Never been a fan but really enjoyed his set at Tramlines. Bought the new album, Allbarone, when it came out and I think it's great. Produced by Paul Epworth it's a banging disco synth monster shot through with Dury's sleazy views on life. Lots to like if you like Pulp I would say. Anyone else heard it?
The lines from Oi on Prince Of Tears about boyhood and friendship with a rough kid contain some pearls especially the last bit here:
Oi, do you remember me? That's right You gave me a little bit of a whack when I was younger But I forgive ya I wasn't that tough though I was from the posh flats But then we bonded Making up schemes But you always went a bit further We'd run down Chiswick High Road Being horrible to people Stealing smelly pens And you borrowed my bike forever
Oi, do you remember me? Broke my nose once ****ing hurt But I've been thinking about you Wondering if you're in prison I went to live on the river And got into media But we had porcelain faces then Nothing seemed to matter And I thought you were great except for the violence
When he was announced as Pulp's support in 2023, I listened to some of his albums on streaming. I had heard of him prior to this but never listened. My first impression was that it was pretty obvious why Pulp had chosen him as support. He did put on a good show and it would be great to see him again if he supports Pulp or another band in future.
As saw119 says above, there's plenty for Pulp fans. A lot of his songs contain spoken verses and some of the lyrics are vaguely comparable.
I have only listened to the new album once so far, it seems a bit more dance oriented than his previous work but I will certainly listen again.
Jarvis clearly rates him but I didn't see the appeal at Auto back in 02 and didn't feel inspired to listen again. I suppose lyrically he's quite good at picking up the small details in his songwriting which is the kind of songwriting Jarvis likes.
He was still very much learning his craft early millennium. The swagger isn't always merited but he's got some good lyrical ideas and Adele's producer brings the sonics. Presumably he was only affordable via mate's rates.