Review: Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds Bring ‘Wild God’ Tour and Shifting Sound to US Northwest Stages

Spectrum Culture has published a comprehensive review covering recent North American dates on Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds’ “Wild God” tour, specifically focusing on performances on May 10, 2025, at the Theater of the Clouds in Portland, Oregon, and May 12, 2025, at The Paramount Theatre in Seattle, Washington. The review, authored by David Harris and published on May 14, 2025, provides insight into the band’s current live iteration and thematic direction.

Navigating Larger Venues

A notable aspect highlighted in the review is the experience of seeing Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds in larger venues, marking the first time some North American fans have encountered the band in an arena setting during this tour. This contrasts with Cave’s previous engagements in Portland, which included shows at more intimate venues such as the 1,500-capacity Crystal Ballroom in 2008 and the 2,776-seat Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall. The shift to venues like the Theater of the Clouds represents a significant change in scale for a portion of the band’s fanbase.

However, the transition was not without its reported challenges. According to the review, Nick Cave himself expressed dissatisfaction with the venue setup at the Theater of the Clouds in Portland, indicating potential adjustments or considerations needed for future large-scale performances on the tour.

The Band Lineup

The configuration of the Bad Seeds for these particular dates featured a lineup blending long-standing members with temporary replacements. The core of the band included the indispensable Warren Ellis, whose multi-instrumental contributions are central to the band’s sound. Jim Sclavunos was on percussion, providing rhythmic depth.

Filling in on drums for the experienced Thomas Wydler was Larry Mullins. On bass, Colin Greenwood of Radiohead fame stepped in for Martyn P. Casey. Both Wydler and Casey were absent from these performances due to health reasons. Guitar duties were handled by George Vjestica, while Carly Paradis joined the touring lineup on keyboards, adding further texture to the ensemble’s sound. This iteration of the Bad Seeds showcased the band’s adaptability and the depth of musical talent it can draw upon.

The Setlist: Blending New and Classic Tracks

The performances featured a curated selection of songs, balancing material from the new album, “Wild God,” with enduring classics from the band’s extensive back catalogue. The setlist included eight of the 23 songs from the latest album. The evening at the Theater of the Clouds reportedly opened with “Frogs,” a track from “Wild God,” setting the tone for the new material. Another new song performed was “Final Rescue Attempt.”

Alongside the new compositions, the band delivered powerful renditions of classic songs that have become staples of their live shows and fan favourites. These included the iconic “Red Right Hand,” known for its brooding atmosphere and distinctive narrative, and the intense and dramatic “The Mercy Seat.”

The mix of new and old material aimed to provide a comprehensive overview of the band’s artistic journey, demonstrating the continued evolution of their sound while honouring the legacy of their past work.

A Shifting Live Experience

The review highlights a perceptible shift in the overall live experience compared to past tours. The atmosphere during these concerts was characterized less by the intense, sometimes confrontational energy of earlier shows and more by a feeling described as a “celebration of love and survival.” This suggests a thematic evolution in the band’s performance style, potentially reflecting the lyrical and emotional core of the “Wild God” album and Cave’s recent artistic trajectory.

Audience interaction remained a key element of the show. David Harris noted a particularly engaging moment during the performance of “Into Your Arms.” Nick Cave played this song solo on piano, actively encouraging audience participation. This segment allowed for a more intimate connection with the crowd, a deliberate contrast to the larger-scale production of the full band arrangements.

The Spectrum Culture review by David Harris offers valuable perspective for fans and observers of Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds as they navigate larger venues and present their “Wild God” tour across North America. The performances on May 10, 2025, in Portland and May 12, 2025, in Seattle provided a snapshot of a band continuing to evolve, adapting its sound and live presentation while maintaining its distinctive artistic vision, despite logistical challenges at certain tour stops.