Pulp Unveils Video For New Song

Pulp’s much-anticipated new single “Got to Have Love” from the forthcoming album, More, signifies a resonant comeback for the Britpop icons. This single, the second release from their first album in 24 years, is a stirring disco-infused anthem about the necessity and power of love, a theme profoundly explored by frontman Jarvis Cocker. “Got to Have Love” encapsulates Pulp’s unique ability to weave personal and universal themes into their music, engaging fans with its heartfelt lyrics and energetic beats. The track is supported by an evocative music video directed by Cocker himself, featuring vivid footage from Tony Palmer’s 1977 documentary on Wigan Casino, capturing the essence of Northern Soul dancing.

The video underscores the song’s danceable nature while simultaneously serving as a visual ode to a vibrant subculture, connecting Pulp’s music with the visual legacy of Northern Soul. Cocker’s gravity-defying vocals ride atop syncopated drums and swirling melodies, building a crescendo that encapsulates the lyricism’s urgency. His reflective lyrics indicate a personal evolution, poignantly noting how love became a part of his vocabulary and life’s lexicon after years of inhibition. This journey is candidly communicated in lines where Cocker speaks about his initial aversion to even verbalizing the word “love” before his forties—a stark revelation about personal growth.

The track follows “Spike Island,” the first single from More, released earlier this year. “Spike Island” further solidified Pulp’s reemergence on the music scene, gaining significant attention both for its nostalgic nods to Britpop’s heyday and modern musical innovations. Both singles set the stage for the June 6 release of More through Rough Trade Records, signaling euphoric anticipation within the music community. The involvement of James Ford as producer adds another layer of complexity to the album. Known for his work with Arctic Monkeys and other renowned bands, Ford’s expertise complements Pulp’s dynamic sound, resulting in meticulously crafted tracks that speak volumes of the band’s reinvigorated musical vigor.

The choice of background dancers in the video aligns with Pulp’s aesthetic of marrying contemporary themes with retro influences, bridging past and present. Adding to the video’s richness is footage of Northern Soul dancers, celebrating Cocker’s longstanding affection for this dance style. For those familiar with Pulp’s legacy, this reflects a full-circle moment—integrating elements of their past with their evolved present, creating a narrative that speaks both audibly and visually.

Pulp embarks on a supporting tour for More, matching the album’s debut with live performances sure to capture the exuberance and nostalgia that underscore their latest musical venture. Scheduled to perform at iconic venues such as the Hollywood Bowl and additional promotional gigs, Pulp continues to galvanize fans worldwide. The band’s dynamism, coupled with the luminous aura of their newest release, underscores Pulp’s enduring impact on the music industry.