When you think of a rock concert, PowerPoint presentations aren’t usually part of the equation. But Pulp just proved that innovation in live music doesn’t have to mean flashy production or stadium theatrics. On July 18th, the Sheffield icons performed their album‘More’at London’s Royal Festival Hall accompanied by the Elysium Collective orchestra, with Jarvis Cocker standing front and center presenting the creative story behind each track. It sounds unconventional on paper, but the execution was nothing short of brilliant. The presentation allowed fans to understand the deeper meaning and inspiration behind the music while experiencing it live, creating an almost intimate connection despite the grand orchestral arrangements.
The setlist choices made this show even more special for dedicated Pulp fans. The band pulled out‘Wickerman’for the first time since 2011, alongside a curated mix of album tracks, rarities, b-sides, and even an ABBA cover. But the emotional heart of the night came through in their tribute to late bassist Steve Mackey, who was a founding member and crucial to the band’s sound. Performing a b-side written in his memory brought a poignant moment that reminded everyone why Pulp’s music matters so much to people. The whole show was part of Rough Trade’s 50th-anniversary celebration, the independent label that recently signed the band, making it feel like a full-circle moment for everyone involved.
What makes this performance stand out is how it challenges the typical concert format. Pulp could’ve just toured their new album like any other band, but instead they created an experience that felt educational and deeply personal. For anyone who loves indie rock history or has followed Pulp’s career, this show represented everything that makes live music special: the connection between artist and audience, the stories behind the songs, and the respect for the institutions that helped shape British music culture. Were you at the Royal Festival Hall, or do you wish you could’ve experienced this show? Drop your thoughts in the comments.
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Local Lawton
Local Lawton is a contributor to LocalBeat, covering local news and community stories.
