Tom Odell announces forest gig

Tom Odell has announced a very special tour of the nation's forests for 2015. The exceptionally talented artist is the first act to announce multiple dates as part of Forestry Commission's Forest Live which will see him perform in seven spectacular woodland venues across England.

Released in June 2013, Tom Odell's debut album 'Long Way Down' shot straight to number one. He heard the news whilst performing on the John Peel Stage at Glastonbury that year. Described by The Telegraph as "utterly compelling", singles from the album including 'Can't Pretend', 'Hold Me' and the gargantuan 'Another Love' illustrate a song-writing maturity beyond his years.

This has resulted in his achieving the ultimate industry accolade of 'Songwriter of the Year' at the 2014 Ivor Novello Awards as well as previously winning the BRITs Critics' Choice Award for 2013. Following a succession of sold out headline tours and with 'Long Way Down' being certified gold, a packed summer of festival appearances in 2014 included V Festival, Isle of Wight and a show supporting one of his idols Neil Young at Hyde Park. Chosen to perform the soundtrack to this year's John Lewis Christmas advert, the 24-year-old has added his spine-tingling vocals to a cover of John Lennon's classic 'Real Love', generating millions of YouTube views. Tom is currently in the studio recording his new album.

Forest Live is an independent programme organised by the Forestry Commission to bring forests to new audiences.

Income generated from ticket sales is spent on protecting, improving and expanding England's forests and woodlands and increasing their value to people and wildlife. Over Forest Live's 14 year history, money raised has contributed to a wide range of projects, from wildlife conservation to making improvements for visitors.

With everything required for a great night out, including full catering and bar facilities, the gigs are renowned for their relaxed atmosphere.

Commenting on his forest gigs, Tom Odell said, "This will be a whole new experience for me. I can't wait to bring my live show to the woods and I hope to see you there."

Tom Odell Plus Guests:

Friday 19 June: Bedgebury Pinetum, near Tunbridge Wells, Kent.
Saturday 20 June: Westonbirt Arboretum, near Tetbury, Glos.
Thursday 25 June: Dalby Forest, near Pickering, N Yorks.
Friday 26 June: Sherwood Pines Forest, Edwinstowe, near Mansfield, Notts.
Saturday 4 July: Delamere Forest, Delamere, Cheshire.
Sunday 5 July: Thetford Forest, near Brandon, Suffolk.
Sunday 12 July: Cannock Chase Forest, near Rugeley, Staffs.

Tickets £34.50 (plus £3.45 booking fee) go on sale from 9.00am Friday 19 December from Forestry Commission Box Office 03000 680400 or buy online: forestry.gov.uk/music.

tomodell.com
forestry.gov.uk/music