'the spectacular spinning songbook' made its first appearance in 1986 in los angeles during the 'costello sings again tour.' in 2011, elvis costello and the imposters set out on the revolver tour and, for the first time in 25 years, costello once again allowed his set-list to be chosen by 'the spectacular spinning songbook,' a monumental game-show type wheel spun by select fans and featuring songs from his latest critically acclaimed release national ransom, plus new renditions of hits, rarities and very unexpected covers. recorded over a 2-night stand at the wiltern theater in los angeles on may 11 and 12, 2011, the cd was culled from both nights' performances, shows which the los angeles times said were 'the kind of uniquely invigorating experience that warrants a buzzword all its own: inspiring.' and includes popular songs such as 'everyday i write the book', 'god give me strength', 'watching the detectives', '(what's so funny 'bout) peace, love and understanding' plus a cover of the rolling stones' out of time; an extended 'i want you'; and the return of the bangles on 'tear off your own head'.