SPILL ALBUM REVIEW: PULP – MORE

PULP
MORE
ROUGH TRADE RECORDS

Britpop legends Pulp have finally returned with More, their first album in 24 years. The long stretch between records is no problem. Jarvis Cocker and company deliver one of their finest records with More.

Pulp fans will be overjoyed with the new album, especially with “Spike Island” and “Got To Have Love”. The infectiously stunning Bowie-esque “Spike Island” will instantly transport you back to the ‘90s when Britpop was at the peak of its popularity. This danceable, disco-inspired tune will remind you of hits like “Common People” or “Disco 2000”. Cocker’s voice has never been better. His hypnotic vocals in the soaringly anthemic chorus are mesmerizing. Equally as remarkable is the production and instrumentation, which adds to the dazzling visceral sensation of the song. Alternatively, Pulp retains the magic that made them so beloved with “Got To Have Love”. It is endlessly captivating thanks to Cocker’s electrifyingly energetic performance, riveting storytelling, a fantastic combination of soul, disco, and Britpop, an unbelievably catchy chorus, and a thrillingly roaring guitar solo.

The perfectly titled “Slow Jam” is another highlight. With a deliciously funky bass line set against a slow, moody tempo and Cocker’s haunting vocals, this track is incredibly addictive. Meanwhile, the atmospherically sultry “My Sex” is one of the sexiest tunes of 2025. Lastly, the gorgeously delicate instrumentation and beautifully vivid storytelling of “Farmers Market” is lovely.

Lyrically, the album explores themes such as adulthood, relationships, love, sex, and the passage of time, among others. In “Grown Ups”, Cocker muses about growing up and the responsibilities that come with it. “The Hymn Of The North” is a profound, honest, and heartfelt track with plenty of tender moments. More also has the trademark wit and humour of Pulp, like in “Got To Have Love,” where Cocker sings, “Without love, you’re just jerking off inside someone else”, a line that only Cocker himself could come up with.

Overall, More is a wonderful return for Pulp. Hopefully, we do not need to wait another two decades for the next Pulp record.

Artist Links