LCD Soundsystem and Pulp performed a surprise cover of Heaven 17’s 1981 track, “(We Don’t Need This) Fascist Groove Thang,” at the Hollywood Bowl. The collaboration took place on Friday night during LCD Soundsystem's set, marking the conclusion of Pulp's North American tour. This live performance brought together two prominent bands for a notable musical event.
Key Takeaways
- LCD Soundsystem and Pulp covered Heaven 17's "(We Don't Need This) Fascist Groove Thang."
- The performance occurred at the Hollywood Bowl, concluding Pulp's North American tour.
- The song holds special significance due to shared origins and previous connections between the bands.
- James Murphy noted the song's continued relevance 44 years after its release.
Hollywood Bowl Event Features Unique Collaboration
The Hollywood Bowl hosted two nights of co-headlining performances by Pulp and LCD Soundsystem. The final night, Friday, September 26, 2025, saw a unique moment unfold. LCD Soundsystem, performing last, invited Pulp members onto the stage.
This joint appearance led to the unexpected cover. The song chosen was Heaven 17’s “(We Don’t Need This) Fascist Groove Thang.” This track, released in 1981, is known for its electro new wave sound and political lyrics.
Performance Details
- Venue: Hollywood Bowl, Los Angeles
- Date: Friday, September 26, 2025
- Bands: LCD Soundsystem, Pulp
- Cover Song: “(We Don’t Need This) Fascist Groove Thang” by Heaven 17
Significance of the Song Choice
The decision to cover this specific song carries multiple layers of meaning. Heaven 17 originated from Sheffield, England, the same city as Pulp. This shared geographical origin creates a direct link between the bands involved and the original artists.
Additionally, LCD Soundsystem had previously covered this song. They recorded a version for an Amazon session in 2018. However, the Hollywood Bowl performance marked the first time LCD Soundsystem played the song live in front of an audience. This added to the event's special nature for fans.
According to James Murphy, LCD Soundsystem's frontman, the lyrics of “(We Don’t Need This) Fascist Groove Thang” remain as relevant today as they were when the song was released 44 years ago, possibly even more so.
Creative Connections Between Bands
Beyond the shared city, there is a professional connection between LCD Soundsystem and Pulp. James Murphy, the leader of LCD Soundsystem, produced Pulp’s 2013 single, “After You.” This previous collaboration highlights a working relationship between the two groups.
The cover performance featured Jarvis Cocker of Pulp and Nancy Whang of LCD Soundsystem sharing vocal duties. They turned the song into a duet, while other members of Pulp provided backup vocals. This arrangement showcased the combined talents of both bands.
Heaven 17 Background
Heaven 17 formed in 1980 after Martyn Ware and Ian Craig Marsh left The Human League. They are known for their pioneering electronic sound and politically charged lyrics. Their debut album, Penthouse and Pavement (1981), included “(We Don’t Need This) Fascist Groove Thang,” which became a controversial but influential track.
The Enduring Message of the Lyrics
The song’s lyrical content addresses political themes and societal issues. When released in 1981, it was seen as a commentary on the political climate of the time. The decision by James Murphy to highlight its current relevance suggests a continuity in these global concerns.
The performance served as both a musical tribute and a statement. It reminded the audience of the song's powerful message. The collaboration brought attention to how certain themes resonate across different eras and musical genres.
This shared performance was a highlight for many attendees. It blended the distinctive styles of both LCD Soundsystem and Pulp with the classic material of Heaven 17. Such collaborations often become memorable moments in music history.
Future Plans for LCD Soundsystem
Following this Hollywood Bowl engagement, LCD Soundsystem is scheduled to return to New York City. The band will begin their annual holiday run of performances in November. These shows are a regular event for their fanbase in the city.
Key Dates and Events
- 1981: Heaven 17 releases "(We Don't Need This) Fascist Groove Thang."
- 2013: James Murphy produces Pulp's single "After You."
- 2018: LCD Soundsystem records an Amazon session cover of the song.
- November 2025: LCD Soundsystem begins annual holiday run in NYC.
Impact on Fans and Music Culture
The collaboration at the Hollywood Bowl generated significant interest among fans of all three bands. Videos of the performance quickly circulated online, allowing a wider audience to witness the event. This type of cross-generational and cross-genre performance often sparks discussion about musical influences and artistic connections.
It also underscored the ongoing appeal of classic new wave music. The ability of a 44-year-old song to resonate with contemporary artists and audiences speaks to its timeless quality. These moments help bridge different eras of music history.
For Pulp, the performance marked the end of a successful North American tour. For LCD Soundsystem, it was a unique live addition to their repertoire before their upcoming New York residency. The event showcased the dynamic nature of live music and the power of unexpected collaborations.