Search - Merle Haggard :: It's All in The Game

Like a sweet bouquet

rballjones | Des Moines, IA USA | 11/24/2001

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This record turned me on to Merle Haggard. Driving through the hills of Southern Calif. 1984-5, listening to a little cassette, I discovered a treasure I'd not known before. Haggard's voice could not be better; it's mature, mellow, yet strong and in total control. I think his version of "It's all in the Game" tops the original by a mile. Not only is he in fine form, but he's backed by a crack band; their accompaniment is perfection--especially the guitar player who plays like country and jazz are cousins. This record showed me country can swing and it can have a little complexity. The nuances of love and life are expressed in Haggard's vocals. I always hoped I could find something comparable to this treasure in his subsequent albums but I haven't."