Merle Haggard, The Strangers – I Love Dixie Blues ... So I Recorded "Live" In New Orleans – 1973 – Country / Honky Tonk / Bakersfield Sound (vinyl lp)

Here's a piece of Merle Haggard history that showcases the Okie from Muskogee at his most adventurous. "I Love Dixie Blues" represents Haggard's bold 1973 experiment blending his signature Bakersfield sound with traditional New Orleans jazz and blues. Despite what the title suggests, this wasn't actually recorded live – it's a studio album that captures Haggard and The Strangers exploring brass-heavy arrangements and Dixieland-influenced material that was quite a departure from their usual honky-tonk fare. The album features fascinating interpretations of standards like "Basin Street Blues" and "Bourbon Street Blues" alongside Haggard originals, all filtered through his distinctly country sensibility.

What makes this Capitol pressing particularly noteworthy is how it documents a pivotal moment when Haggard was flexing his musical muscles and proving his versatility beyond the bakersfield sound that made him famous. The production work captures both the spontaneous feel he was aiming for and the tight musicianship of The Strangers, who adapted remarkably well to this jazz-influenced material. For collectors of Haggard's catalog, this represents one of his most underrated and experimental efforts – a fascinating detour that shows an artist unafraid to challenge both himself and his audience's expectations. It's the kind of creative risk-taking that reminds you why Haggard was considered one of country music's most complete artists.

Retro Revolution Records – Halifax, Nova Scotia

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