Album: Dear Folks Sorry I Haven't Written Lately

Introduction
" Dear Folks Sorry I Haven't Written Lately" is a 1973 album by the famous American singer, author, and actor, Roger Miller. The album, released by Columbia Records, includes 11 tracks that showcase Miller's distinct combination of country, folk, and pop music. Featuring a mix of original tunes and covers, the album is a testament to Miller's musical flexibility and his capitivating storytelling prowess.

Background and Recording
By the time "Dear Folks Sorry I Haven't Written Lately" was released, Roger Miller had currently attained considerable success as an artist with hit tunes like "King of the Road", "Dang Me", and "England Swings". He had also won several Grammy Awards, strengthening his position as a popular figure in the c and w scene. This album came during a duration where Miller's career had plateaued, with fewer chart-topping hits compared to his earlier years. However, Miller stayed a reputable figure in the music market and continued to try out various styles and sounds in this album.

The recording of "Dear Folks Sorry I Haven't Written Lately" happened from 1972 to 1973. Miller collaborated with various songwriters and artists during the recording process, with some tunes featuring vocal consistencies reminiscent of the early 1970s country-rock sound.

Track Listing and Music Styles
The album includes 11 tracks with a mix of original tunes composed by Miller and covers of other artists' compositions. Some of the notable tracks from the album consist of:

1. "The Moon is High (And So Am I)" - This up-tempo song, composed by Miller, showcases his hallmark wit and humor. The lyrics mention a man who is in love and experiencing a "high" due to his romantic sensations.

2. "That's the Way It's Always Been" - A philosophical tune that explores life's unpredictabilities, Miller's contemplative lyrics are accompanied by an affecting melody.

3. "Meanwhile, Back in Abilene" - A melancholic narrative about a male who wishes for his enthusiast, this track showcases Miller's storytelling abilities.

4. "Guv'ment" - This uptempo track was initially included in the American musical play "Big River," based on Mark Twain's novel "The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn". In this song, Miller voices his ridicule for corrupt government authorities.

5. "Under Your Spell Again" - A timeless country cover initially by Buck Owens, the song's appealing tune and wholehearted lyrics make it the best car for Miller's emotive singing.

6. "A Trip to the Moon" - Another quirky and playful tune, Miller thrills the listener with an enjoyable story about a journey to the moon.

The rest of the songs on the album consists of "Ain't That the Way Love Goes", "Do You Wan na Go to Heaven", "If There's a Heaven", "Kansas City Star", and "Interrupted Melody". Each track reflects Miller's skill in blending nation and pop music, developing an unique noise that remains interesting and unforgettable to listeners.

Tradition and Impact
Though "Dear Folks Sorry I Haven't Written Lately" did not achieve the same level of business success as Roger Miller's earlier albums, it stays an essential piece in his discography. The album demonstrates his continued expedition of various music styles and his undeviating dedication to communicating real feelings and stories through his tunes. The album functions as a suggestion of Miller's tremendous skill and a precursor to his later work, including his contribution as a composer and performer for the Tony Award-winning musical "Big River". Although often ignored, "Dear Folks Sorry I Haven't Written Lately" is a gem waiting to be found by fans of Roger Miller and country music alike.