Cabbage Alley was The Meters' fourth album, released in 1972, and marked their transition to Reprise Records. The title refers to a street in the Tremé neighborhood of New Orleans. Recorded at Sea-Saint Studios, the album showed an evolution towards a more polished sound. Reception was positive among critics, though sales were moderate.
The sound of Cabbage Alley is smoother and more melodic than earlier works, with influences of soul and R&B. Songs like 'Cabbage Alley' and 'Do the Dirt' stand out for their infectious grooves. Toussaint's production gave it a cleaner finish while maintaining the band's funk essence.
Cabbage Alley is seen as a transitional album that paved the way for the later success of Rejuvenation. Its legacy lies in showcasing The Meters' versatility. Today it is appreciated by collectors as a lesser-known gem in their catalog.