MERLE HAGGARD
Roots (Anti)
Reviewed by John Sekerka

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When paying homage, there doesn't appear to be such a thing as a half-hearted effort from Merle Haggard. In 1970 Merle gathered the Texas Playboys in tribute to the legendary Bob Wills. And now, three decades on, the Hag tips a big hat to hero Lefty Frizzell. Along for the ride is Lefty's original guitar pal Norman Stephens, a man who supplied the rollicking leads to "If You've Got the Money, I've Got the Time". Besides resurrecting that country classic, four other Lefty originals are covered, along with a couple of Hank tunes (Williams and Thompson of course). Haggard rounds it out with three new compositions, and delivers a surprisingly sublime country record. The pace is relaxed. The players take their time. It's the lazy Sunday session, after a honky tonkin Saturday night. Recorded in Haggard's home, where ancient mikes and plenty of wood define the sound, Roots is a genuine throwback to the glory days of country, and another feather in Haggard's hat. The old man appears to be just getting started.

© 2001 - John Sekerka