Review of Pulp’s album ‘More’ by When The Horn Blows
Jarvis Cocker and his band, Pulp, have reappeared on the music scene after a 24-year hiatus with their latest album ‘More’, which delves deep into themes of aging and reflection. Back in 1995, Cocker, then 32, invited listeners to imagine the new millennium with a mix of apprehension and curiosity in their hit album ‘Different Class’. Unlike younger Britpop stars like Liam Gallagher, Cocker had matured significantly by then, and his band, Pulp, was finally gaining the recognition it deserved after operating on the fringes for almost two decades. The band’s revival in 2023 sparked the creative writing process for ‘More’, with lead single ‘Spike Island’ capturing the quintessential Pulp sound with its infectious chorus destined for arenas and festival stages.
Following in the footsteps of previous Pulp tracks with female names, ‘Tina’ adds to the band’s storytelling legacy with its catchy chorus and whimsical lyrics. The risk-taking ‘Grown Ups’, the album’s longest song at nearly six minutes, sees Cocker exploring the anxieties of aging amidst haunting music, reflecting the futile race against time. ‘Slow Jam’ slows down the tempo, appealing for intimacy amidst the passage of time, while ‘Farmers Market’ offers a new beginning with its dreamy melodies and poetic lyrics that resonate deeply with the listener.
In ‘My Sex’, a departure from Pulp’s earlier hits, Cocker’s provocative lyrics take on a new meaning as they address the passage of time and the urgency of living life to the fullest. The album ‘More’ showcases Pulp’s evolution over the years, blending their signature sound with mature reflections on life, love, and loss. With the band’s reunion tour rekindling their creative spark, their latest album stands as a testament to their enduring legacy in the music industry.
When listening to ‘More’, fans can appreciate the progression of Pulp’s music as they navigate themes of growth, nostalgia, and introspection with a newfound depth and maturity. The album’s diverse tracks capture the essence of Pulp’s iconic sound while offering a fresh perspective on life’s ever-changing landscapes. ‘More’ is a testament to Pulp’s enduring relevance in the music scene, proving that after 24 years, their music still resonates with audiences worldwide.