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Blood, Thunder, and Elegy: Nick Cave And The Bad Seeds Shake The Salt Shed To It’s Rafters
By James Currie
Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds live at The Salt Shed, Chicago – April 29, 2025
The Grand Lord of Gothic Darkness AKA, Nick Cave brought his Bad Seeds to Chicago for two nights in late April, starting on the April 28th. This review is on the second and final night the 29th, as they engaged fans on their “Wild God” tour at The Salt Shed, a venue that has quickly become a favorite for its unique blend of industrial charm and intimate acoustics. The 3,600-capacity indoor space was packed, the air thick with anticipation as the band took the stage.
From the moment the lights dimmed, Nick Cave commanded the room with his magnetic presence. Opening with the haunting strains of “Frogs,” he set a somber yet captivating tone for the evening. This was followed by the title track of their latest release, ‘Wild God’ and from their mixed things up from way back.
Another highlight was Cave’s reflection on the enduring influence of Elvis Presley. He spoke of the King’s magnetic presence and the way his music transcended time and genre. This reverence for Elvis segued into a powerful performance of “Tupelo,” a song that, much like Elvis’s own music, continues to resonate deeply with audiences.
It’s truly amazing seeing how Cave and his audience become one with each other. Cave, acting as the minister or preacher man tells his tales like a pop up souther sermon tent. He engages with his audience at a microlevel pacing up and down the isle reaching out to his followers as they reach back in delight as if asking for forgiveness, or saving. Something Cave revels in as he leans into them, stands on their shoulders and takes in everything they give like an energy cell recharging.
Heartbreak was a recurring theme throughout the evening. Cave’s raw and emotive delivery of songs like “Long Dark Night” and “The Weeping Song” left the audience in rapt attention, each note and lyric a testament to the depth of human emotion.
The dynamic duo that is Nick Cave and Warren Ellis, a standout feature of the night was the palpable chemistry between Cave and his longtime collaborator, Ellis. Their interplay was nothing short of electric, with Ellis’s violin and keyboard work complementing Cave’s commanding presence. During “Red Right Hand,” the two exchanged knowing glances and subtle nods, their synchronized movements adding an extra layer of intensity to the performance. The audience responded in kind, singing along with fervor as the iconic riff echoed through the venue.
Their camaraderie was evident as they shared a snark over a technical glitch. by Ellis’ equipment, seamlessly transitioning into an impromptu jam that showcased their musical telepathy. This moment of spontaneity reminded the audience of the joy and freedom that live music brings.
The night’s setlist was a masterful blend of new material from “Wild God” and beloved classics. The band opened with the haunting “Frogs,” setting a somber yet captivating tone. Other notable performances included:
- “The Mercy Seat”
- “Papa Won’t Leave You, Henry”
- “The Weeping Song”
- “Into My Arms”
- “Red Right Hand”
- “Jubilee Street“
Each song was delivered with the intensity and passion that fans have come to expect from Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds.
As the evening drew to a close, Cave and the band returned for an encore, that included delivering a stripped-down version of “Into My Arms” that left the audience in a hushed reverence. The final notes lingered in the air, a poignant end to a night that was as much a spiritual experience as it was a concert. Nick Cave’s ability to connect with his audience, to share in their joys and sorrows, is what makes his live performances truly unforgettable. The Salt Shed was more than just a venue that night; it was a sanctuary for those seeking solace and transcendence through music as Cave preached his own gospel.
For more on Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds, click here
For photos from the show, click here
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Setlist: Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds live in Chicago at the Salt Shed – April 29th, 2025
- Frogs
- Wild God
- Song of the Lake
- O Children
- Jubilee Street
- From Her to Eternity
- Long Dark Night
- Cinnamon Horses
- Tupelo
- Concersions
- Bright Horses
- Joy
- I Need You
- Carnage
- Final Rescue Attempt
- Red Right Hand
- The Mercy Seat
- White Elephant
Encore:
19. Papa Won’t Leave You, Henry
20. The Weeping Song
21. Skeleton Tree
22. Into My Arms
- Chicago, In The Loop Magazine, james currie, live concert review, Nick Cave, Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds, Salt Shed, The Bad Seeds
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