Tramlines Festival 2025 saw Sheffield favourites Pulp return for a long-overdue appearance—and what a homecoming it was. Taking the main stage in front of a sold-out crowd, Pulp delivered a powerhouse performance that effortlessly blended their biggest hits with bold new material, proving they’re as relevant as ever.
Opening with “Spike Island” from their 2025 album More, the band signalled straight away that this wouldn’t just be a nostalgia-fest—it was a statement of evolution. They followed with fellow new cuts “Grown Ups,” “Slow Jam,” and “Tina”, each met with an impressive crowd reaction that showed fans had clearly done their homework.
But the classics weren’t far behind. The one-two punch of “Sorted for E’s & Wizz” and “Disco 2000” brought roars of approval, as did “Do You Remember the First Time?”, “Mis-Shapes,” “Babies,” and the inevitable mass singalong of “Common People.”
Photo credit : Phil Jon Photography
A standout moment came mid-set when the band played “Sheffield: Sex City”—its first live outing since 2012—a love letter of sorts to their hometown that had the locals beaming.
Adding to the magic, Richard Hawley joined the band for a series of tracks including “Sunrise,” “Last Day of the Miners’ Strike” (a live debut), and the soaring closer “A Sunset”—an acoustic encore that was intimate, nostalgic, and quietly powerful.
Jarvis Cocker was the electric centre of it all. Dressed in vintage tailoring and still gloriously offbeat, he danced and prowled his way across the stage with unmatched charisma. His connection with the Sheffield crowd was palpable; he was relishing every moment. At times funny, others poignant, Cocker was in peak form throughout.
Photo Credit: Jason Siddall Photography
This was more than just a gig—it was a celebration. A city and a band reunited, with a shared history and future. The new material proved Pulp aren’t resting on their legacy, while the timeless classics reminded us why they’ve earned it.
Check out our album review here:Pulp ‘More’ Review
