“Hello, I’m Johnny Cash” – and with that iconic phrase the Man in Black launched into a 60 minute homage to the songs of Cash, along with a selection of other country music classics.

Monty Cotton, a regular at FRINGE WORLD, has returned in 2020 with Volume 2 of his acclaimed tribute to country music legend Johnny Cash.

The piazza area outside Rigby’s is the perfect venue for the gig – on a warm Perth night, in the open air, with a beer or wine to hand the crowd was ready and willing to be involved. And involved you must be – Monty demands audience participation – from joining in, loudly, to the chorus line, to clapping along, imitating the crack of a whip, waving arms -and by the finale up on your feet dancing. You cannot help but be caught up in the moment.

With guitar in hand, accompanied by guest Big D on upright bass, Monty ran through the pantheon of hits of Johnny Cash – his voice is spot on, distinctive, but bringing all the passion and excitement of the Cash catalogue.

At one stage he called for a volunteer to play the part of June Carter Cash and sing Jackson and up came a brave, and talented woman, in Megan to do just that – a highlight among many highlights – another of which was a version of Duelling Banjos which certainly got the feet tapping.

As well as the Cash catalogue and a few other country classics, was a segment echoing his Cash Converted show which celebrates Cash’s love of recording covers. The audience throws up suggestions and Monty belts out a version in Johnny’s inimitable style – Kanye West Cash anyone?

A Boy Named Cash has been a sell out at previous festivals here and elsewhere and Volume II is certain to follow suit – so grab a ticket before they all go. You will have a whale of a time.