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It might seem like forever since Paolo Nutuni's pencil was full of lead but he's back and better than ever. This time he comes to terms with a ten year relationship falling to pieces. Caustic Love is his most adventurous record to date but at just twenty seven there’s a lot of life left for this Scot whose croaky voice screams with agony and whose emotions are still pretty raw.
This is worlds away from anything Paolo has done before whilst the content remains just as heartfelt/passionate/emotive he takes you on a journey, vividly painting a picture of blue skies turning grey, then, occasionally rain being replaced by sunshine. Albeit, that is pretty rare.
There is unexpected synth intro on opener 'Scream', a track that teeters from intimate to bold and brash as horns and gospel singers embrace their duties, reintroducing Mr Nutuni with a record full of surprises. The most glorious being on 'Fashion', where a collaboration with the crazy-good Janelle Monae. It shouldn't work but it does, brilliantly.
Caustic Love embodies soul, authentically, and this side of Paolo strikes most potently on 'Let Me Down Easily' whilst the subdued and expressive moments are constantly fed through so delicately that it might pass you by the first time around. That is what makes this coming-of-age record such an enjoyable listen, as it delivers immediate tunes and slow burners equally.
'Numpty' has a vintage vibe running through it as the smooth saxophones rub shoulders with the gritty vocals delivering earnest yet poignant lyrics, clearly documenting that word all men fear, 'commitment'. Paolo’s storytelling charm is as sweet as ever, you can't help but fall for his honesty on 'Better Man', followed by the lethargic and intensity of 'Iron Sky' which implodes with passion.
You could say this is an artist confused but he is just putting all his cards on the table, they just happen to be aces
