Pulp: “Different Class” (Album Review)

Genres: Britpop, Glam Rock, Art Rock

Different Class by Pulp is a great mix of upbeat instrumentation and inspiring lyricism. There is so much liveliness and passion infused in each song, making for a thoroughly enjoyable listening experience. The sense of excitement that the album instills in its audience is easily one of its strongest points.

It’s hard not to listen to Different Class without having it playing through your headphones at full volume or blasting in a car with the windows rolled down. The energy of the album and the energy it creates are organic, which makes it all the more palpable. The buildup to the chorus of "Mis-Shapes" is chock-full of anticipation until the chorus hits, and the overwhelming emotion matches the start of the revolution depicted within the song’s lyrics. This is just one example of how energy is manipulated in a way that creates a great response from the listener. Across the album, this is done again and again, at varying intensities. "Disco 2000" and "Common People" may not be as aggressive as "Mis-Shapes," but the enthusiasm present on these tracks propels them forward. Due to this, dancing and singing along to the lyrics is just something that comes natural.

The album’s energy is only broken apart by middling songs, which are few and far between, but slow down the record more than necessary. "Sorted For E’s & Wizz" speaks largely about party culture but is just too dull to care about. Different Class’ level of high intensity isn't given proper time to breathe by a song like this, instead it’s just draining. Thankfully, the rarity of these slow moments means that the album doesn’t drag on and lessen its impact.

Pulp has a great understanding of their capabilities and knows how to fully utilize their strengths. There is an evident congruence between what the band wanted to create and how the record turned out. From the rough and loud rallying cry for outcasts to the pondering about relationships and life’s changes, the ideas that are presented are wonderfully communicated.

Different Class is full of charm and classic British wit. It’s easy to see the allure of one such album, as it still remains culturally relevant to this day. Jarvis Cocker’s expressive vocal performance and storytelling abilities makes for captivating songs. Decades later, and the tracks still feel fresh and invigorating, which is revealing about how utterly enthralling the record is.

Favorite Tracks: Disco 2000, Common People, Something Changed, Mis-Shapes, Underwear, Pencil Skirt, Monday Morning, Bar Italia

Least Favorites: Sorted For E’s & Wizz, Live Bed Show

Enjoyment: High 8

Critically: Low 9

Arbitrary Number: 9.0/10