In 1976 Declan Patrick MacManus played in the  London’s pub rock scene in the early 1970s as well as performing in the Liverpool-based folk duo Rusty. Between 1974 and 1976 he played in the rock band Flip City and adopted the stage name D.P. Costello just like his father did. Then he was contracted by Stiff Records. He looked like a Buddy Holly and Elvis Presley into one person.
Watching The Detectives - 1977 Single

The album "My Aim Is True" was released in 1977 and produced by Nick Lowe who would produce more of his albums later. Not yet with his well known band the Attractions but the band Clover from California. The musical style was influenced by rock'n'roll of the 50's and introduced to the new-wave era. He adopted the name Elvis a few weeks after Elvis Presley had died. Which gave him great reviews in the press stating the king is dead but a new king has risen.
Alison - 1977 single
 “Watching the Detectives” was his greatest hit from this album and his first single with the Attractions. "Alison" was the spiritual centerpiece where the title of the album comes from and also a hit. "Less Than Zero" with Costello’s “Hey oh way-ah-ayays!” are certainly catchy. Not bad for a debut album. His next albums would become his real masterpieces: "This Year's Model", "Armed Forces" and "Get Happy!". The album is entertaining enough and a forecast of what has to come.

After this album the band Clover would continue as Huey Lewis and the News.

Album cover 1977

My Aim Is True
Welcome to the Working Week / Miracle Man / No Dancing / Blame It on Cain / Alison / Sneaky Feelings / (The Angels Wanna Wear My) Red Shoes / Less Than Zero / Mystery Dance / Pay It Back / I'm Not Angry / Waiting for the End of the World / (Watching The Detectives)