.

NICK CAVE / Photo – @mattyoungpics

.

NICK CAVE
@ The Star Theatre,
Gold Coast,
12th May 2024
(Live Review)

Review by Audrey Songvilay

Photos by Matt Young (@mattyoungpics)

.

NICK CAVE / Photo – @mattyoungpics

.

As the lights dimmed, a figure emerged, bass in hand — Colin Greenwood, from the iconic band Radiohead, steps onto the stage at The Star, Gold Coast. And then, clad in his signature black attire, there he was: Nick Cave. Tall, brooding, and slightly awkward.

The crowd erupted, declaring their love for the man himself, but Cave, ever the wry wordsmith, couldn’t resist a quip: “Casino Crowd.”

The setlist unfolded like a carefully crafted narrative, taking us on a journey through the depths of Cave’s illustrious career with The Bad Seeds. Opening with the haunting strains of “Girl in Amber.” Cave’s voice is piercing, setting a chilling and atmospheric tone that lingered throughout the evening.

It’s fascinating to witness Cave playfully downplay his lyricism, especially given the profound depth of his music. With an awkward yet endearing display of body language and mannerisms, Cave peppers his set with witty banter and even cheekily references Hannah Montana, because why not?

However, once he begins to sing, a remarkable transformation occurs. It’s as though we were instantly transported to the darkest corners of the human experience.

Love, loss, and existential longing.

Tracks like “Jesus of the Moon” and “Papa Won’t Leave You, Henry” showcased Cave’s unparalleled ability to weave intricate narratives with his evocative storytelling. We understand Cave’s relationship with grief is profound and deeply intertwined with his artistry.

Grief permeates Cave.

.

NICK CAVE / Photo – @mattyoungpics

.

His songs often grapple with the aftermath of loss, whether it be the death of a loved one, the dissolution of a relationship, or the existential despair that accompanies the human condition.

It’s not one-dimensional. It is complex and multifaceted, much like the human experience itself.

Yet, amidst the darkness, there is also a glimmer of hope, a sense of redemption that emerges from the depths of despair.

“I am now a grandfather” Cave declares, happily.

Highlights of the evening included the emotionally charged “O Children,” where Cave’s impassioned vocals hit us with such raw intensity. Notably, even those seated high in the balcony had their spotlight as they were encouraged to cheer whenever Cave belted out “Balcony Man.” The man truly has a magnetic stage presence.

As the night drew to a close, Cave treated the audience to an encore that left us all in awe. From the punk-infused energy of “Shivers” to the soul-stirring beauty of “Into My Arms,” each song felt like a revelation.

In the end, Nick Cave, alongside Colin Greenwood delivered a performance that, when stripped back, leave an indelible mark on all who were fortunate enough to bear witness.

As the final notes of “The Carnival Is Over” faded into the night, it was clear that this was more than just a concert – it was an experience that would linger in our minds.

There’s a line in one of his songs: “Take as long as you need, ‘cause I’m just waiting for you.”

We’d wait a lifetime for you, Nick.

.

NICK CAVE / Photo – @mattyoungpics

.

Check out Matt Young’s (@mattyoungpics) full gallery of this event HERE

.

NICK CAVE / Photo – @mattyoungpics

.

Follow NICK CAVE
Website – Facebook 

.

NICK CAVE / Photo – @mattyoungpics

.

Press Release 3rd February 2024 (below) HERE

.

.

AMNPLIFY – DB