In an age where most of his contemporaries allow themselves to be drawn into shiny but soulless pop offerings, Nutini has shown the music industry the finger and gone his own way.
You'd be hard-pressed to remember that this Scottish singer is still just 22 years old. His voice calls to mind the greats of the past era — Cat Stevens and Johnny Cash are the first to spring to mind. He's husky, he's upbeat, he's soulful, he's tortured, he's hopeful… he's a pure vocal gem.
Nutini has matured as an artist since the release of his debut 'The Streets', and hardcore fans of that album's sound are likely to be disappointed by this new one.
Their loss. 'Coming Up Easy', 'Candy' and 'Simple Things' are simply outstanding. Also keep an ear out for his 'Pencil Full of Lead' which has had critics climbing up the walls trying to figure out whether or not this jazzy experiment was a hit or miss. And say what you may, but his Bob Marley-esque '10/10' is pure reggae-formulaic fun.
My advice is to give 'Sunny Side Up' more than one listen before settling on your opinion. With such an experimental and eclectic approach, you won't fall in love with every single song. But take the time to appreciate what he's done — and look forward to where he's going to.
Not quite '10/10', but close enough.