Image: Merle's Haggard's-1980 Album Back To The Barrooms
Image: Merle Haggard Dicscography Simplified Rating System
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Merle was a hot commodity in the Summer of 1980 following the release of the film "Bronco Billy" starring Clint Eastwood. "Back To The Barrooms" was released in October 1980 following the films release in June. Merle also appears on "The Bronco Billy" soundtrack and claims a #1 hit with Clint Eastwood entitled "Barroom Buddies". Merle was an aging performer that had amassed a faithful following of dedicated fans across the USA. Haggard & The Strangers would perform their music in a newly popular venue in Country Music, the massive sports stadiums! "Barrooms" contains 11 superbly written, produced, performed and recorded tracks making it one of the greatest studio albums of all time. We start with "Misery And Gin". If I remember the story correctly Merle entered the studio in Nashville with no rehearsal of the song. They did 2 takes and went with the first! Most of The Strangers are absent here, but it works beautifully. We end with "I Think I'll Just Stay Here And Drink" a song in which no barroom jukebox would be complete without. On another note we have two of Country Music's greatest studio drummers on the recording. Larrie Londin and Jerry Kroon were responsible for that undeniable 'fat tom' sound (accomplished with concert tom toms). Their method made the 80's an enjoyable period to be a drummer. It was from the two drummers that I would aspire to one myself :) This album was relevant in 1980, and still is to this day! Be sure to check out Merle Haggard's Official Site! |
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