Review and Photogrpahy by Robert Barrett

A storming, euphoric, spectacular homecoming show proved PULP were back and better than ever. We had exclusive access to the incredible show.

After an excellent opening set by another hometown hero, and PULP family member Richard Hawley, a giant moon lit the stage, its light bouncing off the full orchestra and band members. Jarvis’s lone silhouette rose up on a platform singing the eternally filty “I Spy”.Sufddenyk the stage erupted into color as the iconic first chords of Disco 2000 kicked inot gear, before streamers blasted into the dancing audience. PULP were back in town and ready to give Sheffield everything they had got.

It’s still near impossible to take your eyes off Jarvis, who’s on stage routine would have a 20 year old working up a sweat. Whether it’s jumping off speaker stacks during “Mis-Shapes”, throwing chocolate and grapes to the audience or running up and down the giant steps, his energy remains boundless after all these years.

The stage design was also equally as impressive, with the giant screen changing for every track. Alongside some impressive blocks making up the stairs. One minuets you were transported to a 60s Dancefloor for cuts from “Different Class”, next an impressive psychedelic laser show for “Sorted for E’s and Wizz”, and then a grotty chandelier and chair for Jarvis to saunter around during the naughty “This Is Hardcore”.

We’ve been learning to play these songs without him commented Jarvis on the recent loss of Steve Macke before playing “Something Changed”. The sense of loss didn’t define the night, but it ….

The main set ended with an incredible rendition of “We Love life” standout “Sunrise”. A giant sun rose from the back of the stage, singularly lighting the entire arena as Jarvis danced in front. 

“Is there something we have forgotten? Is there a song we have forgotten to play?” quizzed Jarvis on the first of two encores. Of course they couldn’t leave without playing “Common People”. As anthemic as it ever was, the whole arena singing and dancing in union. 

A second encore gave the fans the newest and oldest PULP songs. An electric version of 2012’s final track “After You” and early mainstream classic “Razamatazz”. 

If this really is PULP’s final tour, then they have gone out on a high. An eclectic set with incredible production did them justice. Long live PULP.