Wise and Otherwise

Originally released in 2002 on the Northern Blues label, Wise and Otherwise is not only one of Harry Manx's best albums, it is one of the best blues discs in recent years. Fans of the Mohan Veena, Manx's signature instrument, will be particularly charmed with this offering. The exotic instrument is the center of the traditional song ''Death Have Mercy,'' as well as the perennial favorite ballad ''Coat Of Mail.'' Wise and Otherwise also features Harry's unique version of ''The Thrill is Gone,'' where Manx successfully combines the classic blues track with a traditional Indian raga.