all this useless beauty

By jasonjklewis

Elvis Costello

By my estimations this is probably the ninth time of seen Elvis Costello perform live, ranging from acoustic sets at Glastonbury, to shows with the reformed Attractions and a beautiful set with the Brodsky Quartet.

Tonight was probably the best show of his I've seen. A magnificent 'best of ' (partly selected by members of the audience rotating an on stage 'Spinning Songbook'), his band The Imposters (mostly former members of the Attractions), in great shape. I may have sung along with every word...

There was an ovation for the poignant Tramp the Dirt Down, and another for beautifully sad Shipbuilding. The finale was the rousing What's so Funny 'bout, Peace, Love and Understanding.

My highlight? A brooding version of his best, and darkest, song I Want You.

An amazing show.

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