Performing an unexpected set for crowds on Friday (7.31) at 11am, Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds made a surprise appearance on the roof of Brighton’s legendary independent record shop, Resident Records,
Ahead of their headline performance at Preston Park, London, the iconic group opened with ‘Train Long Suffering’ the first time the track had been performed in Brighton since 1985 at The Escape Club. And, addressing the audience filling the streets, Cave said “Thank you. F***ing Brighton!” “What a thing to be doing.”
However short, the amended set continued with a piano adaptation of T.Rex’s ‘Cosmic Dancer.’ featuring a violin solo from Warren Ellis, followed by ‘Murder Ballads’ duet Henry Lee alongside backing singer Janet Ramus. During the performance, Cave gave a shout-out to his wife Susie and son Earl, who were watching from the edge of the balcony. The band ended the impromptu appearance with an encore performance of ‘Papa Won’t Leave You, Henry’ from Henry’s Dream.
Exciting the stage, the lead singer said “See you tonight! Thank you. Thank you, Resident records, for this – best fucking record shop in the world.”
The rooftop performance forms part of a series of events across Brighton surrounding the band’s sold-out, UK-exclusive headline show at Preston Park on Friday 31 July 2026, featuring support from The Flaming Lips, English Teacher, Cate Le Bon, and Warmduscher.
From July 30 to August 2, Resident Records is hosting a venue takeover featuring an exclusive merchandise pop-up, catalogue offers, and a post box for letters to The Red Hand Files. Additionally, Duke of York’s Picturehouse is screening five films selected by Cave across the weekend, while visitors arriving at Brighton Station will hear specially recorded station announcements voiced by the frontman.
“I am thrilled beyond words to return to my beloved Brighton with The Bad Seeds to play Preston Park.” “It’s a homecoming!” added Nick Cave.
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Author: Al Dente
Photo: Quejaytee