Playing Live: The Eternal Conflict of Interests

Rationally speaking, I respect Elvis Costello and his band for using their gig in Tokyo last night to play mostly new songs. My mind knows good musicians must constantly create anew.

In my heart, I'm disappointed. This is made worse by how well they played those new songs. What would it have been like to hear songs from Spike or This Year's Model played live? Judging from the stunning version of "I Want You" to finish the gig, "Pump It Up" or "Tramp the Dirt Down" would have been very special.

But don't worry, Elvis. My mind, at least, knows you did the right thing.