What makes Modern Pain by Corb Lund notable?

Modern Pain received critical acclaim for its authentic representation of rural life and struggles, making a significant impact on the Canadian country scene. The album helped solidify Lund's reputation, leading to future successes and positioning him as an influential artist within the independent music circuit. Released in 1995, Modern Pain marked Corb Lund's debut album, establishing him as a notable voice in Canadian country music. At this point in his career, Lund was transitioning from his earlier work with the band The Smalls to a solo career, showcasing his distinctive songwriting style and ability to weave personal narratives into broader themes.

Who is Modern Pain for?

Modern Pain works well if you're into poignant storytelling with warmth, steady mid-tempo reflective moments and ideal for late-night introspection.

How many songs are on Modern Pain?

Modern Pain has 16 tracks, running approximately 49 minutes.

Modern Pain

Corb Lund · 1995

49 min · 16 tracks · country music

A blend of earnest storytelling and traditional instrumentation that captures the essence of Canadian folk and country music.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Lament for Lester Cousins — This track encapsulates Lund's storytelling prowess, reflecting deep emotions connected to loss while utilizing vivid imagery and poignant details.
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Hockey Song (live) — As a beloved anthem that resonates with Canadian identity, this live version showcases Lund's ability to engage audiences through humor and cultural references.
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Expectation and the Blues — Opening the album, this track sets the tone with its catchy melody and relatable lyrics about facing life's disappointments head-on.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

poignant storytelling with warmth
steady mid-tempo reflective moments
ideal for late-night introspection
captivating narratives of rural life
engaging sing-alongs with friends

Maybe skip if you

seeking high-energy tracks
prefer standalone singles

Where this album fits

Career context: Released in 1995, Modern Pain marked Corb Lund's debut album, establishing him as a notable voice in Canadian country music. At this point in his career, Lund was transitioning from his earlier work with the band The Smalls to a solo career, showcasing his distinctive songwriting style and ability to weave personal narratives into broader themes.
Stylistic neighbors: Sturgill Simpson· Kacey Musgraves· Jason Isbell

New to Corb Lund? Find your way in →

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

1 Expectation and the Blues 2:55
2 We Used to Ride ’Em 2:58
3 Untitled Waltz 3:28
4 Your Game Again 2:45
5 Owlsong 2:11
6 La Souffrance des Gens 3:11
7 Lament for Lester Cousins 3:50
8 Lives of Attrition (The Best We Can Do) 3:07
9 You and Your Creeping 4:01
10 Heavy and Leaving 3:20
11 Waste and Tragedy 3:28
12 Manyberries 2:41
13 Evil in Me 2:31
14 Hockey Song (live) 3:04
15 Sixteen Tons (live) 2:49
16 Are You Sure Hank Done It This Way (live) 3:26

What to play next

Listen next

Unforgiving Mistress

1999

Full Corb Lund discography Where to start with Corb Lund Artists like Corb Lund

bluegrass music

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata