THE MANNISH BOYS "LIVE & IN DEMAND" Source: Washington Blues Society (WBS) Date: 12/2006 Writer: Malcolm Kennedy

For the 2005 Summer Tour The Mannish Boys were Finis Tasby-vocals, Johnny Dyer-vocals, harmonica; Randy Chortkoff-vocals, harmonica; Kid Ramos-guitar, Frank Goldwasser-guitar, Leon Blue-piano, vocals; Tom Leavey-bass and Richard Innes-drums.

This was recorded at the 19th Annual Winthrop Rhythm & Blues Festival July 17th, 2005. For those of you lucky/smart enough to have been there you already know what a great set they played so you should already be on your way to your favorite record store. If you missed it then with this disc at least you have a chance to hear this top-notch band in peak form. If you are familiar with The Mannish Boys you already know that they are the real deal old school Chicago blues. If you close your eyes while listening to “Howling Wolf” you can see an image of Muddy in his suit and pompadour belting it out. The musicians are all tight, the soloing is not excessive or self-indulgent the singing is heartfelt. If I were to be told that a lost master from the 1970 Newport Festival turned up or something my only comment would be “man they sure got an excellent recording”. This is a hot one and should be on your, I can not live another day without this CD, list.