Captivating Ryan Adams Delivers Unforgettable Performance at Astor Theatre Review
Ryan Adams delivered an unforgettable performance at the Astor Theatre on October 4, 2025, captivating the Perth audience with a mix of humor and heartfelt music. The alt-country star opened the evening by humorously lamenting the burden of his breakthrough album, Heartbreaker, as he lay flat on stage. This set the tone for a night filled with engaging stories and a stellar musical journey.
Captivating Setlist and Engaging Stories
Adams kicked off his set by performing nearly all tracks from his acclaimed 2000 album, Heartbreaker. Without a backing band, the atmosphere felt intimate. He shared personal anecdotes between songs, recounting experiences with celebrities like Keith Urban and Sam Shepard. His candidness about his life, including challenges and pivotal moments, resonated with the audience.
Reflection on Past and Present
Despite his status, Adams hasn’t shied away from discussing his past struggles. The musician has dealt with controversies, including allegations of abuse from former partners. However, on this night, he focused on connecting with his fans through humor and music.
- Opening song: “To Be Young (Is to Be Sad, Is to Be High)”
- Highlights included: “Oh My Sweet Carolina,” “Amy,” and “Sweet Lil Gal (23rd/1st)”
- Performed for three hours with witty banter and engaging stories
Overcoming Challenges
Adams, who lives with Ménière’s disease, took extra measures to ensure his performance was a success. He humorously navigated the challenges posed by flashing lights and audience interruptions, turning them into moments of laughter.
Audience Engagement
His rapport with the crowd was remarkable, especially when he invited them to participate in the show. He even joked about attendees leaving their seats to get drinks, welcoming their contributions with open arms. The lively atmosphere contributed to an overall feeling of camaraderie.
A Memorable Conclusion
As the night unfolded, Adams decided to skip a full intermission due to his eagerness to keep the energy flowing. He dedicated the closing track, “Come Pick Me Up,” to his fans, leaving them singing along enthusiastically. Despite running over the venue’s curfew, the audience was left wanting more, a testament to his extraordinary showmanship.
With his health raising concerns about future performances, this night at the Astor Theatre could be one of Adams’ last in Perth. Regardless, he certainly left a lasting impression, blending captivating music and humor in a memorable live experience.
