Fair & Square is John Prine's thirteenth studio album, released in 2005, and his first album of original material in nearly a decade. The album was recorded after Prine overcame lung cancer, which influenced the reflective and grateful tone of the songs. The production was minimalist, with Prine playing acoustic guitar and accompanied by session musicians. The album received critical acclaim and won the Grammy Award for Best Contemporary Folk Album in 2006.
The sound of Fair & Square is acoustic folk and country, with lyrics addressing themes like mortality, love, and everyday life. Notable tracks include 'Glory of True Love', 'Long Monday', and 'Some Humans Ain't Human'. The song 'Crazy as a Loon' is an example of his characteristic humor, while 'The Other Side of Town' shows his more melancholic side. The album is cohesive and mature, reflecting the wisdom of a veteran artist.
Fair & Square is considered a triumphant return for John Prine, proving that his songwriting talent remained intact. The album revitalized his career and won him a new audience, in addition to being recognized with a Grammy. Its legacy endures as a testament to Prine's resilience and creativity, and as a masterpiece of contemporary folk.