Released on May 10, 1993, Modern Life Is Rubbish is Blur’s second studio album and the record that marked their transition from shoegaze-influenced indie rock to the distinct Britpop sound they would later perfect. The album was a direct response to the grunge-dominated early '90s music scene, with Blur embracing a uniquely British aesthetic inspired by The Kinks, The Jam, and The Small Faces. Although initially overshadowed by American rock trends, Modern Life Is Rubbish played a crucial role in shaping the Britpop movement, which would explode with 1994's Parklife. Damon Albarn’s witty, observational lyrics explore themes of urban life, class struggles, and disillusionment in early '90s Britain, while Graham Coxon’s inventive guitar work adds an edge to the album’s melodic, sometimes melancholic atmosphere.

Tracklist:

Side A
A1. For Tomorrow
A2. Advert
A3. Colin Zeal
A4. Pressure on Julian

Side B
B1. Star Shaped
B2. Blue Jeans
B3. Chemical World
B4. Intermission

Side C
C1. Sunday Sunday
C2. Oily Water
C3. Miss America
C4. Villa Rosie

Side D
D1. Coping
D2. Turn It Up
D3. Resigned
D4. Commercial Break