Pulp’s Epic Return at La Route du Rock: Our Experience!

Jarvis Cocker and his band recently made a striking return to France at the La Route du Rock festival in Saint-Malo, marking their first performance in the country since 2012. The show was intense and left a lasting impression, solidifying their place in the realm of pop music.

The summer of 2025 seemed to echo the summer of 1995, a time when Britpop reigned supreme across the globe. While Liam Gallagher churns out Oasis classics to packed stadiums, there’s another contender worth rooting for – Pulp. The Sheffield band, known for their unique and sophisticated style, released their first album since 2001 titled “More” in June. Their tour finally reached France on Friday, August 15, with an exhilarating ninety-minute performance at La Route du Rock.

This event marked Pulp’s first visit to France since their takeover of Olympia in 2012 for the Inrocks Festival. While that moment was nostalgically beautiful, it was anchored in the past. However, with their latest tour featuring new songs, Pulp has ushered in a new era of their music, captivating audiences with a fresh and rejuvenated sound.

During their performance at La Route du Rock, Pulp kicked off with iconic tracks like “Sorted for E’s and Wizz” and “Disco 2000,” before delving into rarer gems like “Sunrise” and “O.U. (Gone, gone).” The crowd was transported through time as Jarvis Cocker, the band’s charismatic frontman, reminded everyone of their last performance in Saint-Malo back in 2001. While nostalgia lingered in the air, it was swiftly overtaken by a sense of timeless elegance and subtle melancholy, culminating in an emotional rendition of “This Is Hardcore.”

Accompanied by both long-time band members and new faces, Jarvis Cocker led the band with his signature charm and quirky dance moves. Despite his age, Cocker’s energy on stage was infectious, captivating the audience with his witty storytelling and magnetic stage presence. The band’s performance exuded a sense of depth and authenticity, showcasing their evolution and renewed passion for their craft.

Pulp’s setlist at La Route du Rock was a perfect blend of old favorites like “Do You Remember the First Time,” “Babies,” and “Acrylic Afternoons,” alongside newer tracks that highlighted Cocker’s growth as a vocalist and storyteller. The crowd was particularly moved by “Farmers Market,” a poignant tale of romantic encounters that resonated deeply with listeners.

The climax of the evening came during the performance of “Common People,” a timeless anthem that roused the audience into a frenzy of excitement and nostalgia. As the night concluded with a heartfelt rendition of “A Sunset,” Pulp left a lasting impression on all those in attendance, proving that their music transcends time and age.

Jarvis Cocker’s lighthearted interactions with the crowd and humorous anecdotes added a touch of whimsy to the evening, further endearing him to fans. As the concert drew to a close, it was evident that Pulp’s legacy as a band of experience and innovation remains intact, leaving audiences eagerly anticipating their next visit to France.