Tom Odell makes heart-warming performance at Bedgebury Pinetum

Tom Odell in the Forests 2015

Friday 19th June to Sunday 12th July 2015
seven forests around the UK, England
£37.95 (including booking fee)

Outside gigs always feel a bit special. This was my first visit to Bedgebury Pinetum and I must admit I was quite taken with the place. It felt quite magical and had a sense of Narnia about it. The grounds have been set out like a mini festival with food stalls all around. There is a great family atmosphere, Mums and dads with their children, picnics aplenty.

The first support act is Sheffield newcomer Alfie Connor. His sound is a blend of R&B, pop, and rock. His set goes down rather well and the crowd respond with cheers and claps.

Rae Morris: Tom Odell in the Forests 2015

Second up is Rae Morris hailing from Blackpool and whose debut album has been released to critical acclaim. Her voice is beautiful and has an ethereal quality to it. You get a feeling you are seeing a star in the making.

Tom Odell takes to the stage to loud cheers and applause. His debut album Long Way Down went to number one in 2013 and he also won the BRITSCritics' Choice Award in the same year. Whilst his fellow award winners: Ellie Golding, Sam Smith etc have gone on to greatness, Tom has never achieved the same level of success, perhaps unfairly.

Tom is very cheerful in demeanour, he laughs along with the crowd, is energetic and lively. However, his singing style is very emotional and he puts his heart and soul into every word.

Tom has a very competent drummer on board. It’s none over than Andy Burrows formerly of Razorlight and Snowdog fame. His drumming is very impressive and you get the feeling he is holding back. Still, he seemed to be also having a great time.

There is actually a moment when you could hear a pin drop when Tom belts out ‘Another love’ (one of his debut and most recognizable tracks). But the whole world stops when he gives his rendition of ‘real love’ made famous from the John Lewis ad. ‘Oh, it’s the penguin song’ I overhear one the attendee’s state. Alas, I think that this beautiful version of the John Lennon classic will always be quoted as such.

All in all a beautiful, heart-warming performance/concert. I genuinely hope that Tom eventually get the success he truly deserves.