The Barclays Center in Brooklyn was transformed into a sanctuary of sound and emotion as Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds took the stage on April 17, 2025. The venue buzzed with anticipation, drawing fans from all walks of life, eager to witness a performance that promised to be both intimate and grandiose. The night began with an opening set by St. Vincent, whose ethereal presence and experimental sounds set the tone for the evening. As the lights dimmed and the band assembled, the crowd’s energy shifted from eager anticipation to rapt attention, ready to embark on a musical journey through Cave’s expansive catalog.
Full Setlist
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Frogs
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Wild God
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Song of the Lake
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O Children
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Jubilee Street
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From Her to Eternity
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Long Dark Night
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Cinnamon Horses
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Tupelo
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Conversion
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Bright Horses
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Joy
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I Need You
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Carnage (Nick Cave & Warren Ellis cover)
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Final Rescue Attempt
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Red Right Hand
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The Mercy Seat
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White Elephant (Nick Cave & Warren Ellis cover)
Encore: -
Papa Won’t Leave You, Henry
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The Weeping Song
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Skeleton Tree
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Into My Arms (Nick solo)
The Energy
From the opening chords of “Frogs”, it was clear that this was no ordinary concert. The band’s performance was a masterclass in dynamics, seamlessly transitioning from hauntingly quiet moments to explosive crescendos. Cave’s commanding stage presence was complemented by the band’s tight musicianship, with each member contributing to the rich tapestry of sound. The addition of a four-piece choir added depth and texture, elevating the overall experience.
The audience responded in kind, their energy ebbing and flowing with the music. During “Jubilee Street”, the crowd was visibly moved, swaying and singing along, fully immersed in the narrative unfolding before them. The interplay between the band and the audience created a symbiotic relationship, each feeding off the other’s energy, resulting in a performance that felt both personal and communal.
Highlights & Crowd Moments
Several moments during the evening stood out, showcasing the band’s ability to connect with their audience on a profound level. “O Children” elicited a wave of emotion, with fans swaying in unison, lost in the song’s haunting melody. The intimacy of the moment was palpable, as if the entire venue had become a single entity, bound together by the music.
“From Her to Eternity” brought a raw intensity to the performance, with Cave’s impassioned delivery and the band’s driving rhythm creating an electrifying atmosphere. The crowd responded with fervor, their cheers echoing throughout the arena.
The encore was a testament to the band’s enduring appeal and the depth of their catalog. “Papa Won’t Leave You, Henry” and “The Weeping Song” showcased the band’s storytelling prowess, while “Skeleton Tree” brought a poignant, reflective moment to the evening. The night concluded with Cave’s solo rendition of “Into My Arms”, a tender and intimate performance that left the audience in awe.
The Vibe
The overall vibe of the evening was one of reverence and celebration. The band’s performance was a testament to their artistry and the deep connection they share with their audience. The venue, with its grand architecture and impeccable acoustics, provided the perfect backdrop for the evening’s events.
The lighting design played a crucial role in setting the mood, with subtle shifts in color and intensity mirroring the ebb and flow of the music. The visual elements complemented the performance without overshadowing it, allowing the music to remain the focal point.
The crowd was a reflection of the band’s diverse appeal, with fans of all ages and backgrounds coming together to experience the magic of the night. There was a palpable sense of community, as if everyone present was part of a shared experience, united by their appreciation for the music.
Tiny Quibbles
While the evening was largely flawless, there were a few minor moments that stood out. Some transitions between songs felt slightly abrupt, momentarily breaking the immersive flow of the performance. Additionally, the acoustics in certain sections of the venue caused slight muddiness in the lower frequencies, making it challenging to fully appreciate the depth of the bass lines.
However, these were minor issues in an otherwise exceptional performance. The band’s ability to engage and captivate the audience far outweighed these small technicalities.
Final Thoughts
Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds’ performance at Barclays Center on April 17, 2025, was a testament to their enduring artistry and the profound connection they share with their audience. The evening was a journey through darkness and light, joy and sorrow, showcasing the band’s ability to evoke deep emotion through their music.
From the haunting opening of “Frogs” to the tender conclusion of “Into My Arms”, the night was a masterclass in live performance. The band’s musicianship, combined with Cave’s charismatic stage presence, created an unforgettable experience that resonated deeply with all in attendance.
As the crowd filed out of the venue, there was a shared sense of fulfillment and gratitude. It was clear that this was more than just a concert; it was a shared experience, a communal celebration of music and emotion. Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds continue to prove that they are not just performers, but storytellers, capable of creating moments that linger long after the final note has been played.