Muddy Waters, the undisputed king of Chicago blues, hit a string of highly successful albums in the late 70's. In between 'Hard Again' and 'King Bee' came in 1978 'I'm Ready', a powerful blues record containing new material and classic reworks. Driving blues burners such as Willie Dixon's 'I'm Ready' and 'Rock Me' are varied by slow jams like '33 Years', 'Hoochie Coochie Man' and 'Screamin' And Cryin'. Muddy is clearly feeling alright with these song selections. As on 'Hard Again', Johnny Winter is taking care of the production duties, allowing 'I'm Ready' to be a spontaneous outburst of pure bluesyness, with a lively feel.