John Prine

loooooove. absolutely perfect. cant pick a favorite but hello in there has a special place.

Grew up listening to John Prine. It seemed like one of his records was always on the turntable. And he's one if the greatest singer-songwriters of all time. Lyrics that can haunt you, like Hello In There.

John Prine is an artist that I never listened to. I had always been aware of how much he was beloved by music fans, but what I assumed about his music wasn't what I ever liked all that much. I was intrigued when this album came up today from the generator, as I figured I'd either "get it" or be correct in my assumptions. As soon as the album began I realized it would be the former. My immediate thought while Illegal Smile was playing was that I couldn't believe this was the first song on his debut album. He already sounded so self-assured in his wordplay. As each song progressed I was impressed with not just said wordplay, but also how emotional each song could be. And it wasn't just a folk sounding album, but many styles of music as well. There were so many great songs, and I'm not sure there's any I didn't really enjoy. I can't even list the standouts as I think this is a record full of them.

I hadn't heard this album in ages! What an amazing debut: Hello in There and Angel from Montgomery are my favorite on an album where nearly every song is a winner.

The start of something special for the folk-americana scene.

A combination of outstanding deep cutting lyrics combined with that folk-country sound that I love. So many notable songs that cover so many relevant topics that are still relevant today. The more I listened the more I enjoyed it. each listen I enjoyed it a bit more. It started off as a 4 but ended up as a 5. Sam Stone was obviously the standout song, but Hello in There and Angel from Montgomery were a close second. 5 stars

An absolute classic. Any album with "Sam Stone", "Hello in There", and "Angel From Montgomery" is at least 4 stars, and the rest of the tracklist fills out the album nicely. John Prine is one of the best songwriters, and he doesn't write particularly poetically and complex - he can sculpt a whole character's story in just a few key, wry observations. The instrumentation is run-of-the-mill country, with acoustic and slide guitars abound, but anything more complex would take away from the songs.

John Prine is one of the greatest American singer songwriters of all time. The storytelling on this album is absolutely masterful. “ Hello in There” is one of the saddest and best songs ever written. “Angel from Montgomery” is another beauty. And how about the opener? “Illegal Smile” is funny and philosophical all at the same time. I just love this album. This is deserving of the list if ever an album was!

Love this album. Especially Paradise and Your Flag Decal Won't Get You Into Heavan Anymore.

Such words - why isn’t Prine more talked about? Too relaxed, the voice of a cheerful companion rather than a prophet, maybe , he lacks Dylan’s apocalyptic and mystical tendencies, but could anyone sing a picture of person and situation with more stick and wit? Not that the music behind the lyrics is lacking: clear and often modestly gorgeous; the close of “Donald and Lydia” is wordless ecstasy.

Musically it’s pleasant, with some engaging stuff, but the real joy is in the lyrics. So funny and human. A delight.

John Prine should be beautified as St. John.

Such a comforting listen, I’m not usually a country fan but I loved this. The lyricism and song writing is fantastic.

Amazing Prine!!!!

beautiful in all the ways. lyrically, acoustically, vocally. tj tells me he started as a singing mailman, what a treat!

THE GOAT

Amazing amazing album, thoughtful and cheeky lyrics and fantastic music!

Q: Has there ever been a better debut album? A: No

One of my favorite artists with a group of my fav songs.

Honestly maybe the best country album I’ve ever heard

What an absolute fucking G. This shit goes hard. Modern country could never.

The album is basically little country ditties interlaced with the most devastating lyrics in popular music. The restrained delivery really makes it for me. There’s no overdone emotion in the vocals, which can often feel contrived, like the songwriter is telling you how you should feel. He just lets the lyrics speak for themselves (if that makes any sense).

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ I love John Prine, his lyrics, and his licks. What a cutie pie

My first time hearing this all the way through and I absolutely loved it. Had heard "Illegal Smile" and "Hello in There," that was about it. This was an amazing debut from one of the best songwriters of his or any generation. I was surprised by the darkness of songs like "Sam Stone" and "Six o' clock News." I'll take Prine over Dylan any day. His songs are like little philosophical treatises in 3-4 minutes. He was called "The songwriters' songwriter" and it's totally earned. I've got to go back and listen to his catalog.

An all-timer for me. I love most of John Prine's albums, but this one is quintessential and captures the essence of who he was - funny, empathetic, and talented. He wasn't overly flowery with language or as artsy (and let's be honest, pretentious) as Dylan, but he's one of the greatest songwriters of all time. He was an everyman Dylan. Jason Isbell, a great songwriter in his own right, said the difference between a good songwriter and great one is whether they can write about subjects beyond themselves without being vague. I think thats true, and Prine exemplified that, going deep and vivid here through a range of subjects, from people growing old alone, to a veteran heroin addict, to a yearning Alabaman housewife with dead dreams. But some of the best songs here are deeply personal. Paradise is a favorite of mine, describing the ecological and economic destruction of coal country through a place that meant a lot to him. Pretty much a perfect debut

Favorite Track: Spanish Pipedream

Every time I listen to these songs it feels new to me

Collection of standards, drama and humor Illegal smile Hello in there Sam stone Angel from montgomery

Day683 - i already loved spanish pipe dream and angel from montgomery but to hear how good illegal smile,sam stone and the flag decal song are just makes this a wonderful album.

Fabulous deep and conscience song writer

I’m still ashamed to admit that I didn’t know who John Prine was until the bug made him shuffle off his mortal coil, but it was love at first listen and I’d give this a thousand stars if they’d let me.

Fuck it, five star.

Jest to bardzo dobry album. Nie jestem jakimś super fanem country, ale to się da słuchać i mogłoby lecieć w jakimś radio w GTA. 5

Super enjoyable album. I loved the simple, effective and at times humorous lyricism in these tracks. The instruments and vocals were great as well. Not too much to say; the album wowed me on the first go.

This album is so incredibly important to me. I was brought up in the John Prine tradition, meaning that our family car rides consisted of this album and "Sweet Revenge" whether we were headed to the beach or to dinner. The scope of emotions contained within are nearly unbelievable, even now. "Sam Stone" has gone down as one of the saddest songs of all time for obvious reasons, while "Paradise" captured that very Kentuckian feeling of the beauty of our state and its corruption through exploitative extraction. "Your Flag Decal Won't Get You Into Heaven Anymore" became the first (and my personal favorite) of the protest songs that JP would later be known for, and one that, unfortunately, has become more relevant every year since it was written. While tackling all of these themes could easily trend towards nihilism, the picture he paints of the world is an inspirational one. In reference to these societal issues, he once said: "I saw all that. I knew, and I couldn’t figure out why no one would say anything." I've always tried to take inspiration from this attitude, that you have to put a name and a face to the darkness in order to produce a little bit of light. I think JP embodied that sentiment until the end of his life, and now he's back here with us in KY, flowing down the Green River. One of the greatest to ever do it, and one of my favorite albums ever. I hope everyone enjoyed this one if you haven't heard it before, but even if you didn't, it'll still be here when you need it. 10/5

Dave Matthews and his acoustic cover of "Angel From Montgomery" is actually responsible for introducing me to John Prine (he has a wonderful cover of "Down By the River," too). I was absolutely astonished by the songwriting, and then listening to the album in full showed me Prine's pen is unmatched. It also taught me not all country music is bad. Prine's topics are timeless -- "Sam Stone" is one of the most important songs of the 70s, in my opinion. "Paradise" is, to my knowledge, one of the only songs that commits Western Kentucky's huge coal mining industry to history (fun fact: it was and still is bigger than coal in EKY). I think Prine's voice can wear on the listener, but that's not the focal point of the album, and it's a collection that grows on me every time I replay it.

John Prine's debut album is a treasure that deserves all the reverence it gets. Prine started out the gate releasing a masterclass in storytelling and wit that has influenced so many of the American artists I love today. With tracks like "Angel from Montgomery" and my favorite, "Sam Stone," Prine captures the essence of everyday life, weaving humor and heartbreak into his lyrics. His ability to paint vivid pictures with words is simply unmatched. This album laid the groundwork for countless singer-songwriters who followed, proving that authenticity and vulnerability resonate deeply. Not just an album, but a journey through the human experience. John Prine's legacy lives on in every artist he inspired, making this debut a true classic that still speaks to us today.

I have largely skipped Prine over the years, first time listening to a full album. Man that was an oversight. I fully recognize why he gets the respect he does. This will be added to the vinyl stacks.

Oh boy, another artist I discovered way too late for my own damn good. This one contains my favorite song of Prine's - 'Illegal Smile'. That's right, I love this more than 'Angel from Montgomery' because while "it takes a lot to laugh, it takes a train to cry". And sure, there are plenty of brutal (yet classic) songs here as Biggs points out, but we all need more laughter, these days, ya dig?

quiet country music from a fella who's quite the storyteller of sorts. older generations look at this guy with fondness, treating him like he's up there with the likes of bob dylan. and after listening to plenty of dylan's work, i might prefer prine over him. for a debut album, this one has a LOT going for it, even for me, a person who more often than not dislikes country music. reflection on one's self, longing and satirical pieces about the world, human relation and patriotism. a very very good listen, even when i initially was uninterested. while not much in instrumentation, sometimes all you really need are lyrics to set a mood. and john does that excellently.

Great album, Greta lyrics, possibly a bit of it’s time but still some poignant lyrics which just shows we haven’t come that far in 50 years

A five-star debut from Mr Prine. Several standouts, including Angel From Montgomery, Hello In There and Sam Stone. He paints a picture with every song. Not a bad song on this album.

"Sam Stone" is a heavy hitter, "Pretty Good" is a whole vibe, really the whole album slaps. Definitely going into regular rotation for me.

I don't know what it was exactly but this album really touched me...maybe its the fact he is from the midwest, maybe that he uses the name Loretta, or that he referenced Reader's Digest or the puns just make me think of clever dad jokes. All in all it was so pastoral in its language but so deep in its meaning. Never have I heard lyrics that used such simple pedestrian language that made such deep and big impact. What was also beautiful to me personally is the country western feel but the lyrics that felt so liberal and anti-establishment. Your flag decal won't get you into heaven was just as timely when it was written as it is today. Growing up in a rural America and loving so much of it and connecting with 95% of it I have always struggled to completely embrace that identity because the other 5% is associated with loud, obnoxious, conservative hate. So maybe that is the real reason I connect with this, John Prine took that 95% of me and mixed it with 5% of quiet, kind, sincere love for others that I believe in. This album is just beauty to me.

This is a really great folk-country-blues fusion. Really enjoyed the songwriting. The poetry of his lyrics really speaks to me. Gotta listen to more John Prine!

I don't know if I've ever heard a song that made me cry the very first time I listened to it. Usually my tears come from a nostalgia I have for it, or from already having an emotional connection to the lyrics or sounds of the song. So congrats Hello In There, you've done it! (Also hormones may have contributed) Today is one of those days I'm so very thankful for this project. I've heard great things about John Prine, but I've never bothered to explore his music. This album has some beautifully heart-wrenching moments - Hello in There wasn't the only one that made me misty. He writes such wise and emotional stories with his lyrics. The songs are also catchy and familiar and DO feel nostalgic, even though I wasn't familiar with them. They also feel humble and unpretentious, which brings an additional beauty. I loved all of it, zero complaints.

Incredible melodies and poignant lyrics. Slide guitar will always be an elite instrument. Nothing to dislike here.

This shit is fire. Dark biting storytelling over lowkey guitar. Classic America. Surprised I’ve never heard of this album before the man is a poet.

Amazing and a revelation. I can’t believe I’ve never heard (if) him before. I’ve already ré listened to Quite Man back to back and downloaded the album. The lp will be purchased soon. I live the simple lyrics that have such complex ideas and meaning. It takes a truly talented artist to pull this off so well.

Didn’t expect to love this so much. Had no idea Prine wrote Angel From Montgomery. Poetic, powerful anti-war songwriting and moving storytelling, just as country should be! My favorite thing about this album is how effortlessly Prine glides between themes and tones. His delivery is always relaxed and it’s unmistakable in each track that’s he’s got a love for the music

I expected to hate this album, but I was pleasantly surprised. I absolutely loved this! It was fun with cheeky lyrics that kept me engaged the entire time. I'd never listened to John Prine before, but I totally understand why he gets the praise he does as a songwriter. Kind of can't believe this is his debut album because it's so good. "Illegal Smile," "Spanish Pipedream," and "Your Flag Decal Won't Get You Into Heaven Anymore" are my favorite songs, but I really loved everything on here. Plus, "Your Flag Decal..." is as timely today as ever. Reminded me a lot of Bob Dylan's "Masters of War." This album is definitely up there as one of my best surprises since beginning to listen to this list.

john prine is one of my favorite songwriters of all time and although he had a lot of gems over the course of his career, his self-titled debut to me is his best and most consistent release. this album showcases everything great about john. his songs can have a sense of humor, or they can gut punch you. they can be political, slice of life, or over the top, but what they all are is human. from 'angel from montgomery' to 'sam stone,' from 'hello in there' to 'paradise,' there is such an overwhelming focus on people and their circumstances. one of my all time favorites from one of my all time favorites.

Mostly acoustic folk arrangements based around guitar picking/strumming fleshed out with fiddles, slides, organs, a touch of bass, light percussion, and the odd fuzzy electric guitar, all putting the vocals front and center. Traditional tools for timeless songs in the peak moment of post Dylan 70s country rock harnessing Americana aesthetics to explore the darkness of cold war nationalism for its own inhabitants through a series of pained character studies.

Calling this a masterclass in lyricism would be a little inaccurate, as I’m not sure anyone can absorb and then accurately recreate John Prine’s authenticity. What a captivating listen. I’m a hard sell on lyric-based music too! The opening song had me hopeful but I didn’t want to get my hopes up TOO high - these things often fall in quality after the first song. But the next “Spanish Pipedream” reassured me that I’d be clinging to every clever, personable line on this record. Outside of singing a little bit too much like Bob Dylan (a comp I make at least every other week at this point), I couldn’t possibly see a problem with this self-titled effort. The chorus on the aforementioned “Spanish Pipedream” is so money. “Hello In There” while still clever, is a much more sobering picture of domestic aging and the casual hardships people face as the years go by. “Sam Stone” basically lays out the blueprint for Born In The USA lyrically; a protest song in the form of a story about a vet coming home - except WAY more tragic and vivid. I will say, “Pretty Good” left me scratching my head a bit. Maybe this one is more Dylanesque than the rest, as I’m not too sure what the point was, or what went into some of the strange lyrical choices. But that’s ok, because “Your Flag Won’t Get You Into Heaven” picks things right back up. While it’s a Vietnam protest song, I found this one to have an evergreen message that could be handed down to many Americans in present day. I definitely had a facetious little smile on my face by the time this one ended. “Angel From Montgomery” is much like every other song of general hardship, but somehow again Prine has a thoughtful little lyrical spin on the whole thing. “Quiet Man” really seemed to be the only song without a real direction of any sort - maybe that was the whole point. An actual note on something that isn’t the lyricism, I LOVE the way “Donald and Lydia” was played out with that shiney guitar melody. A bright way to end a bright song. I think I have to give this album a 5/5. I was hooked from the start and wasn’t let down even through some of the more stereotypical songs. Prine is just self-aware enough to ensure the listener won’t be let down by repetition or cliche, while still remaining wildly personable and authentic in his storytelling. Really well-built project — I beg you to listen to at least the first half of it. Earned it’s way into the rarified air of 5 star albums I previously never knew anything about

I love this album. It’s easily one of the best country albums ever written. Every song stands out. His singing is instantly recognizable. The lyrics and writing are iconic. There’s so much range and so much to find on each re-listen. I love this album a lot. 5/5

One of the greatest shows I've ever seen was John Prine in Nashville on New Years' Eve. Among the most underrated songwriters of all time, and if you only pick one album of his to own, it should be this one.

Album 865 of 1089 John Prine - John Prine (1971) Rating : 5 / 5 I’ve been looking forward to this one for a while—John Prine’s debut. He’s grown to be a favorite of mine, so I was all set to enjoy it in my usual way… until an asshole decided to derail my listening session. Even with the distraction, though, the album shone through. Prine’s songwriting is as sharp and heartfelt as ever, and every track feels like it could be a personal favorite. There’s not a dud in the bunch. He really is a treasure to the music world, and I’ll be revisiting this one with my full attention soon. This isn't the review I saw myself delivering for this album but once the moment is ruined, it is ruined.

Prine's poetry is so perfect: timeless (it's kind of wild to note how relevant so many of his lyrics are -- if someone told me they had been written a few months ago, I'd believe it), and his low-key delivery complements the songs perfectly. Love.

This is everything a singer-songwriter album should be. No pretentiousness, no weird omphaloskepsis-fueled “journeys” into their own navel. It is just simple music, meaningful lyrics, and the kind of lived-in storytelling that makes you feel like you’re hearing it over a beer in a dive bar. Standouts for me were “Angel from Montgomery” (absolutely gorgeous) and “Paradise” (fiddle and all). It’s honest, unvarnished, and somehow timeless, like these songs have always been here, waiting for me to listen.

John Prine isn't talked about enough. He should be mentioned more alongside of Willie Nelson, Harry Nilsson, and Randy Newman

This is what this list is all about. Never heard of John Prine, and probably never would have, as it's not my go to genre, but BOY oh BOY, I loved this. First play it was a 4, with a couple of lyrics jumping out at me. Second play and I'm hooked. Hello in there ...wow Country Folk Poetry I'm off to listen to more

Forgot how profound he is

Very good album!

One of my favorite albums of all time. This one is just fantastic.

A very surprising new favorite

Observer of human foibles. A natural story teller. And the closest of the "next Dylans* to actually achieve that mantle. It's the piercing humor and the utter humanity of these stories that sets him apart. As well as his embrace of the slightly offbeat. What this man does with three chords and some funny asides is nothing short of magical. A true American original.

Always great

Prine manages to tackle post Vietnam opioid addiction, environmental protection, faux patriotism, TV’s evils, marijuana legalization, and everyday life - all with a wry salt-of-the-earth grin. Like only he can. Truly a master of his art, which is also singular. All hail John Prine!

Bogte kakav songwriting

I wept

A legend.

John fucking Prine. This record is not a greatest hits collection; it just feels that way. Almost every song on this record is a pure classic: he's funny, he's incisive, he tells stories, he is sad as hell. Seriously, this is better songwriting than 99% of anybody. And I used to feel like Prine was overproduced, but this is gorgeously done. Crushingly good. An American treasure.

Automatic 5 for “Angel From Montgomery” but would have earned it even without.

A classic debut album from one of the all time American greats. A delight to listen to this morning and an easy 5 stars.

Listened Before? N Amazing! Humor mixed with social commentary and protest songs. I loved this. Added to Library? N Songs added to playlist: Your Flag Decal Won't Get You into Heaven Anymore

I think if I came into this album with no extra knowledge about it, knowing nothing but this guy's name, I probably still would have liked it. I mean, it's country music, y'know? Sure, yeah, it's a bit folksier than usual, but there's still a pedal steel guitar hangin' around. Just on a sound and aesthetic level, I would've given it a thumbs up. But I ended up reading a quote on the album's Wikipedia page from Bob Dylan, where he said that John Prine was one of his favorite writers. And I'm thinking, "Oh, yeah? He **is** now, is he? Well, just allow me, someone who can barely pay attention to or understand lyrics, be the judge of that!" Like, if he's so good that Dylan is singing his praise, and y'also got Kris Kristofferson saying that he writes like he has 220 years of experience... Well, **is** he **that good**? Yeah, I'd say so. Off the top, I feel like I'd wanna call this guy the "country Bob Dylan." After all, he's certainly got the voice for it, and I don't think his topics are too far off from what Dylan would sing about. But then, here's the big difference between the two of them, and why I honestly like this guy's album a lot more than any Dylan I've heard: I can understand the lyrics. Which, I know, I've gone on before about how I worry about seeming unintelligent or shallow about not getting Dylan's big, important, scholarly poetry — but dammit, like with Tracy Chapman, sometimes it's just nice to get what the words are saying. And while Prine isn't as direct as Chapman; he's still pretty poetic, I can actually get into what he's saying and feeling the words. And I suppose part of that comes from Prine being way more of a country artist than a folk singer-songwriter. The folk singer-songwriter types, they wanna be **deep, man**, so they're often a little obtuse in what they're actually trying to say. Meanwhile, with country — well, at least this older kind of country music, it's all about stories, so on a level they can't be too unclear. And, well, also, as someone who loves a bit of story in their music... So, yeah, y'know, these are just good stories. Great stories, even, that really touch on something. Like, if he's missing the pure poetics of folk singer-songwriters, then for sure, he's still got the sound like what he's singing about is very important. And heck, some of it is even still relevant to this day — I can't begin to think of how many people I think should hear "Your Flag Decal Won't Get You Into Heaven". Jus',goodness. I never woulda guessed how much I would end up liking this album, but damn, does John Prine have a way with words. Put them over some good pedal steel and fiddle, and, damn, if this ain't a real winner and a half. Just makes it all the sadder to find out that he passed away only five years ago, from complications thanks to gawdamm COVID-19. It's clear just from this alone how much of a talent he was, and, dang it, even at 73 he was taken away far too soon. Hope you had a good time when you got to Heaven, Prine.

That’s an easy 5. Color me impressed; I’ve never heard of John Prine until today, but his songwriting chops evoked an immediate level of nostalgia that I didn’t really know I had in me. This is country music, and it’s the slice-of-life old school country I love to preach about whenever it comes up, but this has the added benefit of being beautifully & vividly written. When he’s trying to nail down some comedy, he certainly can, like on “Your Flag Decal Won't Get You Into Heaven Anymore”, but he can just as easily switch it on a dime to evoke a deep sense of sobering reality, as on tracks like “Sam Stone”. This album tackles everything from the power of nostalgia, to the consequences of reminiscing, to the blind loyalty present in jingoism & patriotism, and perhaps most effectively, the fear of the mundane. Of course, the songwriting wouldn’t mean anything if he didn’t have the vocals or instrumentals to back it up, but thankfully, he does – my brain immediately goes to the comparison of “Willie Nelson’s twang with a Bob Dylan rhythm”, and it’s a lovely blend that evokes both of them really nicely. Instrumentally, while this leans mostly into the acoustic side of things, there’s a lot of steel guitar, fiddle work, and even a great electric guitar solo on “Pretty Good”. Nothing ever overshadows each other, with the instrumentals and vocals giving themselves space to breathe, and the lyricism still shining through with the way the vocals are just slightly elevated in the mix. As far as listening to this album goes, even if you somehow manage to ignore the lyrics, it’s just 44 really smooth minutes that never find a dull spot. However, doing that would sell both this album & yourself incredibly short. As an entire package, this just fits right in line with my sensibilities. It’s just an album that feels full of life, with a living, breathing soul to it that feels lost nowadays. Rolling Stone once called John Prine the “Mark Twain of American songwriting”, and I’m honestly inclined to believe them after just 13 tracks. If nothing else, as a debut album, this comes out swinging & never really slows down, and you can’t ask for a better beginning than that. I hope he’s got more on the list, but even if he doesn’t, I feel like I need to listen to more of him. For my tastes, it’s an easy, easy 5.

As an eternal shuffler I hadn't thought about the track list on this album and thought 'oh cool John Prine's debut, solid 4 stars probably'. Illegal Smile, Hello In There, Sam Stone, Pretty Good all songs that could individually push an album up to 5 star range. An album with Angel From Montgomery is a 5 star album. Lots that is both unflinching & nonjudgmental. My only complaint about John Prine's first albums is that I like some of the solo recordings from a BBC broadcast from London in 1973 even more. I once thought there was way too much instrumentation on the albums - why take a force of nature performer and run it through the 1970s big budget folk album process? but they didn't ruin anything. It's 2025 now and we get to have all kinds of versions. 5 frickin stars. music: appreciated. (⌐■_■)

Not familiar with Prine at all. So this was a pleasant surprise, this is a really strong album. Lyrically it elevates the album so much you don't even mind you're listening to country. Highly recommended.

Perfect songwriting across the board. Nobody did it like John. 5/5

John Prine tackles war, government, jingoism, aging, drugs, depression, relationships, the environment and a host of other topics with perceptive and unflinching observations of humans and humanity. The organ warms itself against the stark lyrics. The guitars wander from folk to country with occasional touches of rock to elevate the stories. Every song on this album is a gem. Experiencing them together as an album is a powerful and emotional experience. This is an album that will connect you more deeply to your humanity if you are willing to listen. An amazing work of art that I will listen to again and again. RIP John Prine

An album I have listened to only once prior. Like Paul Simon, the diction in the lyrics conveys a ton of information without getting in the way. Beautiful music with an honorable sentiment.

I didn't get into Mr. Prine unfortunately until after his death. Every musician and songwriter I love had nothing but incredible things to say about him - so naturally I had to dive in. If I listened to him 10 years ago I would've said no thanks. I'm glad i've grown and my tastes have changed - because lyrically it's as great as they come. And they're so simple and never try too hard. "Bowl of oatmeal tried to stare me down and won, and it was twelve o'clock before I realized That i was havin, no fun". Just disregarding all syllable rules and instincts a lot of songwriters follow. It just seems so easy(it's not). RIP Mr Prine. Thanks for aspiring everyone I love.

Silly sounding songs With serious artistry And complex critiques

Banger after banger. RIP to one of the best to ever do it

This is a great album. The only thing is it doesn’t include my current favorite song of all time which is "Lake Marie" on "Lost Dogs and Mixed Blessings". Nevertheless, this has Hello in There, Sam Stone and Angel from Montgomery and so many others. 4.53

I went into this ready to hate it but I am so surprised by how much I enjoyed it. Is this what they mean when they say country used to be good? Dude’s got strong one liners, great stories, and really hates the Vietnam war. Sam Stone is one of the most devastating songs I’ve ever heard. The instrumentals aren’t amazing but they’re exactly what this needs. A perfect example of an album you need to hear before you die, especially if you wouldn’t have otherwise like I wouldn’t have.

I love everything about John Prine. I love the simple arrangements and the pithy lyrics. I wish we also got Bruised Orange on this list. 5/5 and I will always have a place for these songs. Your flag decal won’t get you into heaven anymore is relevant today just switch the lyrics around a little to “red hats”

4.6 the lyrics, the rich folk melody, goodness me

Whats interesting is how much John Prine I recognized, my Dad used to play his songs on guitar all the time for as long as I remembered, so this was a nostalgia trip. Just good, wholesome song writing from a folk legend.

Easy 5 stars. This album speaks to life, the destructive nature of man, loss and more all wrapped up in a fun folksy country twang. It has everything!

One of the best there ever was.

Ole John Prine, great protest album

I'm less than a minute into the first song and I hear a strong slowdown of the tempo as he goes into the chorus. I'm immediately interested. This is a great album, well written, and good sounding. John Prine is lyrically great on this album. The storytelling is good. This is an album that I'll easily revisit. Easy 5 stars from me on this one, I couldn't want more. I'll need to do a dive on John Prine. I'm hoping he doesn't have the same 1st album syndrome as many others, where their initial release is amazing (presumably because they've had years to sharpen those sets of songs), but their subsequent releases are lackluster (presumably due to time demands of their new record deals).

bro sounds so bob dylan alike

Loved it. I've got into John Prine recently having not really known him, but since getting in to him I realised he pops up in a lot of other things and influences.

But a question ain’t really a question If you know the answer, too. Best. Song Writer. Ever.

"Sweet songs never last too long on broken radios" John Prine is just so good. I haven't dove/dived/diven too deeply into his discography.

if you rated this a 1 because “country music” you are never seeing the kingdom of heaven. love this album <3

John Prine is on the Mount Rushmore of songwriters.

Album art: 5 especially for the story of it

One of the best!

Fantastic album. Great songwriting. It's probably a 9.5/10 for me, rounding up

Came across John Prine about two years ago.Had never heard of him before, he is easily one of my faves. The best at what he does!

A genuine masterpiece.

Good country album with enough edge and flair to differentiate itself from the usual country genre fare. 4.5/5 Giving it a five so I remember to give it another listen

4.5 To quote a great line from Zoe Muth "When you said you’d never heard of John Prine Well I knew right away you weren’t worth my time"

What a joy to listen to. One of the nicest country albums to listen to. The vocals are first and foreman and are easy to listen to and pretty fun and witty. Just a joy of varied country and folk music.

Very Good album. A collection of his ballads with a message. Very simple lyrics and always a great hook. I enjoyed this ver much.

4.7

First time I have ever heard a John Prine album. This has a lot of the makings of Steve Goodman and early Buffett, which shouldn't be a surprise, I guess. Quite a few songs on here are about war and how it sucks, which also shouldn't be a surprise given the time period. "There's a whole in daddy's arm where the money goes, Jesus Christ died for nothing I suppose." That's a great line from "Sam Stone." I'm very glad that I got a chance to hear this album and I think I'm going to need to do a deep dive into his work. I've neglected listening for so long, partly because everyone tells me how brilliant he is, which makes the contrarian in me want to not like his music. Unfortunately for my contrarian leanings, I do like it.

A classic for a reason

John Prine isn’t the style I normally go for but I love his stuff.

Great album, introduced me to ‘country music’ (belatedly) and has been a great favourite since.

Prine was always an undervalued songsmith, and his first album is one of the greatest ever written.

Wow, I was a bit blown away how great the lyrics were. An easy listen.

I’ve always loved John Prine. This is a stellar album of him.

"How can a person go to work in the morning, come home in the evening, and have nothing to say?" John Prine will have you thinking about the tough questions in life while charming your ass off with the exceptional country album.

More Hip Hop and more Punk than most albums in this list. Never thought I would enjoy Country Music.

Great

Masterpiece?

This is why I am doing this generator. I would have probably never listened to this otherwise and it is great. The lyrics are such a spectrum between laugh out funny and depressingly sad. Compositionally, I'm digging the classic country twain but also there is a song that has a waltz feel, another one that has 6/8 feel, and of course just a solid down the road 4/4. It's not sterile whatsoever and keeps you guessing throughout. I started this album review with a 4/5 but no, I'm going 5/5. This is the type of album that makes you just sit back and just appreciate that music exists.

Supreme storytelling. Simple but effective instrumentation. John Prine is simply that dude. I bet Wes Anderson loves this album.

pretty good, not bad, can’t complain

One of the most influential country artists ever. Storytelling and lyricist savant. Country wouldn’t be what it is today without him. John Prine was one of the pandemics first “famous” victims. RIP! His music will live on forever!

Makes you feel like a cowboy fr

Love John Prine and love this record. His songwriting is so witty and funny and poignant. He has so many great records but there are some true gems on this one

"Pretty Good" is a banger. "Your Flag Decal Won't Get You Into Heaven Anymore" lyrics are just as relevant today. "Angel From Montgomery" is perfection. Not every song stands the test of time, but enough of it is so good, you can't help but feel it in your heart.

YAAAAAY

That was a treat! I like his songwriting a lot. Best country artist in my opinion!

Where has this been hidden? This is exactly why I started using this app. Amazing stuff

One of the greatest song writers of all time. Funny, earnest, kind hearted, lovable, working class. His whole career is full of excellent material. One thing I love about John is he sings as characters often, Angel From Montgomery starts “I am an old woman” it’s about being old, lost, confused, wishing for more, to restart. It’s absolutely heartbreaking, and absolutely beautiful. Flag Decal and Sam Stone, probably the two biggest songs, are both anti-war songs, one with humor and one with tragedy. Both are poignant, both stand as some of the best critiques of Vietnam. Donald and Lydia has two of the least likely protagonists of a love song, the punch line being the two of them masturbating far away, never actually meeting. But Prine finds the beauty in that! It’s a joke, but one you laugh with! One that shows the beauty of life and love. That’s why I love him and his art so much. He holds a magnifying glass to humanity, warts and all, and is rightfully critical of evil, but often leaves me feeling happy about people and the world in general.

Amazing but so depressing. Nothing changes....

Goat

All time album.

Phenomenal. 5 stars. Lyrically extremely underrated. Paradise is best track.

A hell of a debut full of songs that are pretty much standards now. There is a wisdom and emotional depth that is years beyond the young man who wrote them. He has an uncanny ability to tell everyone’s store.

Simply one of the best. Almost every song on this album is perfect for campfire noodling. A genuine troubadour and storyteller. I love this album and I love John Prine.

I have seen this name, but never heard him before. I do not normally go for this genre, but wow I was floored by how catchy and gripping it was! A little twangy protesty poignant Dylan/American Pie. This is a five star new album

Goat

John Prine is probably the best american song writer not enough people talk about and this album is full of some exceptional pieces of work.

It’s like reading the poetry notebook of the guy who goes to the townie bar every night, orders a Shirley Temple, and never says a word to anyone, but will sit there people-watching until close. It’s funny, it’s critical, it’s got social commentary, it’s sad, it’s heartfelt. And musically, it’s engaging and varied; the acoustic, folk-adjacent songs have just enough of a backing band to keep you invested, but they can also kick it up a notch and melt your face off, too. I’ve only heard this once before when a friend put it on his record player for me, and I liked it then, but this time I can really dig into it and appreciate how deep Prine is, both sonically and lyrically. And I think there’s a lot to dig in to here, and both elements are very well balanced, which makes it even better. Even as someone who isn’t a huge fan of Country music, this is an instant standout.

Just listen to the words of his songs. They are special.

I really started enjoying the late great John Prine about 5 years ago. Wish I had paid attention much earlier. A great debut album. Songwriter excellence. Love his lyrics from the first album all the way through to his last one. Great music. He is missed. $&@% Covid!

A diamond of a song writer. The master of stories recording a pretty much perfect first album

Great!

“There's a hole in daddy's arm where all the money goes Jesus Christ died for nothin' I suppose” Damn that’s good. I dig this. Sam Stone is a gut punch... Pretty Good is also pretty biting and catchy as hell. Your Flag... has a strong message that carries on. The recording is great for the era and style... But the lyrics especially jump out unlike most stuff does for me. This guy is awesome. This is a surprise 4.5.

Way way better than any other album I’ve heard recently

Super weird, seems like it wouldn’t be my jam. And yet, this album is just fantastic.

I have this album hanging on the wall in my basement. I just love every song on this. A friend of mine got me into John Prine about 20 years ago. He is such a wonderful storyteller. Plus he is a pretty guitar player as well. Great, great album from someone we lost way too soon.

Great songs sung well. Wonderful story telling.

It's great when someone surpasses your expectations. Simple stories, told with no drama, but so many leave a year or two behind.

Rootin and/or tootin

Has there ever been a better lyric than: "There's a hole in daddy's arm where all the money goes/ Jesus Christ died for nothin' I suppose" ... um, no. John Prine is an American treasure. What a tragedy that we lost him to COVID.

1971 - Country-folk; progressive country; Americana. Humorous lyrics about love, life, and current events, as well as serious songs about melancholy tales from his life. elements of social commentary and satire Wikipedia

Absolute classic!

9/10 lots of fun super well written folk songs :)

This album is amazing. Really interesting storytelling and catchy tunes. I don't think I've ever listened to this album all the way through but I found myself knowing a lot of the songs. Pretty relatable lyrics and some of them are really clever/ironic. A staple in folk/country. It's too bad covid took John Prine.

Probably my favorite song writer of all time. John Prine tells the most visceral stories about love, relationships, loss, loneliness, sadness, America, politics, and he always does an with underlying tone of humor. I love that his songs are about *things* but he sings them in the form of stories and characters that he calls by name. Cathy, Loretta, Sam, Dad etc. He writes about a real America and real American people, but it's neither negative or positive. It's just stories that anyone can listen and relate to. I feel like I've met every person that he sings about. My favorite songs: -Illegal Smile, these is maybe the most underrated weed song ever. Its so funny. I like the story of it and the underlying message. -Spanish Pipedream, another song showcasing John's humor. This song is kind of silly, but also a good message. -Sam Stone, have you ever heard a song so visceral about a Vet? "there's a hole in Daddy's arm where all the money goes. Jesus Christ died for nothing, I suppose." Woah. This song is incredible. - Hello In There, who freakin writes a song about aging empty nesters and the loneliness involved? This song gives me the chills. - Paradise, maybe environmental protest song ever. I freaking love this song. I especially love how it ends: "when I die, let my ashes flow down the Green River, let my ashes roll up to to Rochester Dam, I'll be halfway to heaven, with Paradise waiting, just 5 miles away from wherever I am." I love that this song is a serious environmental song, but he still incorporates his dark sense of humor. - Pretty Good, not my favorite but I do like the humor and the bluesy guitar riffs. This one is a little more wild and edgy. - Your Flag Decal Won't Get You Into Heaven Anymore, has any song been more relevant to conservatism in America? I love how in this song he covers his truck in American Flags and then crashes it and dies and God won't let him into heaven. - Far From Me, I love the complicated relationship in this song. And I love how he uses a broken bottle as an metaphor for marriage. - Angel from Montgomery, the penultimate John Prine songs. This song always gives me the chills. I love the story about a relationship, hope, loneliness, love. Its got it all. I don't even know what to say other than I'm grateful that this song has been in my life for as long as it has. (this is also one that Meg and I play / sing a lot in our living room and have for years.) - Quiet Man, lesser known but still a great story. - Donald and Lydia, the poetry in this one. Lydia's story and then Donald's and then Love. And I love how he tells about them making love, but how they were really very far away. Funny, but real. - Six O'Clock News, "come on baby, spend the night with me." This song is sentimental at the surface, and then realize its the saddest most heartbreaking song ever. - Flashback Blues, this one is fun. Ironic, funny. Just good.

Love love love John Prine…a legend of epic songwriting lyrics, great music for decades. He has been greatly missed since he passed

Never really listened to him, loved this album.

I first heard this about 3 years and was in complete amazement. I adore this album.

Every song on this record touches my heart. Prine wrote everything he saw with all his soul, and this is the pinnacle to me. He certainly created a lot of impactful music long after this record released, but nothing of his touches this one.

These were songs of my childhood. My sisters & I busked towns in the Midwest playing, amongst other things, several songs from this album.

Songwriting genius.

Ecstatic seeing this come up. A favourite of mine

Every song a story capturing moments of America. Brilliant!

I really like this one: Twangy vocals, unadorned folk and country music blend, and really great songwriting.

loved it. witty and thought provoking. need to listen to more of him

A masterpiece.

At the time of writing this, Toby Keith has been dead for less than 48 hours and the story where Kris Kristofferson says what Keith did to country music is what pantyhose did to finger fucking is making the rounds. Appropriately, the debut album by Kristofferson’s protégé is a pure example of going commando and getting right in there.

Bob Dylan's Dylan and Johnny Cash's Cash. The folk-rock-country musicians' musician that is accessible, wry, funny and a great story teller. John Prine should be more well known that he is.

John Prine was a gift to all of us trying to relax and not take life so seriously. This album is just a talented guy singing his thoughts out loud, and its so simple, that its amazing.

Grim and dustbitten! Aika kova. En yleensä countrya nii paljoo, mut tää kyl kolisee.

Amazing

John Prine starts a song with "I am an old woman" and you believe him.

Strong contender for the quintessential country album. Prine's pen was among the best to ever write - 'Sam Stone', 'Paradise', 'Angel from Montgomery', and 'Donald and Lydia' are prime examples.

love!

Easy 5. Country/folk isn’t necessarily my genre, but I absolutely loved this album. I’ve heard about John Prine for a long time, but never dove in - glad 1001 gave me the chance. Favorites include Paradise, Your Flag Decal Won’t Get You Into Heaven Anymore, and Pretty Good. Every song is good and there are great session players on the record.

A Country-folky sound with a existential streak, this is a great album that leaves no subject untouched. Patriotism/war, drugs, addiction, the environment, relationships, growing old, suicide This is some powerful, vivid songwriting. I can see why was admired and had such an influence on so many. All the songs are gems but Sam Stone, Pretty Good, and Angel from Montgomery are among my favorites.

RIP. Great album

I love it. I'd give it a 6 if I could.

I was surprised by this one

Måske det bedste album jeg har opdaget gennem det her projekt indtil videre! Post-hippie-folk mesterværk, fanget på det der super spændende tidspunkt hvor hardcore 60er optimisme bliver til hardcore 70er pessimisme fordi man finder ud af at man ikke har løst en skid. I went to a flower power demonstrations and all I got was this stupid heroin addiction. Heldigt at han er sjov og at lyden er virkelig lækker, ellers havde det her sgu været for deprimerende.

an all timer, one of the kings of sad as fuck country still being a good time

yeah this is good stuff. I listened to more than just this john prine yesterday

An accessible and likeable midwestern Bob Dylan.

John Prine has a rare gift for being able to tackle very weighty and political subjects, but remains heartfelt, unsentimental, but warm and funny. That’s a rare thing I think that’s what sets him apart from many of his peers. This is a special album.

Easy top 5 of this project so far. This album rocks.

Loved it!

Folk country that is funny, sad, and political so at once. Someone needs to remind new country that their flag decals won't get them into heaven anymore.

Super! Malo Bob Dylan, al manje pretenciozan.

Early 70s rock classic

A poison pill wrapped in beauty and humor, this album is amazing. Bittersweet. The language is simple, yet clever and devastatingly potent. The arrangements are delicate, lovely and pastoral. The humor softens the bleakness. Truly an album of the human condition. The protests are potently stated for lack of stridency. Sick people in a sick country consuming themselves through appetitive desires, imperialism and capitalism. It yearns for a simpler, more rural solution to the ailments of the world, but these are but fantantasia. A eulogy for America. Folk/country music relies on the strength of the lyrics, and this album would be near impossible to be surpasses on that measure. The production has a light touch. No strings or studio tricks here. But that works very well because it puts Prime, his unpretentious, sincere vocal delivery and lyrics at the forefront. The backing band is gentle and melodic with sweet phrases of lap steel and occasional violin. There is zero new musical ground being broken here, but it serves its strengths perfectly. A beautiful, pure, honest work of art

Excellent

LP

5.0

The king

The Man

Stone cold classic. 10/10

This is my ideal form of folk/country music. Sweet without being sappy, simple without being condescending, with a biting wit and the catchiest choruses you could ask for. I’m gonna listen to this all the time.

Some of the best country songs I've ever heard. Loved Prine's lyrics, especially on Flag Decal and Angel from Montgomery.

Classic Prine

Lyrically this album is excellent and is a way to dive into folk music

such a great songwriter

John Prine is one of my favourite country/folk artists. He has a way to spin song lyrics that can make you laugh or make you cry, or both. This man was a poet. One of the best lyricists in the genre. This album deals heavily with the Vietnam war, and the troubles faced by the veterans when they came home (Sam Stone is an absolutely heartbreaking song. Prine's lyrics spin such a vibrant story. You almost feel like you knew Sam Stone personally). My all time favourite Prine song is on this record, Spanish Pipedream. It is such a hilarious and poignant song! "Blow up your TV Throw away your paper Go to the country Build you a home Plant a little garden Eat a lot of peaches Try an' find Jesus on your own" Your Flag Decal Won't Get You Into Heaven Anymore is an amazing anti-war song that is still so relevant today. Angel From Montgomery is an absolutely amazing song. I absolutely love Prine's music. I am not much of a country fan, but I always had a soft spot for this man's ability to tell a story. The man passed away a few years ago, but wrote music right up until the end. He wrote a song on his last album to be released before his death (the Tree of Forgiveness) called When I Get to Heaven which has the most beautiful lyrics: "And then I'm gonna get a cocktail Vodka and ginger ale Yeah, I'm gonna smoke a cigarette that's nine miles long I'm gonna kiss that pretty girl on the tilt-a-whirl 'Cause this old man is goin' to town" Amen Mr. Prine, Amen. I believe you did do all of those things. Thanks for the amazing music. RIP. Favourite songs: Spanish Pipedream, Angel From Montgomery, Your Flag Decal Won't Get You Into Heaven Anymore, Sam Stone, Donald and Lydia, Illegal Smile, Hello in There, Paradise, Six O'Clock News, Quiet Man, Flashback Blues, Far From Me Least favourite songs: None.... It's all gold 5/5: perfection on record.

I really liked it. It's old country but the lyrics don't take themselves seriously and the instrument work is excellent. John's voice is very nice also.

9/10 emotional rollercoaster of an album, simple arrangements but stellar songwriting

“Twenty-four years old and writes like he's two-hundred and twenty” A shame I can't find the person who said this, but this sentence sums up John Prine's self titled very fittingly! This record leaves me speechless. Wow, just wow, the lyrics are so livid, intense, real and from the heart. John Prine is an ACE songwriter, right up there besides Dylan and other great songwriters. These songs are orchestrated beautifully and the stories channeled through the lyrics accompany the songs very well! Very powerful record! This is an album I doubt I'll ever forget. Favorite lyrics: - Ah, but fortunately I have the key to escape reality. - Chased a rainbow down a one-way street, dead end. And all my friends turned out to be insurance salesmen. - For I knew that topless lady. Had something up her sleeve. - There's a hole in Daddy's arm where all the money goes. Jesus Christ died for nothin',I suppose. Little pitchers have big ears, don't stop to count the years. Sweet songs never last too long on broken radios. - Well, they dug for their coal till the land was forsaken. Then they wrote it all down as the progress of man. - Moonlight makes me dizzy. Sunlight makes me clean. Your light is the sweetest thing. That this boy has ever seen. - Ain't it funny how an old broken bottle. Looks just like a diamond ring? - If dreams were lightning, and thunder were desire. This old house would have burnt down a long time ago. - But that was a long time and no matter how I try. The years just flow by like a broken-down dam. - Just give me one thing that I can hold on to. To believe in this living is just a hard way to go. - Oodles of light, what a beautiful sight. Both of God's eyes are shining tonight. Rays and beams of incredible dreams. And I am a quiet man. Key tracks: Illegal Smile, Spanish Pipedream, Hello In There, Sam Stone, Paradise, Pretty Good, Your Flag Decal Won't Get You Into Heaven Anymore, Angel From Montgomery, Six O'Clock News 9,5 out of 10

I had a boss who was really upset when John Prine died at the beginning of the pandemic, and now I know why. "Subversive" isn't really strong enough a word. To be playing songs like these in a country circle must've gotten him hell. Whip-smart, funny lyrics; great, catchy melodies. Favorite tracks: "Your Flag Decal Won't Get You Into Heaven", "Illegal Smile", "Flashback Blues"

Before today, the only John Prine album I'd listened to was 'Tree of Forgiveness,' which I'm pretty sure I listened to in the year of its release. I remember thinking it was really good, but it also wasn't exactly my cup of tea, so I never listened to any more of his work, even after his passing a few years ago. That was a mistake. This album is insanely good. I don't think I've ever heard lyrics like this before. I love that Prine doesn't sugarcoat anything, and there's no room to guess as to what message he's trying to convey. While his messages are straightforward, the imagery and language he uses are a little more "elevated," (that's the best way I could think to phrase it) and it completely works here. The instrumentation isn't anything extravagant, and it doesn't need to be. The main attraction here is the message, and the music is the conduit that Prine uses to convey his message. This is an amazing album, and I look forward to listening to more of Prine's work.

Exceptional songwriting; funny and thoughtful. 5*

Way better than Dylan. Clever songs, great simple melodies. Super fun album.

Powerful country-folk, I was especially moved by "Sam Stone" and "Angel From Montgomery" :'( They're all so sad.

Looking forward to hearing more.

This album is well done! Hot dog bun! My sisters a nun!

Best of the best.

John Prine was quite simply, one of the greatest songwriters of the 20th century. He had the ability to tell the stories of others with striking empathy and humor. Whether it was from the perspective of the lonely old in 'Hello in There,' the story of a Vietnam War veteran who came home with a heroin habit in 'Sam Stone', or from the perspective of an older woman who never got to live the life she dreamed of in 'Angel From Montgomery', John Prine could be trusted to tell that story faithfully. His songs became instant classics and his loss will be felt for a long time.

I will always love John Prine. His lyrics are so balanced in profundity and unpretention. So wonderful. And oh boy is “your flag decal won’t get you into heaven” still relevant today

man i love vintage country so much

Wild that I can enjoy country when it's a little more anti-capitalist, talks about drugs, and is genuinely clever and witty.

I'm quite baffled that I didn't know this before.. that's just right for me, really nothing to object to Perfection

Wow. Just… wow. Gorgeous music that paints a painful picture of a very real and imperfect world.

Fun!

Made me found jeezas

such a good vibe

Bit of a surprise, worth revisiting

And this is his FIRST album. Jesus Christ, what a talent.

One of my personal favorites, I know every word to every song on this album. My dad played John Prine records all through my childhood. Prine was an American treasure, one of the greatest song writers ever. This album is perfect. Favorite track: Paradise

Only heard of him recently after his passing. RIP Excellent album

Haven’t listened to much folk but this was some of the best folk music I’ve ever heard. Loved the general vibe and the lyrics.

cool

The singing mailman is one of my faves.

Beautiful

I'm not the biggest country fan, but this is the type of country music I enjoy. It's also cool to hear all these songs that I've heard other singers cover in later years. Really appreciate how influential John prine was

I really enjoyed this more than I thought I might. The Americana that just drips off this album is so great and Anti Redneck its perfect.

I feel ike John Prine is one of those artists that songwriters always reference and I can certainly see why. Illegal Smile is a great starter, and every song just has so much character. After the first listen I would have said Sam Stone is my fave, it's just so chilling but each song just grows on you.

Such a talented lyricist. I listened to each song as if I was watching a movie, waiting to see what. Happens next. The story telling, he makes it so visual and through it all, even in the saddest tracks, he places humor just right. Amazing

Most underrated singer songwriter of all time!

John Prine is an American treasure. While he always praised for his witty humor, it's his almost gut punch emotional songs on this album that get, Hello in There and especially Sam Stone, wow just powerful stuff. Yeah this deserves to on the list.

This is a stellar album. Prine can tell a visual story with just his words and is one of the strongest songwriters of the era. Really excellent album, and glad I got to listen to it again.

Just as relevant now as then. Excellent

lovely album, phoebe bridgers must be inspired by this

An American treasure.

How have I never heard this album? Great from beginning to end. Albums like tis is why I'm here.

Very good country album

Great storyteller

Excellent guitar, good balance of songs equally witty, powerful, emotional. I love John Prime. RIP

Ahhh, the eponymous debut of a terrific song writer. The themes here may diverge from one another, but on the whole it plays like a greatest hits record. Prine swings for the fences here and connects on nearly every song. I suppose it makes sense - he had his whole life to write the songs that appeared here, and it shows in everything from the musical arrangements to the turns of lyrical phrase. I must admit that I've never cared for his voice, but he delivers the songs earnestly and with feeling. Top notch for the genre.

A fantastic reminder of how good country music can be.

John Prine is pretty good.

Beautiful. Just absolutely immersive listening. This is storytelling and songwriting. This is not folk. This isn't bluegrass. This isn't country. It's John Prine and this is music I can get behind. Highlight Tracks: ALL

I'd never even heard of this guy before this morning! Lol. I understand he's big in the States... I love the album. Added to my portable music player before I'd even finished listening to it, and will definitely check out more of his stuff.

I never thought I consider giving a country album 5 stars. Maybe it’s the content I usually dislike as much as the delivery? This unpatriotic antiwar album works for me.

Embarrassingly, this was an introduction to me. I only knew the song "Your Flag Decal Won't Get You Into Heaven Anymore." I did realize that I'd heard a few of the other songs, whether performed by John Prine or other artists, but I was so delighted to spend my time with this one. Another walking into work smiling kind of day after listening on my commute. I'm having trouble thinking he was 25 when he recorded this. His voice sounds like he's been around and seen a lot more. There's something special about a song that's so clever or poignant you want to listen to it again and again, and by as many artists as you can find performing it. These songs all feel that way. (And I did.) I've missed out. I wish there were a voice like his in modern day music. We need it.

This record broke my heart and made me laugh out loud. He's a genuine poet and a heck of a story-teller. I loved pretty much every track (even Pretty Good with its glib mention of dog rape (WTH???)). This kind of album is the reason I'm here.

Loved it. Saved forever

The first two songs I learned to play on the guitar are "Paradise" and "Angel From Montgomery". Prine is one of the great songwriters. For a debut album, you can see that he already had an old soul. I need to add "Hello in There" to my list of songs that I can play. (Brandi Carlile did a great version of that track on Colbert - check it out). I've heard this album all the way through more than once, and so many of the songs dozens of times. I was lucky enough to see Prine in concert once, and so many performances on TV. RIP John.

Great lyricist. Sam stone is a great song

Incredible song writer. Even better storyteller. Josh Ritter, Dylan, Prine. He's in high cotton here.

Really good listen to it on repeat like 4 times

nossa, audição muito facilitada, incrível o album

It took me a couple of listens to warm up to this album, but it's impossible not to feel its considerable charms if you stop and listen. The fact that this a debut album from a man who was 24 years old when he recorded it makes it even more remarkable. Singers can work for decades without reaching Prine's depth as a songwriter and natural talent for delivering a line. These are songs that have become standards in the 50 years since they came out, and you can hear Prine in practically every singer-songwriter who came after him. He exudes warmth, wry wit, and sensitivity with such ease in these songs. You know, I first caught "Your Flag Decal Won't Get You Into Heaven Anymore" before I had really heard of Prine and I assumed it was some sort of post 9/11 song. No, it's just a sad testament to the fact that this nation perennially fails to learn from its mistakes. It's also a pretty brutal takedown of false patriotism, all the more cutting for how he delivers it with humor. "Sam Stone" and "Paradise" also highlight how the problems of 50 years ago are still somehow the problems of today and remain fresh all these years later. Favorite songs: Quiet Man, Angel from Montgomery, Far from Me.

Country / Folk Wow, this is hilarious. Solid songwriting - made me laugh out loud multiple times. Every song is golden.

Classic.

Prine always amazing.

Stands up af. Major flashbacks to Vassar howdowns.

Soprendendente. Maravilloso... Make me an angel...

Top 10 all-time album.

An album I've been very fond of for a while now. Prine for me is a songwriter that transcends his genre, and connects with something primal and human. Lovely stuff. If country music is the music of the people, then there's none more country than this.

Surprisingly really good. And I noticed that after I found out it's not technically country I liked it better, which is something I need to work on.

Pretty damm good

THE BEST EVER RIP SIR

What a solid slice of Americana. I could get behind this country music

One of Prine's best albums, this is the country side of Dylan, but on the side that has inspired so many great alternative country and indie-folk bands. This is simple music with an attitude, a huge sense of humor and sarcasm, this is the way it should be done. Prine was an ignored artist most of his life, but at least his music became appreciated before we lost him to Covid-19. Prine will be sorely missed.

Great song writing

⭐⭐⭐⭐ Bra country album. Berättandet och texterna är dess främsta tillgång. Det är enkelt, rakt och fyndiga texter. Jag är antingen av eller på när det kommer till country men detta tillhör det senare. Inga sänken till spår. Bäst är Spanish pipedream, Hello in there, Sam Stone, Angel from Montgomery

one of those guys that sings like a buzzer going off. it's not bad though, he's even kinda funny

Prine was always a good story teller and those stories were told with such humor, insight and poignancy. I've enjoyed his music for 40+ years.

First time listen, never heard of John Prine until now. The similarity too Dylan is obvious, but that's no bad thing. So I enjoyed it and thought it decent. Will listen again so it must be alright.

Pretty good, nice voice, good songs. Not something I'd listen to super often, but I enjoyed it.

Prine's great, isn't he?

A surprising good listen for me, sounds very Bob Dylan with vocals you can understand.

I dislike most country, but here is an exception. The lyrics he wrote are just too good to deny.

great album. i have heard all the accolades given to him, but i never listened to him. this album is a home run.

Absolutely love this album. This was an absolute hidden gem I never heard of.

I REALLY liked this. will be looking for a record of it. I love the anti-war messaging

'Pretty Good' and 'Flag Decal...' are top quality social commentary. If I'd had an album of these it would have been incredible. Very solid otherwise and once more I'm surprised by a genre I've never really shown a lot of admiration for.

Good album for a long trip through the countryside. Reminds me of Jim Croce.

High 4

Distinctive voice Great songwriting Stripped down music Folk influenced/country influence Sam Stone: great song about Vietnam vet Great album: four stars

Oddly salient over. 50 years later. This is the kind of country I go for. Pretty good stuff.

At first I thought "oh no another Bob Dylan rip off" but the first few tracks were really quite drole and the album grew on me- part late 60s protest, part straight forward country - certainly a few nods to Bobby both pre and post electric - but a unique and compassionate voice coming through. Think Country might be my new thing.

You mean country ISN'T just guns, beer, and a fifth grade education?? As someone who grew up in the midwest and had very little exposure to country as an actual art form as opposed to the squatted truck and thick fake accent poser shit, this album was honestly life-changing. The instrumentals still bore me sometimes, and the songs don't always hit, but thank you John Prine. Thank you for showing me the meaning that can be behind all forms of art, even the "guns and beer" music. A blindspot I was, well, blind too has become extremely apparent to me. Though it won't crack any of my all time lists, this will undoubtedly go down as one of the most impactful albums of the whole 1001 for me. Thank you John Prine. I owe you a great debt. Best: Your Flag Decal Won't Get You Into Heaven Anymore Worst: Spanish Pipedream Liked songs: 9/13, 69% Low 4

Simple but super effective. Great country and folk instrumentation, a very pretty voice, sheer storytelling power and not much more, but what else do you really need? It's a very bittersweet and emotional record, but also feels very honest and homely. Lyrically the album isn't super abstract or metaphorical but it doesn't need to. John is just a regular guy and he tells his stories. It's a very comfy album.

This was my first time listening to John Prine and I’ll definitely do it again soon. This is a really great debut album.

Probably not as keen on the more fun/novelty songs but still a great album 4.5*

Had a bit of a eye roll when clicked on the Wikipedia page and saw country, thinking that this was that predictable sort of country that has all the stereotypes (Jesus, beer, guns, tractor music.) But no, this is not that! It's very country sounding - has that sort of barnyard sound - as you might expect from a country album, but it's that sort of country that has very conscious lyrics about sticking together. It's also fairly political like in "Paradise" which is about corpo's ruining small communities, and anti-Vietnam War themes best exemplified as "...your dirty little war" from "Your Flag Decal..." There's another side to lyrics which is humour. In some songs it feels like it's taking the piss out of bro country even though this album is from 1971, WAY BEFORE the watered-down country music genre. My favourite lyric (which happens to be humorous) is the eyebrow-raising, jaw-dropping "Well done, hot dog bun, my sister's a nun." This is a really great discovery, I feel this one of those album where everything is done just right. Oh and his voice is like Bob Dylan's but more well done. This is a definitely a must-hear album from country. Highlight Song/s: "Illegal Smile", "Spanish Pipedream", "Paradise" and "Your Flag Decal..."

This album deserves 5 stars just for one song, "Your Flag Decal Won't Get You Into Heaven Anymore". :) In all seriousness, most of these songs aren't my cup of tea but I recognize the quality in them.

Prine’s lyrics take this way beyond a quaint if not spectacular folk country album. He was something special, and this record showcases that.