Los Angeles really can be an amazing place sometimes. Where else will an artist the stature and as experienced as Elvis Costello decide to play a secret, free midnight show? Very, very few places. Luckily, we are in Los Angeles and this exact thing did happen Wednesday night. Announcing the show at 7pm on Indie 103.1, Costello came straight from his performance in support of the Police, and proceeded to rock the El Rey for two solid hours.

Elvis Costello and the Imposters perform at the El Rey. (Joey Maloney/LAist.com)

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Coming on stage promptly at 11:45 PM(!) Costello, with his backing band, the Imposters, opened with “I Hope Your Happy Now” and “Clown Strike.” Weaving back and forth from older tracks, “Everyday I Write the Book”, “King Of America” and “(I Don’t Wanna Go To) Chelsea” and new tracks off his just released album, Costello was in top form showcasing his legendary songwriting and showmanship. Mid way through the set the band was joined on stage by drummer Tennessee Thomas (of the Like) and daughter of Imposter’s drummer Pete Thomas, as well as Johnathan Rice. One of the highlights was an outstanding cover of the other Elvis’, yeah that one, track “Mystery Train.”

With little pause in between songs, Costello kept the crowd dancing and rocking deep into the morning and finally closed with “Peace Love and Understanding” at around 2 a.m.. It would be treat alone to see an Elvis Costello concert, but to have it in such an intimate venue and for free made for a special evening.