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Paolo Nutini - Sunny Side Up
- “Sunny Side Up” is a solid sophomore album that does indeed showcase Scottish artist Paolo Nutini’s sunnier side.
On first listen, the songs may not stand out right away, as a few did with Nutini’s debut album, “These Streets,” but when listened to from start to finish, a second time, the reason why the release of this second album seemed (to some Paolo fans) to take so long becomes apparent.
The songs on “These Streets” were all penned before Nutini turned 18, and while his rich, expressive voice reflected maturity beyond his years, it’s the lyrics and harmonies on “Sunny Side Up” that reveal even greater depth and sophistication.
The sounds on the album cover a variety of genres. The first single, “Candy,” is folksy with a bit of a country twang, “Coming Up Easy” has a Motown feel and the album opener, “10/10,” features ska-like brass beats.
But it’s not only the instrumentals that reach new levels on “Sunny Side Up.” Nutini’s vocal range is on full display. On “High Hopes,” an upbeat, soulful track, Nutini hits some high notes while “Chamber Music” showcases his Cat Stevens-esque deep vibrato.
Another thing that sets this album apart from “These Streets” is the balance and variety of the songs. The song tempos vary as much as the musical styles do.
On “These Streets,” Nutini proved how good his faster-paced songs can be with “Jenny Don’t Be Hasty” and “New Shoes.” Thankfully, there are more of them on “Sunny Side Up.” Two of these toe-tapping tunes are the bonus tracks on the bonus track version of the album: “Smokey Joe’s Café” and “Funky Cigarette.” They are just as enjoyable as the other tracks and help complete the album’s overall sunny disposition.
Reviewer: Monica Burton
new
Reviewer's Rating: 8.5
Reader's Rating: 10.00
Reader's Votes: 1
Added: 10-Aug-2009
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