John Prine (1946–2020)

Stunning debut by a guy who would become one of the best, most under appreciated, singer-songwriters ever. There are songs here that will just stop you in your tracks. Here is his description of addiction in Sam Stone: "There's a hole in daddy's arm where all the money goes/Jesus Christ died for nothin' I suppose." A college professor of mine said, "I'd give my left nut to be able to write like that." First bought this as a cutout LP. Kris Kristofferson did the liner notes, and compares him show more to Dylan, which was at the time the kiss of death. show less

Fifteen of his best songs re-recorded. He says in the liner notes he re-recorded them "so I could have my own master recordings of the songs," and promises if you don't like them not to re-record them for another 30 years. Absolutely stunning recordings, and a wonderful gift to anyone who has loved them for a long time, or a not-so-long time.

Some great live recordings, and some great funny stories. Some stuff is with a band, some just him and his guitar. The quiet take on "Mexican Home" puts the original recording in the deep shade.

Exceptional collection of songs from a guy who was thinking of quitting the business, but got talked out of it by Howie Epstein. So props to Howie. The (sort of) title song is flat-out hilarious.