Paolo Nutini - Caustic Love

Caustic Love is Paolo Nutini’s first release in a whopping half-decade (remember folks, time in the ‘industry’ passes much like dog years). Not that it matters: this collection showcases a highly impressive and mature sound, of an extremely soulful persuasion.

Lead single ‘Scream (Funk My Life Up)’ is, well, very, very funky, and sets the bar high. Sexy and smouldering, it perfectly showcases that gravelly voice, reminding us what we’ve been missing. ‘Let Me Down Easy’ is a hip-swivelling ‘60s-style duet, while ‘One Day’ is achingly soulful, complete with gospel singers (who’ve accompanied Nutini at recent live shows).

There are glimpses of the playful Paolo of old – ‘Numpty’ is quirky, jaunty, and irresistibly catchy – but for the most part, the singer has found a new and exciting groove. The heartfelt, contemplative ‘Iron Sky’ displays a genuine lyrical maturity, while Prince could do a lot worse than cover the slick, funky, nay downright baby makin’ beauty of ‘Diana’. Four words people; the boy is back.