PAOLO NUTINI // ROYAL HIGHLAND SHOWGROUNDS, EDINBURGH
PAOLO NUTINI STILL ON TOP FORM AS HE PLAY’S ONE OFF STANDALONE SUMMER SOLD-OUT SHOW AT EDINBURGH’S ROYAL HIGHLAND SHOWGROUNDS.
★★★★★ (5/5)
Paolo Nutini's performance at the Royal Highland Centre in Edinburgh on August 31st was a truly transcendent experience that showcased not only his incredible talent but also his unwavering commitment to artistic evolution.
Right from the get-go, it was clear Paolo wasn't sticking to the same old script. He's been known for his smooth soulful pop jams, but on this night, he threw a curveball by diving headfirst with his darker, rockier sound for his latest album, Late Night in the Bittersweet.
What truly set this performance apart was Paolo's daring reimagining of his beloved hits to fit his new sound. It was a courageous move that showed his dedication to pushing the boundaries of his music. Classics like Pencil Full of Lead, New Shoes and Candy were given a fresh twist, with edgier guitar riffs, menacing vocals and a more intense delivery. This transformation didn't diminish the original songs but rather added a layer of complexity and maturity.
But it wasn't just the music that underwent a transformation. The show incorporated captivating psychedelic elements that enhanced the overall experience. Swirling guitar effects, trippy keyboard textures, and hypnotic rhythms created a dreamy, atmospheric soundscape that took the audience on a journey through a psychedelic landscape. The visual aspect of the performance was equally mesmerizing. Psychedelic-inspired lighting effects, kaleidoscopic patterns, vivid colors, and projections enveloped the stage.
However what truly left everyone in awe was Paolo's vocal performance. His voice, with its astonishingly powerful range and soulful depth, was nothing short of breathtaking. He effortlessly hit every frighteningly high note and conveyed the deep emotions of his songs. Whether he was belting out an emotionally charged ballad or crooning a heartfelt tune, his vocals were a force of nature.
Paolo Nutini's incorporation of psychedelic elements, both in the music and the visuals, added an immersive dimension to his performance at the Royal Highland Centre in Edinburgh. It demonstrated his commitment to creating a unique and memorable concert experience, where music and visuals merged to create a truly transformative and otherworldly atmosphere. This artistic choice further solidified his reputation as a forward-thinking and innovative artist, pushing the boundaries of his craft.