The Return of the Spectacular Spinning Songbook (Live)

The Return of the Spectacular Spinning Songbook (Live)

Elvis Costello recorded this live album during a two-night engagement at Los Angeles' Wiltern Theater on May 11 and May 12, 2011. He brought back the spinning wheel that was spun to determine the setlist years ago. The selections are diverse, with intense covers of Nick Lowe's "Heart of the City" and The Rolling Stones' "Out of Time" nicely peppering a list that includes well-known tunes, slightly more obscure album tracks, and The Bangles' Susanna Hoffs on lead vocals for "Tear Off Your Own Head (It's a Doll Revolution)." Most importantly, the performances are electrifying, played with a precision and energy that brings the songs to current life. "I Hope You're Happy Now," from 1986's Blood and Chocolate, boasts real fury that carries through the set's first half. The piano ballad "God Give Me Strength" gives Costello a breather, but he's working hard for his paycheck here. "Watching the Detectives" retains its tension. "I Want You" turns up the friction to the breaking point. 

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