About the song
When it comes to storytelling through song, few contemporary artists in the country and western world do it quite like Corb Lund. With his deep roots in the Canadian prairies and a background steeped in both cowboy tradition and punk rock energy, Lund brings a distinctive voice to every track he writes. One of his most memorable and evocative songs is “I Wanna Be In The Cavalry”, a stirring blend of military pageantry, historical romanticism, and biting irony.
At first listen, “I Wanna Be In The Cavalry” sounds like an enthusiastic anthem — the kind of song you’d imagine being sung by a wide-eyed recruit dreaming of glory and honor in battle. The melody is upbeat, carried by a galloping rhythm that mimics the cadence of hoofbeats across an open plain. Corb’s vocals ride the song like a seasoned horseman, steady and sure, inviting listeners into what seems like a bold, heroic adventure.
But pay closer attention, and you’ll realize there’s a sharp twist just beneath the surface. As the song progresses, the tone subtly shifts. The realities of war — the chaos, the bloodshed, the disillusionment — begin to take over the idealism. The second part of the song, often referred to as the “Reprise,” strips away the romanticism completely. Gone is the thrill of cavalry charges and polished boots. In its place, we find the soldier crushed by experience, abandoned by the very glory he once sought. Lund masterfully juxtaposes the naïve aspirations of youth with the grim realities of combat, and in doing so, delivers a powerful anti-war message without ever raising his voice.
What makes “I Wanna Be In The Cavalry” so compelling is how it operates on multiple levels. For the casual listener, it’s a catchy and spirited country tune. For the discerning ear, it’s a critique of blind patriotism and the tragic costs of war. Corb Lund, with his knack for fusing historical themes with raw emotion, has created a song that lingers long after the final note. It’s a must-listen for anyone who appreciates music that tells a deeper story — one that begins with a trumpet’s call and ends with a haunting silence.