One of the biggest genres at the moment, which may be surprising, is country music. I haven’t really touched on the genre yet, so though I would review a classic – Johnny Cash.

At Folsom Prison is one of the definitive releases of Cash and country music in general. It is a live recording of his performance at Folsom State Prison in 1968. The songs are perfect for the setting, often highlighting the gritty and harrowing sides of prison life, along with some humour. The banter between Cash and the crowd only heightens the atmosphere.

There is a great balance between upbeat toe-tappers and slower songs. His wife June Carter even guests for a few songs. Cash must’ve predicted the special guest trend at festivals like Glastonbury and Coachella!

There are a few unnecessary bonus tracks on the CD version in my opinion. I would just fade out at the end for them (the rest of the album flows into each other, as if you’re at the actual concert). The setlist for the original album release is perfect to me.

Overall, I don’t have too much to say about this album that hasn’t already been said. It is a very rugged and raw release, completely different to the sound of modern country that many dislike. It definitely could be classed as rock n roll too.

A classic from the “Man in Black.”