Chicago Wind [Audio CD] Haggard, Merle

Merle Haggard's return to his original label, Capitol Records, has revitalized him creatively and musically. Slick but unobtrusive production by Jimmy Bowen (Haggard's old MCA producer) and Mike Post showcase his vocals--as strong as they've been in years--on a blend of Haggard originals and skillfully chosen covers. The atmospheric title track vividly evokes desolation and loneliness. "Where's All the Freedom" and "Rebuild America First" reflect Haggard's thoughtful, libertarian patriotism, the latter including an unsubtle jab at the war in Iraq. "What I've Been Meaning to Say" and "Mexico" reaffirm Haggard's continued skill at creating brilliant love songs. "Some of Us Fly," a philosophical duet with Toby Keith, showcases Keith's often-underrated skills as a balladeer. The cover numbers--Willie Nelson's "It Always Will Be" and "Leavin's Not the Only Way to Go," one of Roger Miller's more reflective songs--fit hand in glove with the originals. Many perceive Haggard as a legend. Yet on Chicago Wind, he demonstrates the ability to remain timeless, yet thoroughly of the moment. --Rich Kienzle