Pulp – ‘More’ Review: Older, Wiser, and Still a Different Class

An insightful look at Pulp’s ‘More’ reveals the band’s matured brilliance and enduring charm, proving they’re still a different class after all these years.

The Return of Pulp: A Matured Comeback

“I was born to perform, it’s a calling,” Jarvis Cocker declares on Pulp’s comeback single, ‘Spike Island’. But soon, instead of grandiosity, he humbly reduces himself from an iconic frontman, recognized even by silhouette, to “shouting and pointing.” That blend of glam bravado with Sheffield’s down-to-earth charm is what has always made Pulp stand out.

Having been around for a while certainly adds an edge. When Pulp’s fourth album, His N’ Hers, brought them a whiff of success over a decade into their career, Jarvis Cocker was already in his thirties. Their 1995 masterpiece, Different Class, propelled them to the forefront of Britpop, solidifying their status as British music icons.

‘More’: Three Decades Later and Still Going Strong

Now, 30 years later, Pulp releases More, their first album in 24 years and the first since the passing of bassist Steve Mackey. On the track ‘Grown Ups’, Cocker reflects on aging with a cheeky twist: “I am not ageing – no, I am just ripening.” From the youthful rocket ship of Camden to the more settled Hackney, Cocker navigates the stress of “wrinkles instead of acne,” aiming for “one final blaze of glory.” The album carries that classic Pulp vibe, seasoned with the wisdom of time.

Evolving Soundscapes and Themes

The indie disco energy of earlier days shifts on More to a more intimate, Sunday-afternoon romance feel, especially on the Scott Walker-inspired ‘Farmers Market’. The sultry and candid ‘My Sex’ delivers Cocker’s androgynous perspective with a confident, self-aware flair: “I haven’t got an agenda, I haven’t even got a gender.” This refreshing honesty is a testament to how the band has grown without losing their essence.

Classic Pulp Quirkiness with a Modern Twist

No Pulp album would be complete without a dose of wonky-pop brilliance. Tracks like ‘Spike Island’ would have lit up their iconic Glastonbury ‘95 set, while ‘Got To Have Love’ channels the jazz-hands energy reminiscent of ‘F.E.E.L.I.N.G.C.A.L.L.E.D.L.O.V.E’. The poignant ‘Tina’ mixes kitchen-sink longing with a Burt Bacharach-style romp, and ‘Slow Jam’ grooves with sex-funk vibes perfect for the indie-noir tone of This Is Hardcore.

Emotional Depth and Local Roots

Emotional highlights include ‘Background Noise’, which evokes the swooning feel of a ‘Glory Days’ encore, and the stirring ‘Hymn Of The North’, an homage to Sheffield’s Steel City spirit and a reminder to never forget your roots. This album, quite simply, lives up to its name—More indeed.

A Rich, Lush Production with Authenticity

With James Ford’s masterful production enveloping the album in synths and strings, More feels alive and omnipresent. Much like Blur’s The Ballad Of Darren or Suede’s recent post-reunion masterpieces, Pulp retains their original flair while boldly embracing middle age. Jarvis Cocker poignantly closes the album with ‘A Sunset’, a cinematic reminder that all things end, urging us to cherish the time we have left.

“I am not ageing – no, I am just ripening.”
— Jarvis Cocker

Album Details

• Record label: Rough Trade
• Release date: June 6, 2025

Final Thoughts

Pulp’s More is a stunning testament to longevity in music, blending the wisdom of age with the spark that made them legends in the first place. The band proves that while time shapes us, it doesn’t dull their unique charm or musical ingenuity. So, what’s your favorite track from More? Does it remind you of Pulp’s glory days, or does it paint a fresh canvas of sound?

FAQs

• How long has it been since Pulp released a new album?
  It’s been 24 years since Pulp’s last album before ‘More’.
• Who produced the album ‘More’?
  James Ford produced the album, known for bringing vibrant, lush sounds.
• What themes does ‘More’ explore?
  The album explores aging, self-acceptance, relationships, and roots.
• Is ‘More’ similar to Pulp’s classic Britpop sound?
  It retains Pulp’s unique style but with mature themes and richer production.
• Are there standout tracks recommended for new listeners?
  ‘Spike Island’, ‘My Sex’, and ‘Hymn Of The North’ are great starting points.

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