Live At Hollywood High

iTunes Review

Initially three tracks from this concert — “Accidents Will Happen,” “Alison” and “Watching the Detectives” — were issued as a special bonus single with copies of Armed Forces in 1979. The CD age led to the release of another six tracks as bonus material for the upgraded re-master. Now, as part of “The Costello Show” reissues, the entire 20-song concert from Elvis Costello & The Attractions is available for the first time. Costello’s backing trio — drummer Pete Thomas, bassist Bruce Thomas (no relation) and keyboardist Steve Nieve — were peerless, and slam through this set of early Costello compositions with focus and precision. This release features eleven previously unreleased tracks including highlights from This Year’s Model (“Lip Service,” “The Beat, “Pump It Up” and “Radio, Radio”) and Costello’s debut album, My Aim Is True (“(The Angels Wanna Wear My) Red Shoes,” “Waiting for the End of the World” and “Miracle Man”). Nick Lowe handles the live production and things sound even more energetic than the studio versions. Further proof that everything from Costello’s early period is essential listening.