We’ve all heard about the prospect of socially distanced gigs — but Nick Cave has taken things to a new extreme.
This week, the musician will broadcast Idiot Prayer, a live performance recorded in the deserted West Hall of Alexandra Palace.
It looks as if it’s going to be a pretty special viewing experience, with Cave accompanied only by his piano among the cavernous surroundings.
Here is everything you need to know about Idiot Prayer.
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When will Idiot Prayer be aired?
The performance will be aired only once, with no pausing, rewinds or replays. The stream will begin at various times, depending on where you are in the world, but for viewers in the UK, things will get going at 8pm sharp on Thursday July 23.
How can I watch Idiot Prayer?
First of all, you’ll need a ticket. They cost £16 and can be bought from Dice. Once you’ve done that, keep an eye out for an email on Thursday with details on how to view the stream. A link to watch will also appear on your ticket in the Dice app just before the show is set to start.
What songs will be on the setlist?
Cave is keeping his setlist secret for this one, although we have been told that the concert will cover “the breadth of Cave’s career”, from his early work with the Bad Seeds and Grinderman, right up to his most recent album, Ghosteen. There will also be a few “rare” tracks “that most fans will be hearing for the first time”.
We know that Galleon Ship, a track from Ghosteen, will feature, as well a brand new song called Euthanasia, which was written around the time he recorded the 2016 album Skeleton Tree.
Who was involved with the filming?
A number of talented minds have come together to make Idiot Prayer happen. The show was filmed by cinematographer Robbie Ryan, who has previously worked on films including The Favourite, Marriage Story and American Honey. Nick Emerson — whose CV features Lady Macbeth, Emma and Greta — was in charge of editing the footage.
