Nick Cave, known for his intense and captivating stage presence, has been adding a surprising gem to his recent solo live sets: a heartfelt rendition of T. Rex’s iconic song, “Cosmic Dancer.” Fans in Stockholm and Amsterdam were treated to this special performance just last month, witnessing Cave’s unique take on the Marc Bolan classic during his European tour. These solo performances offer a raw and intimate perspective on the song, distinct from what we might expect from a full band cover.
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The inclusion of “Cosmic Dancer” in Nick Cave’s repertoire also sparks anticipation for a previously announced T. Rex tribute album, curated by the late producer Hal Willner. While details remain scarce, Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds were slated to contribute a studio version to this project. It’s unclear whether this studio recording will surface, but the live performances certainly amplify the excitement surrounding Cave’s engagement with the T. Rex catalog.
Beyond the T. Rex tribute, fans are eagerly awaiting a new studio album from Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds. With his American tour concluding in mid-October, speculation is rife about a potential release date. Could we see a new album drop in November or December, or will it be pushed to 2020? Reports are conflicting, with some suggesting the album is complete and others indicating ongoing work. The last studio album, Skeleton Tree, released in 2016, feels like a distant memory, and Push The Sky Away from 2013 further emphasizes the growing gap between Bad Seeds albums.
Despite the relative scarcity of Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds albums in the 2010s – only two in total – Cave has been remarkably productive. This period has seen the release of six Nick Cave & Warren Ellis soundtracks, the book The Sick Bag Song, and acclaimed documentaries such as 20,000 Days On Earth and One More Time With Feeling, alongside extensive touring. This prolific output might explain the longer intervals between Bad Seeds albums, but it also underscores Cave’s relentless creativity.
In the meantime, these live renditions of “Cosmic Dancer” offer a tantalizing glimpse into Nick Cave’s musical influences and provide a fresh appreciation for Marc Bolan’s songwriting genius. For those unfamiliar with the original, here’s the T. Rex classic “Cosmic Dancer” from their 1971 album Electric Warrior:
