Pulp Set for Intimate Gigs Celebrating New Album 'More' in London

Table of Contents

1. Key Highlights
2. Introduction
3. The New Album: More
4. The London Gigs
5. Ticketing and Accessibility
6. The Legacy of Pulp
7. Looking Forward: What’s Next for Pulp?
8. FAQ

Key Highlights

• Pulp, the iconic Britpop band led by Jarvis Cocker, will perform two special intimate shows in London next month.
• The gigs, celebrating their upcoming album More, will be recorded for BBC Radio and broadcasted later.
• The band’s return marks their first new material in over 24 years, following their reunion in 2023.

Introduction

When was the last time a band sent ripples through the music world with their return after more than two decades? For fans of Pulp, that moment is just on the horizon. The beloved Britpop band, known for classics like "Common People," announces two intimate gigs in London as part of their promotional effort for their new album, More. This album, their first since We Love Life in 2001, marks a significant chapter in the band’s storied history amid a growing wave of nostalgia for the Britpop era. Set to be recorded for BBC Radio, these performances not only celebrate new work but evoke the band's vibrant past while inviting a new generation of listeners to discover their incisive storytelling through music.

The New Album: More

Pulp's announcement of More follows a whirlwind of activity that began with the band's reunion tour in 2023. Fans were treated to a taste of new material as Pulp performed unreleased tracks like "Spike Island" and "Farmer’s Market" at various festival appearances. These previews set the stage for a renewed excitement surrounding the band and the music industry at large. The upcoming album promises to blend the mature reflections of Cocker’s lyrical prowess with the lively, familiar sounds that fans have loved over the years.

Album Highlights:

• More showcases a hybrid of "mature and frothy pop music,” according to guitarist Mark Webber, spotlighting both nostalgia and a fresh perspective.
• The single "Spike Island," which recently debuted, has been received with enthusiastic praise from fans and critics alike, hinting at a successful transition into this new era.

Jarvis Cocker’s Vision

Cocker’s articulate lyrics often reflect social commentary and personal experiences, maintaining relevance over years. During the announcement, he stated: “The record has been done for a while, and waiting has felt like a lifetime. Playing live again revived not just the songs, but also the spirit of the band.” This return is a testament to the ageless nature of their music and the band’s evolution since their original formation in the 1980s.

The London Gigs

Scheduled for May 2025, the intimate performances will take place at the esteemed BBC Radio Theatre — a venue that embodies the spirit of live music while providing an intimate setting for artists and audiences alike.

Performance Details:

• BBC 6 Music Session: Scheduled for May 29, this show will air on Nick Grimshaw's morning program and include interviews discussing the new material.
• Radio 2 In Concert: Set for May 7, this live performance will be broadcast on Jo Whiley’s show, followed by additional tracks airing on Scott Mills' Breakfast Show.

The unique structure of these events parallels the successful promotional strategy used by other prominent bands like The Cure, showcasing the music in a way that merges both older and newer fans.

Ticketing and Accessibility

In anticipation of the demand surrounding the events, tickets will be distributed via a random ballot system, emphasizing accessibility for both local and nationwide fans. Half of the tickets will be allocated for Greater London addresses while the rest will be open to applicants from across the UK.

Key Information for Fans:

• Application Deadline: Tickets can be requested until April 22.
• Maximum Tickets: Each applicant may request up to two tickets to the performance.
• Broadcast Timing: The 6 Music performance will be available on BBC iPlayer for a month following its air date.

The Legacy of Pulp

Established during the economic and cultural upheaval of the late 1980s and early 1990s, Pulp quickly distinguished themselves with their distinctive blend of pop melodies and vivid storytelling. Spearheaded by Cocker's charismatic stage presence, their music often explores themes of class, love, and identity. The success of Pulp during the Britpop era, alongside contemporaries like Oasis and Blur, played a vital role in the genre's proliferation, leaving a profound mark on British music.

Britpop: A Cultural Movement

Britpop was not just a musical style but a cultural movement reflecting youth identity and a reaction against the grunge and alternative scenes from the States. With a revival in popularity and new audiences discovering the genre, Pulp’s return is perfectly timed. Their lyrical themes, which often draw from their experiences in Sheffield and the social issues of the time, remain accessible yet resonant in today’s sociopolitical landscape.

Looking Forward: What’s Next for Pulp?

Beyond the intimate gigs, Pulp has plans for an expansive 2025 tour that will bring them to festival stages and arenas across the UK and Europe. Highlights include returning home for a major performance at Tramlines Festival, promising to showcase a mix of classic hits and new material to a sea of enthusiastic fans.

Implications for Music and Culture

The return of Pulp signals a moment of reflection for music in general — will the trend encourage other iconic bands to return to their roots or explore new avenues? With audiences eager for both nostalgia and innovation, acts like Pulp demonstrate that the future of music can simultaneously celebrate the past while forging ahead into new territories.

FAQ

How can I apply for tickets to Pulp’s London gigs?

Tickets for the performances can be applied for through the official BBC website until April 22, after which a random draw will determine who receives the tickets.

When will Pulp's new album More be released?

More is set to release shortly after the gigs, capitalizing on the excitement generated by the live performances.

What songs will Pulp perform during the gigs?

While specific setlists have not been announced, fans can expect a mix of new tracks from More along with beloved classics from their rich discography.

How has the Britpop era influenced contemporary music?

Britpop’s distinct sound and themes have influenced a resurgence in interest in British musical identity, empowering new bands to explore similar themes reflective of current cultural dialogues.

Will the performances be available for streaming?

Yes, the performances will be recorded and broadcast on BBC Radio and will also be available on BBC iPlayer.

As Pulp returns to the stage with a fresh album and a commitment to their roots, they invite both longtime fans and newcomers to relish in the band’s illustrious history while experiencing their evolving musical landscape. The upcoming London shows promise not just a celebration of their past but a showcase for their bright future in music.