Pulp's 1998 album "This Is Hardcore" is a sprawling, ambitious, and often unsettling exploration of life, fame, and the human condition. Released on March 30, 1998, via Island Records, this sixth studio album from the British band comes three years after their breakthrough hit, "Different Class." With a runtime of just over an hour, it's a dense and immersive experience that blends elements of Britpop and Madchester, showcasing Pulp's signature wit and lyrical depth.
The album's title track, "This Is Hardcore," sets the tone with its explicit and provocative metaphor for fleeting fame, while tracks like "Party Hard" offer glimpses of indie euphoria. "Help The Aged" and "Like A Friend" delve into more mature and often uncomfortable themes, making "This Is Hardcore" a bold and unflinching look at adulthood. The album's cover art features Russian actress and politician Ksenia Sobchak, adding an intriguing visual element to the package.
Recorded between March 1997 and January 1998 at Olympic Studios in London and The Strongroom, "This Is Hardcore" is a testament to Pulp's evolution as songwriters and musicians. Tracks like "Seductive Barry" and "Glory Days" showcase the band's knack for crafting memorable melodies, while "The Day After The Revolution" and "I'm A Man" offer introspective and thought-provoking moments. The album's production is polished yet raw, creating a unique sonic landscape that perfectly complements the album's themes.
"Sylvia" and "A Little Soul" add a touch of vulnerability and tenderness to the album, providing a nice contrast to the more abrasive and confrontational tracks. "Dishes" and "TV Movie" round out the album with their catchy hooks and clever lyrics, proving that Pulp can deliver both substance and style.
In summary, "This Is Hardcore" is a giant, sprawling, and flawed masterpiece that tackles some of the most inappropriate grown-up issues of the day. It's a bold and unflinching look at life, fame, and the human condition, delivered with Pulp's signature wit and lyrical depth. Whether you're a longtime fan of the band or a newcomer to their music, "This Is Hardcore" is an album that demands to be heard and experienced in full.
Vinylscout