Paolo Nutini – Caustic Love

In his third offering from the studio, Caustic Love, Scottish musician Paolo Nutini’s soulful trademark certainly stands up to the test of time. Rarely one to disappoint, Nutini’s music has only grown since his first single, Last Request. As an album Caustic Love is a delicate balance of plaintively nuanced lyrics and funk melodies. Nutini’s work is testament to the fact that musicians do not have to undergo some image overhaul in order to prevent their music from becoming stagnant, that growth does not necessarily mean reinvention.

Kicking off with Scream (Funk My Life Up,) the lead single from the album really sets the tone for the entire record (cryptically, it’s pretty funky). Fashion, the only collaborative track on the album featuring Janelle Monae, seems somewhat out of character yet still works within the album, and is certainly an intelligent pairing of artists.

There are one or two songs, like Looking for Something and Numpty, that aren’t particularly striking as standalone tracks, but are right at home within the album (lest we forget that songs can be something other than dancefloor anthems or balladic tales). Perhaps the most interesting track, Cherry Blossom is one to remember, including distinct hints of Hendrix, particularly when followed with the barbershop tones of Someone Like You.

With a voice reminiscent of that of the late great Jeff Buckley, Nutini’s sound lends itself seamlessly to his intelligent, yet never overblown lyrics. Caustic Love is a treat of an album for existing and new fans alike, phenomenally blending current and vintage musical eras. If you haven’t listened yet, you probably ought to.

 

Phoebe Person 

Caustic Love is released on 14^th April 2014. For further information or or to order the album visit Paolo Nutini’s website here.

Watch the video for Scream (Funk My Life Up) here: