Paolo Nutini Warms Up Philly

It Happened Last Night

PHILADELPHIA: The Scottish singer/songwriter proves why he's huge in the U.K.

By Spin Staff 02.05.07 4:00 AM

With the sweltering heat boiling up inside Philadelphia's World Cafe Live, showgoers forgot it was a blustery, cold night outside, as they packed themselves to the rafters to see Paisley, Scotland's breakout heartthrob, Paolo Nutini. Despite having just turned 20, the Scottish troubadour had no problem attracting a wide range of ages, from late teens to well beyond. With help from his backing band, who provided groves that were catchy but never too slick, Nutini launched into "Alloway Grove" off his debut, These Streets. After introducing tunes in his thick brogue, the singer moved effortlessly through the excellent set, alternating between heartfelt ballads and more rousing rockers. BRETT HARRISON / PHOTOS BY ANTHONY THOMPSON

>> Listen to Paolo Nutini on Napster

We asked: What recording artist does Paolo Nutini most remind you of? COMMENT

Name: Christina Marradza
Age: 21
Hometown: Nutley, NJ
Occupation: Student
"John Mayer and a young Rod Stewart."

Name: Lindsay McQuaid
Age: 21
Hometown: Ashland, OR
Occupation: Student
"A British John Mayer."

Name: Gavin Dick
Age: 25
Hometown: Glasgow, Scotland
Occupation: Engineer
"Chris Martin."

Name: Melanie McCusker
Age: 19
Hometown: Philadelphia, PA
Occupation: Student
"John Mayer."

Name: Jami Schirey
Age: 32
Hometown: Berwyn, PA
Occupation: Photography student
"Ben Harper."

Name: May Smith
Age: 34
Hometown: Conshohocken, PA
Occupation: Physician
"Combo of James Blunt and Joe Cocker."

Name: Todd Zamostien
Age: 28
Hometown: Philadelphia, PA
Occupation: Lawyer
"John Mayer and Stevie Wonder."

Name: Jamie McGuire
Age: 25
Hometown: New Jersey
Occupation: Photographer
"He's a real mix between Lenny Kravitz, Chris Martin, and his own thing."