THE MANNISH BOYS "BIG PLANS" Source: Music City Blues.org Date: 05/2007 Writer: Don Crow

The Mannish Boys are the nearest thing to a blues "supergroup" on the contemporary scene today.  Comprised of gents who have had success collectively as well as individually, "Big Plans" further solidifies their status as a band that can allow input from all its various members and never miss a beat.

The Mannish Boys consist of a core of bluesmen that includes Finis Tasby, Kid Ramos, Frank Goldwasser, Johnny Dyer, Kirk Fletcher, Leon Blue, Randy Chortkoff, Tom Leavey and Richard Innes.  Although well-versed in the West Coast style of "jump blues," these guys handle various styles of blues on this set, sure to please the palates of all blues fans.

In the tradition of a true all-star lineup, several guys get a chance to show their vocal chops.  Johnny Dyer channels the spirits of Muddy and Jimmy Rogers on "Just To Be With You" and "Broken Hearted Blues."  Paris Slim Goldwasser conjures up some Delta voodoo on the slide-driven "I Can't Stay Here."  Finis Tasby gets things rolling with a rollicking "Border Town Blues," featuring cool guitar from Kirk Fletcher.  Randy Chortkoff takes a turn at vocals and harp on the funky original, "Mine All Mine." 

And, it wouldn't be a Mannish Boys album without some guest stars, too.  Bobby Jones, a blues shouter from the heyday of postwar Chicago, lends gritty, soulful vocals to "Mary Jane" and "California Blues."  Another legend from "back in the day" makes two fine appearances.  Jody Williams, long the guitarist for Howlin' Wolf, trots out one of his originals, "Groan My Blues away," as well as a song written for him by Randy Chortkoff, the slow-and-bluesy "Young And Tender."  Jody's rich baritone and fiery guitar licks really round out this set.

Many thanks to Frank Roszak at Delta Groove Records for making this one available to us.  The Mannish Boys have certainly kept up their winning ways with this one, and the only thing left to do is to make "Big Plans" to see these guys at the 2008 Blues Awards!!   Until next time.....Sheryl and Don Crow.