TOM ODELL AT IRVING PLAZA IN NEW YORK CITY, NY
The lights went low as a single white beam illuminated the piano when Tom Odell appeared on stage and took a seat. His fingers danced around the keys opening with “Jubilee Road”. Irving Plaza’s Tuesday crowd was ready to be dazzled by this English singer-songwriter at the fifth stop of his North American Jubilee Road Tour.
Cheers echoed behind me as Tom stood up by the crowd, edging them on to cheer louder and louder giving the show such an energetic start. Lights flickered from left to right pulsing along to the beat of “Still Getting Used to Being On My Own”. Then we heard Tom’s genuine admiration for the talented band supporting him. “Ladies and gentlemen, you made a wise choice coming to see us tonight, a great fucking choice and I’ll tell you why. Because the greatest musicians have joined me on stage.” Tom picked up his stool, threw it across the stage, and started grooving to the tune of I Know.
The night wouldn’t be complete without fan favorites “Magnetised”, “Grow Old with Me”, “Concrete”, and “Entertainment”. I honestly heard the crowd just a tad more than Tom for these! He even brought a guest all the way from Nashville on stage to sing two unreleased songs for us. And who could forget Tom’s lovely cover of New York State of Mind, fitting for a night like this one.
Suddenly, Tom disappeared into the audience and made his was to the center of the crowd! He had everyone get low, crouching to the floor before asking those nearby for a singer. The mic was handed to a Iuliia Usacheva who’s angelic voice belted out the lyrics to “Hold Me”. It was her moment to shine. She hugged Tom, whispering something in his ear. I’ve never seen a moment so pure. Tom serenaded the rest of the audience, kissed Iuliia’s forehead, and traveled back to the stage closing with “Another Love”.
Whether it be while playing the keys, interacting with the crowd, or singing with such passion, Tom Odell makes a room shine so bright. “I’ll play here forever, New York. I love this city so much, thank you to my audience, I love you.” Please do play here forever Tom, we’ll welcome you back with open arms each time.