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A Norwegian Prison Tribute to Johnny Cash?

The Delite Rancher | Phoenix, Arizona | 11/25/2007

(4 out of 5 stars)

""We Walk The Line: A Tribute To Johnny Cash" is well done. Despite being performed by what seems to be an all Norwegian line-up, "Inside a Norwegian Prison" doesn't sound European. In fact, this sounds downright Yankee when compared to John Langford's vocals on "Misery Loves Company: The Dark And Lonely World Of Johnny Cash." The setlist is tops, featuring both Johnny Cash's originals and the covers he played so often. All of the expected tunes are here from 'Get Rhythm' and 'Walk the Line' to 'Big River.' Being well balanced, this tribute even includes some material from the Man in Black's American period. Since a different performer sings each song, it keeps the album fresh. The live production is excellent. Compared to the originals, these renditions lean away from the twang and more towards folk and rock. The concept of a live prison tribute to Johnny Cash earns points for originality. Despite this, "We Walk The Line" is performed too literally to be considered essential. That written, it will have high appeal to those who might enjoy listening to more folksy and rockin' interpretations of the Man in Black."