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Elvis Costello has absorbed so many styles into his music it is impossible to predict his next move.
Last night he alternated up-tempo, horns-featured numbers and poignant ballads with great aplomb.
But although there was much jollity during the special Christmas concert, the underlying mood was sombre. And it was set right at the start, with a haunting version by just Costello and virtuoso keyboards player Steve Nieve of "Pills and Soap."
It was immediately followed by a frantic rendition of "Let Them All Talk" and the thrilling two-hour set contained many more bouncy, brassy tunes. But time and again Elvis returned to his theme.
As well as the condemning "Shipbuilding," there was a reading of The Beat's plea to the Prime Minister, "Stand Down Margaret," and a new composition, "Peace In Our Time."
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