the end result is rewarding, but only for the previously committed. trust me....

Trust was the point where Elvis started using the piano to expand on his musical ideas, and Steve Nieve was the right person to do it for him.

Trust often gets overlooked, perhaps because at the time it wasn't a popular hit (during a period when Elvis did have popular hits), but also because his next album of originals would be "Imperial Bedroom" where the piano really took over.

But Trust has tighter songs, and it rocks so much harder than "IB", in much the same way that makes me consider the Beatles' "Revolver" to be a slightly better album than "Sergeant Pepper".

If you are an Elvis Costello fan, this album is essential.

Trust indeed catches Elvis in a period of transition. He seems to be growing away from the thumping pop hooks to more sophisticated, although somber, material. I believe he delivers in both areas, popping and rocking on great tracks like "Strict Time" (give it a listen above), "From a Whisper to a Scream" (with Squeeze's Glenn Tillbrook) and "Fish and Chip Paper"- whilst toning it down to great effect on "Watch Your Step" and "Big Sister's Clothes". I don't think his vocals have ever sounded this good. If you are someone who is trying to figure out what Elvis is all about, I would suggest this album. It may not have all the hits, but catches him at the first fork in his career road. I highly recommend it. I have every one of Elvis's CDs and this remains my favorite.

This is one of the best albums in history - buy it!

There are not many albums that are almost exclusivly on base piano and drums.

One may say that this album is the first Costello made without his original, and indeed brilliant, punch. But that would be to underestimate his ability to make extraordinary music with the use of balladery and moods.

"Trust" is my all-time favourite album; eclectic and surprising, but never without the fine melody, and always with a lyrical finesse to it.

"Luxembourg" and "From a whisper to a scream" makes you even happier and frenetic than "Get Happy!!" did, and "Shot by his own gun" or the beautiful "New Lace Sleeves" reveals the real composer inside the Pope of Pop.

Recommended!!