Dive into the raw and unfiltered world of Pulp with their 1987 studio album, "Freaks." This seminal work, originally released on Fire Records, marks a pivotal moment in the band's discography, offering a stark contrast to their earlier sound. With a runtime of 1 hour and 33 minutes, this album is a deep dive into themes of power, claustrophobia, and suffocation, all wrapped in a dark, atmospheric package.
"Freaks" is a collection of ten stories that delve into the darker side of human experience, each track a standalone narrative that builds on the next. From the haunting opening notes of "Fairground" to the eerie closing track "Goodnight," Pulp takes you on a journey through the shadows of the human psyche. The album's remastered tracks, released in 2012, bring a new level of clarity and depth to the original recordings, allowing the intricate details of the music to shine through.
The album's reissue as part of the Fire Embers series includes a bonus disc packed with additional tracks, offering fans a deeper look into Pulp's creative process during this period. These bonus tracks, including "Little Girl with Blue Eyes" and "The Will to Power," provide a fascinating glimpse into the band's early experimentation with sound and style.
"Freaks" is a testament to Pulp's versatility and their willingness to push the boundaries of their music. While it may not have achieved commercial success upon its initial release, the album has since been recognized for its unique sound and its influence on the indie and post-punk genres. Whether you're a long-time fan of Pulp or a newcomer to their music, "Freaks" is an essential addition to any music collection.