**Pulp Poised for First UK Number One Album in Nearly Three Decades**
British alternative legends Pulp are set to celebrate a remarkable chart comeback, with their new record *More* expected to clinch the top spot on the UK albums chart. If projections from the Official Charts Company hold true, it will be the band’s first number one album in 27 years, highlighting a significant renaissance for the iconic Sheffield group.
Released last Friday, *More* marks Pulp’s return to studio albums for the first time since *We Love Life* in 2001. The band’s chart history is distinguished by just two prior number one albums: 1998’s *This Is Hardcore* and the Britpop-defining *Different Class*, which hit shelves three years earlier. The current momentum surrounding *More* echoes the massive acclaim Pulp achieved in the 1990s, with their distinctive blend of witty lyricism and social commentary resonating afresh with long-time fans and a new generation alike.
As anticipation swirls around their chart performance, Pulp are also making waves across the live music circuit. The group have scheduled a string of high-profile shows this summer, taking in dates at the renowned Montreux Jazz Festival in July and travelling to South Korea’s Incheon Pentaport Rock Festival in August. Notably, the band’s calendar reveals a conspicuous gap between 21 June and 10 July, fuelling lively rumours among fans and festival-watchers alike that Pulp might be planning a surprise appearance at Glastonbury Festival. The event, which is notorious for unveiling secret sets from major acts, takes place at Worthy Farm at the end of June, leaving many speculating that the mysterious “TBA” slot could indeed belong to Jarvis Cocker’s band.
Elsewhere on the album charts, Little Simz is making a strong showing. The acclaimed London rapper’s latest release, *Lotus*, is on track for a career-best position at number two. Little Simz previously garnered critical and commercial success with *Sometimes I Might Be Introvert*, which reached number four and secured her the 2022 Mercury Prize, further elevating her status in UK music.
American internet sensation Addison Rae is also eyeing her best-ever chart debut with her self-titled album, *Addison*. Having successfully crossed over from social media stardom to pop music, Rae’s new record is expected to break into the top five, with its single “Fame Is A Gun” aiming for top 20 status on the singles chart.
Adding to a dynamic week in British music, the charts may soon see Welsh singer-songwriter Marina, previously known as Marina and the Diamonds, secure the number four spot with her latest venture, *Princess Of Power*. Marina Diamandis has continued to reinvent herself since her early hits, drawing acclaim and a loyal following with her blend of indie-pop sensibilities and confessional songwriting.
Meanwhile, nostalgia is making its presence felt as My Chemical Romance re-enter the albums race. The group’s *Three Cheers For Sweet Revenge Deluxe Edition* brings a fresh take on their 2004 classic, including new remixes and live tracks, which could push the album far beyond its initial peak of number 34 over 20 years ago.
The UK album charts this week showcase a vibrant mix of returning icons and rising contemporary acts, illustrating the ever-evolving nature of popular music in Britain. From the potential chart-topping return of Pulp to breakthrough moments for artists like Little Simz and Addison Rae, and the enduring allure of My Chemical Romance and Marina, the landscape reflects both deep nostalgia and an appetite for innovation.
The broader impact of these chart developments is yet to be fully realised, but for Pulp, the prospect of reclaiming number one after nearly three decades serves as a testament to their enduring influence and the cyclical nature of musical acclaim. As the summer festival season heats up, all eyes will be on the charts and the possibility of surprise performances—highlighting that, for Britain’s music lovers, there is always “more” to come.