Tom Odell takes the Black Friday Tour to Manchester - Review

Singer-songwriter Tom Odell and band took to the O2 Apollo in Manchester, for an evening of emotive ballads and powerful, poignant instrumentals.

In support of his latest album - ‘Black Friday’, Odell opened the show with new tracks ‘Answer Phone’, ‘The End’ and the popular title track.

Tom Odell and band performing at O2 Apollo Manchester - Image by Natasha Judge

With the nature of many of Odell’s tracks being that of lost love and reflection - the setlist was seemingly planned with this in mind. Moments of acoustic emotion were followed by upbeat tracks and instrumentals throughout, as especially prevalent within the transitions of tracks ‘Long Way Down’ and ‘Grow Old With Me’. 

Odell kept the crowd encapsulated and adoringly addressed them “Oh, Manchester” and whilst grinning, proclaimed it was one of his favourite venues to perform in. 

The accompanying band truly completed the show, in particular the saxophonist was especially memorable as they further livened up the Apollo. 

Just before the encore, Odell addressed the crowd, standing on his piano, and got the entire venue standing and chanting to hit debut album hit - ‘Hold Me’. 

Closing the show with fan favourite ‘Another Love’, the crowd erupted into song - with Odell’s tracks clearly being therapeutic for many.

The evening was opened by support from singer and violinist - Sophia Isella, who returned to the stage to sing ‘Butterflies’ with Tom midway through the show. 

Notably, the staging was a definite highlight - alongside the talented performances from all the musicians, with the lighting and collapsing curtains adding to the overall ambience. 

This was especially prevalent within performances of tracks ‘Black Friday’ and ‘Can’t Pretend’ which in turn also demonstrated the applaudable vocal range of Odell. 

Tom Odell’s next tour stops are in Wolverhampton, London, before he embarks on the rest of the Europe Leg of the Black Friday Tour. Further information can be found here.