Tom Odell at Alexandra Palace

In an age dominated by scenes and spectacles, Tom Odell’s decade-long commitment to artistry stands out as a rare act of humility. This genuine passion for the craft is evident in how, even at his biggest headline show to date, as part of Alexandra Palace’s 2024 Summer Season, he delivers a deeply sincere performance free from any trace of egotism or self-importance.

The crowd’s cheers fill the summer air the second he takes the stage – a modest setting against the breathtaking backdrop of Alexandra Palace’s sloping, tree-lined hills overlooking London. The grand piano seems to hold as central a role as Odell himself, with the LED displays – featuring black-and-white close-ups reminiscent of classic films – highlighting his rapt attention to its keys. In fact, Odell pays little notice to the cameras – except when he shares his love for performing in London, telling the animated audience that there’s nowhere he would rather be.

Having previously expressed a desire for fans to “see the album rather than [him]”, Odell ensures that his songs take centre stage in the 90-minute set. His performance of the poignant, piano-driven Loving You Will Be the Death of Me, a somewhat overlooked track from Odell’s latest album Black Friday, finishes to explosive applause. The intense and unfiltered chords of his piano breathe life into the song’s vulnerable lyrical imagery of passing time and seemingly mundane moments, elevating the lines from raw emotion to introspection. The expansive, open-air setting, complete with a vantage view of the city skyline, allows for the song’s orchestral chords and Odell’s soulful vocals to soar, creating an intimate yet grand atmosphere.

Proving that his discography doesn’t fall into the trappings of eras, he follows with early 2010s hits Can’t Pretend and Magnetised, allowing the powerful, piano-driven melodies to harmonise with the venue’s natural beauty as his powerful crescendo reverberates through the endless summer evening.

As the setting sun engulfs the venue in a warm, golden glow, the night becomes even more enchanting, with Odell lighting up both the stage and the sky by the end of his gig his set with Another Love, his first major hit from his debut studio album from over a decade ago. With the same raw expression of heartbreak as his show opener, the love song-turned-protest anthem proves that while his newer releases have acquired a weathered, introspective quality, this sincere and straightforward composition is timeless, transcending traditional categorisations.

Christina Yang
Photos: Ciara McMullan

For further information and future events visit Tom Odell’s website here.

Watch the video for the single Loving You Will Be the Death of Me here: