Blur released the 1993 alternative rock album 'Modern Life Is Rubbish'. It was the English band's second studio album and marked a major change from the dance-oriented style of their debut, 'Leisure'.
After a difficult US tour and disappointing response to 'Leisure', Blur turned toward distinctly British musical references. Damon Albarn's songs examined suburban life, national identity, consumer culture, and changing social habits. Guitarist Graham Coxon helped give the album a sharper, more guitar-driven sound.
The record includes 'For Tomorrow', 'Chemical World', and 'Sunday Sunday'. Producer Stephen Street worked with the band, and the album's artwork and arrangements helped establish the aesthetic later associated with Britpop.
A common mix-up is identifying 'Parklife' as the album that began Blur's British-focused period. 'Parklife' was the 1994 follow-up that made the band internationally famous, but 'Modern Life Is Rubbish' was the earlier turning point. It helped inspire the band's move away from their debut's Madchester-influenced sound.