Discover Pulp’s Surprising Glastonbury Set: A Review of Britain’s Endearing Pop Oddballs

“Sorry to anyone waiting for Patchwork,” Jarvis Cocker joked, referring to a surprise name on the Glastonbury lineup instead of Pulp. “How did you know we were playing?”

Pulp skillfully hid their Glastonbury gig. Cocker recalled how, 30 years ago, they unexpectedly took the headlining spot, a performance that launched their career. Even keyboardist Candida Doyle assured a local paper that Glastonbury had no interest in them. Still, the Pyramid stage was packed.

They kicked off their set with "Sorted For E’s & Wizz," a track that plays with the idea of the hedonistic vibe at Glastonbury. It shows how Pulp, even back in the ’90s, never followed the crowd. Their sound—an upbeat mix of glam, French pop, disco, and quirky electronics—was different from other Britpop bands. Where many sought to align with mainstream music, Pulp celebrated the oddballs and outsiders, making them seem like an accident of success rather than a product of a trend.

Their old songs spark nostalgia, and the crowd’s emotional reactions are clear—even if those hits feel timeless. Pulp’s recent album, More, features songs like "Spike Island" and "Got To Have Love," showcasing their ability to apply their original style to new phases of life. Cocker, charismatic as ever, shared insights about embracing the festival experience. He reminisced about the nerves they faced filling in for the Stone Roses in 1995 but said he felt relaxed this time.

The closing song, "Common People," remains a powerful anthem about class struggle. It ignites a frenzy among the audience, reminiscent of past performances. During the song, the Red Arrows made a flyover, adding to the moment’s spectacle. As Cocker waved goodbye, he hinted at his later plans—another signature Pulp twist.

This performance aligns with a growing trend: live music festivals are seeing a revival as fans seek to connect with both the music and each other. According to a recent survey, nearly 70% of festival-goers stated they enjoy the festival experience for its sense of community. This dynamic is crucial, especially after years of isolation during the pandemic.

In the end, Pulp’s show at Glastonbury wasn’t just about nostalgia; it reminded us of the timelessness of music and the joy of shared experiences.

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