 | | Paolo Nutini (pic: Andy Stubbs) |
As he takes to the stage, I realise how many fresher girls are around me, their screams confirming that he is a bit of a pop star stud. I always thought him a bit too young to be considered fanciable, but a look around confirms that I’m actually surrounded by people his own age. He is a handsome guy and, like a fine wine, will probably get better with age. As he breaks into Alloway Groove, supposedly questioning his girlfriend’s infidelity, his voice seems much older than he is. A hugely successful debut album and sell out tours must be a lot to take in and at first, he appears shy - a bit more banter wouldn’t have gone amiss. But he warms up; proudly telling us that he just found out Wayne Rooney is a fan. He seems genuinely overwhelmed to be on that stage, raising laughter that he’s ‘never met anyone from Chorley before’. It is a mutual sharing as the crowd are gradually able to understand his strong Scottish accent whispering down the microphone.  | | Paolo Nutini (pic: Andy Stubbs) |
There was even time to showcase some new tracks, including the upbeat, country track which he didn’t have a name for, so called Johnny Cash, but it was Jenny Don’t Be Hasty that was arguably the most addictive track live. Written about a real life experience of struggling with not being old enough for the girl he wants, you could see that the girls in the crowd would take him in a second. Paolo knew how to play it in an encore of the fantastic Last Request, followed by a rendition of Gnarls Barkley’s Crazy. He could do with a bit more confidence but you have to admire his innocence. Give him time to grow. Let’s not forget, he’s only 19. | 
