Customer Reviews

Blue Jungle

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Merle Haggard has a long history of singing patriotic songs but never has he been more powerful or politically incorrect than on the controversial "Me and Crippled Soldiers." This anti-flag burning song has been praised by President George Bush and loved by millions at his live concerts. Unfortunately it came out after country radio stopped playing singers who had passed their 40th birthdays, so it wasn't the hit it should have been.

Two other cuts, "Under the Bridge" and "My Home is in the Street" subtly support Merle's political statement. These tales of down-on-their-luck individuals seem to suggest that Washington DC's powers-that-be could have more important things to do that outrage the people who send them there and pay their salaries.

The rest of the CD is composed of solid Merle. Nothing else has the eloquence or sinew of "Me and Crippled Soldiers" but every song warrants a few listens.

"Me and crippled soldiers" is one of Merle's best songs--ever! "Under the bridge" dovetails with that song. Merle cares about people who are scorned and mocked for not being politically correct or "hip. He cares for people who are silently pushed to the outskirts of society by folks who fatuously proclaim their "compassion" or the need for "diversity"--Merle sings about the real left outs of society and no one has ever done it better. Get this album!!

Blue Jungle is another excellent Hag CD. It didn't get much notice when it was released other than President Bush's attempt to use "Me and Crippled Soldiers" for his own political purposes. This is a great song whether you agree with its political message or not (don't ever assume you know what Hag's politics are though--he will surprise you).

The rest of the CD is solid as well. "Sometimes I Dream" is one of Hags best ballads--subtle and introspecive. "My Home is in the Street" is the other standout song. "Never No Mo Blues" is a Jimmie Rodgers classic--Hag paying tribute as always. "Driftwood" and "A Bar in Bakersfield" can be found elsewhere, but they round out the CD well.

I've been listning to Merle Haggare for a long time now and he never ceases to amaze me with his writing skills.
The song sometimes I dream is a prime example of this.
I also have Merle Haggards 20 Greatest Hits and on there you will see another example of his talent with,Always Wanting You.

This album has one of the greatest songs ever written "Me and Crippled Soldiers" is one of the most enlightening songs I have ever heard.