Dr. John's Mercernary CD (2006) is a dynamic reinterpretation of the classic American songbook, infused with a distinct New Orleans flavor. Recorded at Piety Street Studios in New Orleans and mixed in New York City, this album blends soul jazz, smooth jazz, and cool jazz textures to create a uniquely vibrant listening experience.
The album offers a rich tapestry of remastered standards reimagined through Dr. John's idiosyncratic style. With a track list that includes evocative titles such as "Blues in the Night," "You Must Have Been a Beautiful Baby," "Moon River," and the playfully titled "I Ain't No Johnny Mercer," the record serves both as a tribute to the legendary American lyricist and a personal statement by Dr. John (Mac Rebennack). His masterful piano syncopation and unmistakable vocal rasp transform these standards into soulful, swinging interpretations that pay homage to the classic tunes in a refreshingly contemporary way.