Music World Welcomes Major Releases: Pulp’s Return, Little Simz, Turnstile, Kean Kavanagh Debut Lead This Week’s Essential Albums and EPs

The global music landscape is vibrant this week with a significant wave of new album and EP releases, hitting digital streaming platforms (DSPs) and physical record shops. This latest collection features long-anticipated returns from acclaimed acts, notable debut efforts, and compelling new work spanning diverse genres, ensuring a rich offering for music enthusiasts worldwide.

Among the most talked-about releases is the first studio album in 24 years from the iconic British band Pulp. Titled “More,” this marks their highly anticipated follow-up to the critically lauded “We Love Life,” released back in 2001. The development of the songs featured on “More” took place during the first half of 2024, culminating in a focused recording period.

Pulp’s Enduring Legacy and New Chapter

The creation of “More” involved key collaborators. Music for the album was contributed by Richard Hawley and Jason Buckle. Adding a distinctive layer to the sound, backing vocals were provided by the Eno family. The string arrangements were crafted by Richard Jones and performed by the Elysian Collective, adding orchestral depth to the tracks. The recording sessions, helmed by producer James Ford, took place over three weeks in Walthamstow, London, commencing on November 18, 2024. This dedicated period in late 2024 brought the project to fruition, delivering a new body of work decades after their last studio effort, underscoring Pulp’s enduring creative impulse and ability to captivate audiences.

Kean Kavanagh Steps into the Spotlight with Debut

Making a significant entry is Irish artist Kean Kavanagh with his debut album, “The County Star.” This record is described as an indie/rock offering that skilfully blends elements of Americana with traditional Irish folk influences, creating a unique sonic tapestry. The album draws inspiration from Kavanagh’s hometown of Portlaoise, weaving personal narratives and local colour into its songs. Complementing the album’s release is a trilogy of accompanying videos, which star actor Peter McGann. This multimedia approach provides a deeper visual and narrative context for the album’s themes, allowing listeners to engage further with Kavanagh’s artistic vision.

Little Simz Continues to Push Boundaries

Acclaimed artist Little Simz is also featured among the week’s releases, showcasing her continued artistic evolution. Known for her dynamic and genre-defying approach, her new music incorporates a striking fusion of punk, jazz, and afrobeat elements. This adventurous sound is shaped significantly by her collaboration with chief producer Miles Clinton James. Furthermore, the new work features an impressive roster of guest artists, highlighting Simz’s collaborative spirit and broad influence within the music community. Featured collaborators include Obongjayar, Moses Sumney, Yukimi from Little Dragon, Sampha, Michael Kiwanuka, Yussef Dayes, Miraa May, Wretch 32, and Moonchild Sannelly, each adding their unique voice to Simz’s expansive musical palette.

Fresh Sounds from Emerging and Established Acts

This week also sees the debut EP from Dublin-based shoegaze band Dream Boy. Their 5-track EP, titled “Drowning In Blue,” delivers a sound strongly rooted in ’90s alt-rock aesthetics, characterized by swirling guitars and atmospheric textures. The band is set to celebrate the release with an EP launch event scheduled for June 26 at The Workmans Cellar in Dublin, with support for the evening provided by Pebbledash. This event offers an opportunity for fans to experience the new material live.

In addition to these highlighted releases, the week’s new music roster includes contributions from prominent bands such as Turnstile, known for their energetic and boundary-pushing sound, the compelling work of Junk Drawer, and the distinctive electronic soundscapes created by Death In Vegas. These artists further diversify the week’s offerings, ensuring there is a wealth of new music available across various genres and styles.

Accessibility and Future Prospects

All these new releases are readily available through major digital streaming platforms, providing immediate access to listeners globally. For those who prefer physical formats, the releases can also be found in record shops, supporting independent retailers and offering a tangible connection to the music. Music discovery platform Nialler9 continues to track the evolving Irish music scene, notably maintaining a running list of Irish album releases anticipated for 2025, indicating a promising future for new music from the region.

This week’s slate of new releases, from long-awaited albums by established giants like Pulp to compelling debuts and innovative sounds from artists like Little Simz, Kean Kavanagh, and Dream Boy, underscores the vibrant and ever-evolving nature of the music industry. Listeners have ample new material to explore and engage with across both digital and physical formats.