Album Review – Mark Morton

Mark Morton – WITHOUT THE PAIN

Reviewed by: Blake Mossey

Review Score: 8

Mark Morton, he of the mighty Lamb of God riff-slinging, has returned from his solo sojourn with Without the Pain, a sophomore effort that might just leave you scratching your head—in a good way, of course. Produced by the ever-capable Josh Wilbur, this album isn’t exactly a Lamb of God B-sides collection, much to the presumed chagrin of those expecting a sonic onslaught. Instead, Morton has opted for a scenic detour down memory lane, revisiting the sounds of his Virginia youth. Without the Pain follows the songwriter’s 2019 solo full length debut Anesthetic.

Think less ‘mosh pit’ and more ‘porch swing.’ Yes, we’re talking Southern rock, country, and the unmistakable echoes of Lynyrd Skynyrd, Molly Hatchet, and The Allman Brothers. As Morton himself cheekily admits, those roots were always lurking beneath the heavy grooves of his day job, like a well-mannered gentleman hiding a banjo under his leather jacket. So, if you’re open to witnessing a metal maestro trade in his distortion pedal for the most part, Without the Pain offers a surprisingly delightful—and perhaps slightly bewildering—change of pace.”

The opening track, Hell and Back, sets the tone with a country-rock influence, featuring vocals from Jaren Johnston of The Cadillac Three. While the sound leans into a more melodic style, the album still delivers plenty of dynamic guitar work and impressive solos, starting right from this track.

Two standout tracks on the album feature Country Outlaw singer Cody Jinks: Brother and Dust. Brother, the second track, immediately brought Steve Earle to mind upon first listen, leaving a lasting impression. Meanwhile, Dust pays homage to one of Mark Morton’s favorite bands, Lynyrd Skynyrd, with the lyric, “when the smoke and the wind smells like a Skynyrd song.” Both tracks are among the album’s most memorable highlights.

The album also includes a cover of Lynyrd Skynyrd’s The Needle and the Spoon, featuring Neil Fallon of Clutch. Forever in the Light showcases impressive guitar work from Mark Morton, alongside blues guitarist Tyler Bryant. Meanwhile, Nocturnal Sun stands out as the album’s heaviest track, with Mastodon’s Troy Sanders delivering a powerful vocal performance.
Country influences make their mark on two tracks, with Travis Denning lending his voice to Kite String and the album’s closing song, Home—both of which carry a classic country feel that my late father likely would have appreciated.
The album’s title track is performed by Matt James of Black Top Mojo, who will also serve as Morton’s vocalist for live shows. Rounding out the lineup are bassist Tim Lefebvre (David Bowie, Tedeschi Trucks Band), drummer Gary Novak (Allan Holdsworth, Alanis Morissette), and keyboardist Adam MacDougall (The Black Crowes, Macy Gray), all of whom bring a wealth of experience and musicianship to the project.

In closing, this album is an enjoyable listen—if you’re open-minded. If you’re expecting Mark Morton to deliver nothing but Lamb of God-level heaviness, well, this might not be for you. But if you’re up for hearing an artist stretch beyond their usual boundaries, take creative risks, and dive into a style they’re clearly passionate about, then this one’s worth your time. And with that, consider this your official mother F’in invitation!

Tracklist

1. Hell & Back – (Jaren Johnston of THE CADILLAC Three)
2. Brother – (Cody Jinks)
3. Without The Pain – (Matt James of Blacktop Mojo)
4. Kite String – (Travis Denning)
5. Come December – (Charlie Starr of Blackberry Smoke & Jason Isbell)
6. Dust – (Cody Jinks & Grace Bowers)
7. Forever In The Light – (Tyler Bryant & The Shakedown)
8. Nocturnal Sun – (Troy Sanders & Jared James Nichols)
9. The Needle And The Spoon – (Neil Fallon of Clutch)
10. Home (Travis Denning)