LIVE REVIEW: Tom Odell

Rising star Tom Odell has had quite a year, having his debut album Long Way Down rank at number 1 in UK charts (alongside the Deluxe Edition which came in at number 2), performing on The Voice and X Factor finals, modelling for Topman’s new range of clothes and touring North America. Now the newly acclaimed artist is breaking more ground. His sold out UK tour came to a close at the O2 Shepherd’s Bush Empire last night. Tom and his band took to the stage and had a storm on their final night. They managed to summon energy for one last time and ignite a fire among the crowd.

Shepherds Bush Empire, London. Tonight! who's excited?
— Tom Odell (@tompeterodell) October 22, 2013

A very stripped back set (pictured Max Goff, Odell's guitarist) 

His new single “Grow Old With Me” opened the show. Despite his stripped back set consisting of a cello, guitars and a miniscule snare drum (think Mumford and Sons), his surging vocals and swift piano skills created a simplified, smoother sound. It worked pretty well. The song’s climax was rather abrupt with the snare drum, bass and additional vocal harmonies being introduced, creating a soulful tidal wave. You couldn't hear a pin drop amongst the crowd, it was deathly quiet, all eyes on the frontman as he sang his heartfelt plea. Now, that’s how you open a show.

His decision not to go full on guns ablazing with various instrumental accompaniments was wise, as the small set was far more intimate. We realise his greatest assets are his raw voice and piano, the rest of the instrumental arrangements are the icing atop the musical cake. There is plenty of interaction between Tom and his band as he whispers private jokes. We want in!

Odell continues with his number 1 hit and crowd pleaser “Another Love”. Immediately after the first set of chords, the applause and screams are thunderous. The emotion is almost palpable as he pounds and thrashes on the piano. “I’ll use my voice, I’ll be so fucking rude”, he sings harshly, giving us the impression that Tom is more than just a heartbroken youth. “Words they always win, but I know I’ll lose”.

His next song, “Can’t Pretend” is received just as well. His vocal ability is tactful as he starts off eerily soft. And before long, he is full on belting notes, making the performance more convincing and intense.

To close he sings a cover of Etta James’ “I Just Wanna Make Love To You”, before kicking his piano stool and mic over and pounding an improvisation on the piano.

 Although a very chilling, yet enjoyable performance, Odell’s tendency to strike odd chords repetitively is costly. The manner in which he performed became a hindrance as he quite literally pummelled the grand piano, whic was at times hard to watch. That being said, Tom has potential and time to improve his performing techniques. No doubt he’ll be doing great things in 2014.

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