Pulp Returns with 'More': A Less Stressful Approach to Their First Album in Over Two Decades

Table of Contents

1. Key Highlights
2. Introduction
3. Pulp’s Evolution: From Legacy to Renewal
4. A Less Stressful Recording Process
5. Musical Contributions and Collaborations
6. Connecting with Fans: The Upcoming Tour
7. Nostalgia Meets Modernity
8. The Legacy of Pulp
9. FAQ

Key Highlights

• Pulp's new album, More, releases on June 6, marking their first new music since We Love Life in 2001.
• The band adopted a new, less stressful approach to recording, ensuring all lyrics were complete before studio time.
• Frontman Jarvis Cocker shares insights on their songwriting process and potential performances for the summer tour, with an emphasis on their connection to Glastonbury.
• The album took just three weeks to record, the quickest in modern times for the band, and is dedicated to their late bassist, Steve Mackey.

Introduction

Jarvis Cocker, the iconic frontman of Britpop band Pulp, remarks how an organization can drastically alter the creative process in musical production. With no new music released since We Love Life in 2001, the anticipation surrounding their upcoming album, More, is palpable. Scheduled for release on June 6, More marks a significant reunion for the band after more than two decades. Yet, it is not only the nostalgic connection that captivates fans; Cocker and his colleagues have engaged in a fresh approach towards their recording process—one that eliminates the mental burden often associated with songwriting. In a recent conversation, he shared how the group kept their creative endeavors pressure-free, promising a new sound that embraces simplicity and spontaneity.

This article dives into the creation of More, its historical context, and the band's summer tour while exploring how their current endeavors reflect both a matured understanding of artistry and a commitment to their legacy within British music.

Pulp’s Evolution: From Legacy to Renewal

Pulp emerged in the late 1980s, climbing to the peak of Britpop in the mid-1990s with their critically acclaimed album, Different Class, and the chart-topping single "Common People." Over the years, the band has had its share of ups and downs, fluctuating from cult status to mainstream success, pairing gritty social commentary with articulate lyricism. However, after their last album in 2001, they entered a hiatus, leading many to wonder if they would ever reconvene.

While nostalgia fueled the desire for a Pulp return, it is the mechanics of modern music production that led them to rethink how they approach the studio this time. Cocker explains, “We recorded it quite quickly, and we were trying to not think about it too much. That’s what made the last couple of Pulp albums a bit of a pain.” The pressures of perfectionism that once bogged down the creative process have now been replaced by a straightforward methodology that invites transparency and authentic self-expression.

For Cocker and band, this transformation began in earnest during their 2023 tour when they debuted the new song "Hymn of the North." The excitement around this song ignited a creative surge that the band had not experienced in years, resulting in a collection of eleven tracks written throughout early 2024—a remarkable feat considering it has been almost a quarter-century since the previous studio album.

A Less Stressful Recording Process

In contrast to the earlier, more chaotic approaches to recording, the process for More was characterized by efficiency.

• Pre-Written Lyrics: Ensuring that all lyrics were finalized before stepping into the studio allowed for clarity and direction. This preparation not only minimized last-minute adjustments and stresses but also solidified the lyrical integrity of the album.
• Quick Turnaround: The album recorded in just three weeks with producer James Ford marks the quickest production time for Pulp since the early 2000s, favoring raw creativity over drawn-out deliberation.

Cocker reflects on this shift: “This is the best that we can do. We hope you enjoy the music.” This earnest plea underlines the band’s renewed commitment to producing music that resonates with both their personal experiences and broader societal themes.

Musical Contributions and Collaborations

More is not just a product of Pulp's lineup; it also showcases a collaborative spirit that aligns with the band's history of blending diverse musical influences. Cocker notes co-writing with accomplished musicians, reflecting a transitional phase where collaboration takes precedence over sole authorship.

• Richard Hawley contributed music to one song, while Jason Buckle added to another piece.
• The supporting vocals feature the Eno family, further diversifying the soundscape.
• String arrangements by Richard Jones, played by the Elysian Collective, exemplify the album's intricate layering and orchestral depth.

This collaborative approach not only honors their longstanding relationships within the industry but also enhances the stylistic evolution that More represents.

Connecting with Fans: The Upcoming Tour

Following the album's release, Pulp is set to commence a summer tour, commencing in Glasgow on June 7 and culminating in Manchester on June 21. These live performances will mark not only their reunion with fans after years apart but also their uncompromising spirit as performers who have shaped the Britpop landscape.

Their summer dates include a headline slot at the Tramlines Festival in Sheffield on July 25, with many fans speculating about a possible appearance at Glastonbury, which runs from June 25 to June 29. Cocker, however, has clarified that while Glastonbury holds special significance for the band, they currently have “no plans” to add the iconic festival to their itinerary.

Nostalgia Meets Modernity

The return of Pulp is more than a nostalgia trip; it signifies a harmonious blend of past and contemporary influences. By deciding to release an album after so long, the band contributes to a broader trend of reunions in the music industry. However, instead of recycling old formulas, they explore new musical landscapes, challenging both themselves and their audience to embrace change.

Cocker’s unique brand of storytelling is sure to resonate with both old fans and a new generation, creating a powerful connection that transcends time. With the lyrical prowess Pulp has demonstrated over the years, More aims to ask pertinent questions about the human experience, societal structures, and personal introspection, all within a framework that feels immediate and relevant.

The Legacy of Pulp

As Pulp prepares for their new chapter, their dedication to music remains strong. The period since their last release has seen the evolution of both the music industry and societal norms, but Cocker and his bandmates have found a balance between honoring their legacy and evolving creatively. Dedicated to their late bassist, Steve Mackey, More serves as a poignant reminder of the band's strength and resilience amid change.

The significance of this new album extends into various aspects of popular culture, from the impact on the music community to their ability to inspire discussions around artistic expression and nostalgia in art. Pulp’s legacy, cemented through their unique contributions to music, continues to ripple through the industry, influencing a generation that seeks authenticity in art.

FAQ

When is Pulp's new album More being released?

More is set to be released on June 6, 2024.

What inspired Pulp's new recording approach?

The band sought to alleviate the stress of previous recording experiences by ensuring that all lyrics were finalized prior to entering the studio, allowing for a smoother and more fluid creative process.

How long did it take for Pulp to record More?

The recording of More took place over a period of just three weeks, the shortest timeframe for the band in the modern era.

Is Pulp touring after the album release?

Yes, the band will embark on a summer tour starting on June 7 in Glasgow and concluding on June 21 in Manchester, including a performance at Tramlines Festival on July 25.

Will Pulp be performing at Glastonbury?

Currently, Jarvis Cocker has stated that they have “no plans” to perform at Glastonbury, despite the festival holding a special place in their hearts.

What themes can we expect from More?

The album is anticipated to reflect Pulp’s characteristic lyrical depth, exploring themes of societal interaction, personal journeys, and introspection, delivered through a contemporary lens.

As More prepares to enrich the musical landscape with its thoughtful craftsmanship and emotional depth, Pulp, the beloved band of a generation, reminds us that creativity is not bound by time or circumstance. It is a testament to the enduring power of music in forging connections between our past and present, ultimately helping individuals navigate their uncertain futures.