Bluegrass purists will declare this is not a bluegrass project regardless of the title. And that assessment may not be too farfetched. Despite the use of the standard bluegrass instrumentation (and a harmonica thrown in for good measure) the term "acoustic country" might be a more apt description. Merle Haggard is among the greatest of country performers and has a voice that speaks to the soul – he’s a favorite of many. Although we do get a few of Merle’s hits - Big City, Holding Things Together and Momma’s Prayers - there are five brand new offerings here. Learning to Live With Myself is particularly compelling and Pray delivers a strong message as well.  BMP