In Concert 1983

Merle Haggard

Overview

Die hard "Hag" fans take note -- this vintage 1983 concert performance live from Church Street Station in Orlando, Florida features offers country hits as only the legendary Merle Haggard could perform them.

Product Details

Release Date:	05/15/2007
UPC:	0022891660798
Original Release:	2007
Source:	MUSIC VIDEO DIST.***
Region Code:	A
Sound:	[Dolby Digital Stereo]
Language:	English
Time:	1:20:00
Sales rank:	27,298

Cast & Crew

Performance Credits

Merle Haggard	Performer
Merle Haggard	Primary Artist,Fiddle,Guitar,Vocals
Bonnie Owens	Vocals

Technical Credits

Gary Peet	Executive Producer
Kim Lyon	Executive Producer

Editorial Reviews

This is a fantastic recording of Merle Haggard live at the Cheyenne Saloon & Opera House, which is located in the Church Street Station of Orlando, FL. Haggard, of course, looks like his outlaw self playing an impressive set starting with a very nice "Twinkle Twinkle Lucky Star." To clarify the use of the word "fantastic," it's not that the filming is top-notch -- it's actually a bit dark and grainy -- but the overall performance has spirit and a soulful appeal, not the least of which is Haggard's loose yet still commanding musicianship and presentation. It's a crowded and very busy stage playing to a packed house full of an appreciative audience. On "Corrine Corrina" he pulls out the fiddle, and on a charming rendition of "Faded Love" his ex-wife, Bonnie Owens, duets. The (also) former Mrs. Buck Owens adds a nice element: beautiful harmonies on "That's the Way Love Goes" and a happy presence clapping her hands and lending some vocals to "Okie from Muskogee." The horns and pedal steel guitar feel almost like orchestration behind Merle's twangy guitar, the Fender and Peavey amps creating a clear and precise edge that gives this hardcore country music a bit of a rock & roll feel. Years after it was recorded, roots rockers and those fans picking up the Byrds and Flying Burrito Brothers catalogs will find this episode an inspiring work by a timeless entertainer. An interesting text biography is included on the DVD, along with an equally interesting discography and the usual propaganda from Quantum Leap. An interview with the star or backing musicians, some credits (there are none!), and liner notes would've been a nice addition. ~ Joe Viglione