Having loved the first offerings of British indie newcomer Tom Odell, an artist featured on the BBC Sound of 2013 list and the first male artist to win the Brits Critics Choice Award I had high hopes for his newest single ‘Hold Me’.
A faster tempo than tracks featured on his debut EP such as ‘Can’t Pretend’ and ‘Another Love’, this latest offering kicks off with an impassioned shouting of ‘1, 2, 3, 4!’, before Odell launches into a piano-bashing opening sequence. Although his soulful, endearing voice is somewhat lost in the howled vocals of each verse, there is no doubt that this 22-year old’s individuality shines through; it’s clear why he has been tipped so highly in recent months.
Perhaps it is all this acclaim which has caused Odell to step out of his comfort zone. The choruses are catchy and the rockier pace of the anthem is reminiscent of a slightly deranged Chris Martin, but fans of Odell’s more slow-paced songs might be slightly disappointed with his latest offering.
Having said that, after the third listen I became more accustomed to the upbeat tune and as it softens out towards the end, ‘Hold Me’ continues to show off Odell’s superior song-writing abilities.
7/10
