What is it about Scotland? It seems that any female singer-songwriter born north of Hadrian’s Wall comes equipped with extraordinary talent. Scotland consistently produces standout musicians, and Nina Nesbitt is no exception. With her second album on the horizon, Nesbitt has found a unique edge to stand out in the crowded singer-songwriter scene.
Performing live at Sound Control in Manchester, Nina’s setlist leaned heavily on her recent work since her 2012 debut album, Peroxide. It was clear from the very first note that Nina is not the same artist she was when she first emerged. Her sound has matured, with a more diverse range of influences, and her lyrics now carry an emotional weight that resonates deeply with her audience.
That doesn’t mean she’s left her earlier music behind. Fan favorites like Stay Out and The Apple Tree made an appearance, but their folky, Celtic undertones have since evolved into more expansive, synth-driven soundscapes. Nina’s voice effortlessly weaves between these new textures, and her fans have embraced her evolution with open arms. Tracks like The Best You Had, Chewing Gum, and Loyal (which gives a nod to Eric Clapton’s Layla) were standout moments of the night, met with an enthusiastic response from the packed Manchester crowd.
One of the highlights of the night was The Moments I’m Missing, where Nina was joined onstage by her tour support act, Goody Grace. This and tracks like Ontario gave Nina the opportunity to showcase the full extent of her vocal range, impressing everyone in the intimate venue.
Nina’s new songs are a testament to her growth as an artist. Each track feels like a raw, personal outpouring, with themes of heartbreak, jealousy, and loss resonating throughout the set. What makes Nina stand out is her ability to tackle these emotionally heavy subjects with a catchy, polished pop sensibility. She’s not wallowing in the past; instead, her songs reflect a sense of hope and optimism for the future.
The intimate setting of Sound Control allowed Nina to connect deeply with her audience, who hung on her every word. Her skilled lyricism and knack for crafting memorable choruses ensure that her songs linger long after the set ends. With her growing success, whether writing for herself or collaborating with other artists, it’s clear that Nina Nesbitt has cemented her place in the indie-pop scene.
As Scotland continues to produce talented singer-songwriters, Nina Nesbitt has emerged as one of its brightest stars. With her upcoming album, she’s poised to take the next step in her career, and it’s safe to say we’ll be hearing much more from her in the years to come.
