After a long hiatus, the iconic Sheffield band Pulp is back and reminding everyone why they were one of the most unique voices in Britpop.
While the 90s music scene was mostly ruled by serious, grungy American bands, Pulp stood out with their witty, eccentric style and sharp lyrics.
Now, nearly three decades later, they’re returning with new music that blends nostalgia with grown-up confidence.
From Indie Outsiders to Britpop Legends
Back in the 90s, Pulp’s frontman Jarvis Cocker was the cheeky, outspoken face of the band.
Their breakthrough came with the 1994 album His ‘n’ Hers, which earned them their first Top Ten spot in the UK charts.
Two years later, Jarvis made headlines when he famously danced onstage during Michael Jackson’s BRIT Awards performance—a moment that perfectly captured Pulp’s rebellious spirit.
New Album More: A Mature Take on Classic Sounds
Their latest album More, dropping on June 6, is their first new record in 24 years.
Jarvis, now 61, teams up again with longtime bandmates Candida Doyle (keyboards), Mark Webber (guitar), and Nick Banks (drums) to deliver a sound that’s true to their disco-infused, keyboard-heavy roots but with a more polished, mature edge.
The album kicks off with Spike Island, a track inspired by a legendary Stone Roses gig but also deeply personal, reflecting on why Jarvis paused Pulp in 2001 and then brought them back together in 2011 and 2023.
Jarvis sings, “I was born to perform, it’s a calling,” capturing the passion that drives him to keep making music.
Lyrical Wit Meets Life’s Realities
Throughout the album, Jarvis’ clever lyrics shine. Songs like Tina tell stories of unrequited love with a stalker-ish twist, inspired by everyday encounters.
Farmers Market dives into the quirks of middle-aged romance, while Grown Ups humorously explores the shift from youthful worries to adult concerns about wrinkles instead of acne.
Though the slower ballads Slow Jam and Partial Eclipse aren’t as strong, the album picks up again with upbeat tracks like Got To Have Love, which is expected to be a crowd favorite on their upcoming UK arena tour.
A Heartfelt Homage to Sheffield
One of the standout moments on More is The Hymn Of The North, a tribute to Sheffield’s resilience despite tough economic times.
Jarvis sings warmly about the “Northern lights” guiding people home, wrapping up the album with a sense of pride and belonging.
Notably, Jarvis confirmed that no AI was involved in creating the album, preserving the uniquely human and quirky spirit of Pulp’s music.
What’s Next for Pulp and Other New Releases
Pulp will kick off their UK tour on June 7 at Glasgow’s OVO Hydro, bringing their fresh yet classic sound to fans old and new.
Meanwhile, other notable new albums this week include Matt Berninger’s introspective solo debut Get Sunk, featuring lush guitars and synths reminiscent of New Order, and Garbage’s latest Let All That We Imagine Be The Light, where Shirley Manson reflects on resilience, romance, and aging with her trademark edge.