Pulpasta

Pulpasta is a term that emerged to describe a specific style of musical arrangement and songwriting that gained popularity in the late 1990s and early 2000s. It is characterized by a fusion of electronic dance music (EDM) elements with a strong emphasis on melodic, often melancholic, vocal performances. The term itself is a portmanteau of "pulp," referring to the emotional and narrative qualities found in some pulp fiction, and "pasta," alluding to the layered and interwoven nature of the music's production.

The sound of pulpasta typically involves lush synthesizers, prominent basslines, and driving drum beats reminiscent of trance or house music. However, the defining feature is the integration of introspective lyrics and emotive vocals, often delivered in a breathy or ethereal style. This creates a distinct contrast between the energetic dancefloor-oriented instrumentation and the deeply personal lyrical content. Artists associated with this style often explored themes of love, loss, and introspection, presented within a sonic landscape designed for both dancing and contemplation. While not a formally recognized genre, pulpasta describes a discernible trend in electronic and pop music during its period of prominence.