British band Pulp made a remarkable comeback with their first new album in 24 years, More, and a captivating performance in Glasgow. Frontman Jarvis Cocker led the band through a setlist blending new tracks like “Spike Island” with classics such as “Common People,” leaving fans exhilarated and nostalgic for the band’s iconic 90s sound.
A Long-Awaited Reunion
Pulp’s performance at Glasgow’s OVO Hydro on June 7, 2025, marked the beginning of their “You Deserve More” tour, their first major tour in over two decades. Known for their distinctive Britpop sound and sharp social commentary, the band had largely stepped out of the spotlight since their 2002 hiatus, reuniting only briefly in 2011 and again in 2022.
The release of More on June 6, 2025, signified a true return to form. Produced by James Ford, the album features 11 tracks that reflect both maturity and artistic consistency. Songs like “Grown Ups” and “Got to Have Love” showcase a band unafraid to evolve, while retaining the dry wit and observational lyricism that first earned them a devoted following.
The album also serves as a heartfelt tribute to bassist Steve Mackey, who passed away in 2023. His influence can be felt across several tracks, adding emotional resonance to an already highly anticipated release.
The Glasgow Performance
The show in Glasgow was nothing short of theatrical. The concert began dramatically with a velvet curtain rising to reveal the silhouette of Jarvis Cocker, who launched into the new track “Spike Island” with fervor. This opener set the tone for an evening that merged nostalgia with fresh musicality.
Split into two acts with an intermission, the performance featured both new material and beloved hits. Audience favorites like “Disco 2000,” “Sorted for E’s and Wizz,” and “Do You Remember the First Time?” were enthusiastically received, while new tracks were met with curiosity and growing appreciation as the show progressed.
The stage design and lighting played a significant role in heightening the experience. The inclusion of a ten-piece string section brought added depth and richness to several numbers, both old and new. Jarvis Cocker’s stage presence was magnetic, oscillating between theatrical gestures and candid monologues that engaged the audience on a personal level.
Emotional and Artistic Highs
One of the evening’s most poignant moments came when the band performed “Crying Over,” a track from More believed to have been inspired by the band’s grief over Mackey’s passing. With minimal instrumentation and haunting lyrics, the performance left many fans visibly moved.
Other new songs like “The Pain of Being Pure at Heart” and “You Deserve More” underscored the band’s lyrical evolution, focusing on themes of aging, self-awareness, and enduring love. These reflective pieces offered a contrast to the high-energy, crowd-pleasing classics that dominated the latter half of the concert.
Audience Reaction
The response from the Glasgow crowd was electric. Fans across generations gathered to witness the band’s return, many of them wearing vintage Pulp merchandise and singing along to every word. The atmosphere was one of shared joy and collective memory, with newcomers and longtime devotees united in appreciation.
The band’s ability to engage a multi-generational audience speaks to the timeless appeal of their music. Cocker’s wry storytelling and engaging banter between songs made the show feel intimate despite the large venue.
What Comes Next
Following the Glasgow show, Pulp is set to perform in major cities across the UK and Ireland, including Dublin, London, Birmingham, and Manchester. Although dates for a North American leg of the tour have not been confirmed, the band has hinted at plans to expand their reach globally.
Fans are advised to arrive early for shows, as Pulp’s concerts feature extended performances without opening acts. With critical and public response overwhelmingly positive, the “You Deserve More” tour is shaping up to be one of the most talked-about musical events of the year.
Legacy and Relevance
Pulp’s return is not just a nostalgic trip for those who came of age during the Britpop era. It’s a testament to the enduring power of well-crafted, emotionally resonant music. With More, the band has not only honored its past but carved a new path forward—one that speaks to the challenges and complexities of modern life while reminding us why we fell in love with their music in the first place.
