Sheffield band shines with their long-anticipated new album...
05 · 06 · 2025
Some things require patience. Take, for instance, the ideal cup of tea, which should never be rushed. Likewise, new albums from Pulp demand time. The Sheffield band famously holds the record for the longest intervals between Peel sessions—12 years, to be exact. Not to be outdone, their latest album ‘More’ marks their first full-length release in 14 years. However, much like the initial comforting sip of hot tea, Pulp's distinctive blend of sounds continues to impress.
Let’s address it right away: ‘More’ is an exceptional album, a timeless, energetic celebration that honors pop's artistic roots while still carving out fresh pathways. It effectively replies to the question, ‘What should a Pulp record sound like in 2025?’ by throwing it back at us. What shouldn’t a Pulp record sound like in 2025? It shouldn't be boring, sterile, dull, or devoid of humor. Pulp skillfully navigates these boundaries.
The opening track ‘Spike Island’ has quickly become a fan favorite, a reflective take on the Stone Roses’ gathering that serves as the backdrop for Pulp’s own resurgence. Yet, there is so much more to discover here—such as the Cossack-inspired energy that drives the passionate ‘Tina,’ the powerful slap bass of ‘Slow Jam’ transitioning into a Scott Walker-esque soundscape, and the beautifully pastoral elements that flow throughout ‘Background Noise.’
Jarvis Cocker’s lyrical expertise shines brighter than ever, and ‘More’ showcases the various elements that make Pulp so enriching. It embodies that unique Pulp essence—where the familiar intertwines with the peculiar, and artistry meets mainstream appeal. Special mention must also go to James Ford’s production—an outstanding reflection of the band's robust capabilities, filled with meticulous nuances that, while small, are far from trivial.
‘Partial Eclipse’ carries a haunting quality that only Jarvis Cocker can deliver; ‘Hymn Of The North’ combines defiance with righteousness; and the closing track ‘A Sunset’ provides one of the most fitting finales you’ll find this year, perfect for motorcycle rides into the sunset, as the end credits linger in your mind.
Pulp’s first album in over a decade, ‘More’ was undoubtedly created with an understanding of the expectations set by their celebrated past. The flawless execution of this album speaks volumes about the musicians behind it; it serves both as invigorating fuel for this summer’s arena performances and as a profound artistic work. ‘More’ perfectly encapsulates what a Pulp record should embody in 2015. Ultimately, those live performances are at the forefront of our thoughts—recent single ‘Got To Have Love’ was accompanied by a video featuring dancers from the Northern Soul haven Wigan Casino, celebrating joyous abandon, and we eagerly anticipate more experiences to come.
9/10
Words: Robin Murray
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Some things require patience. For instance, achieving the ideal brew cannot be rushed. This principle applies to new albums from Pulp as well. Renowned for it, the Sheffield band maintains