Manhattan Egos

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Manhattan Egos is a free jazz album by saxophonist Sonny Simmons. It was originally released in 1969 by Arhoolie Records. The studio tracks were recorded on February 10, 1969, at Sierra Sound Studios in Berkeley, California. In 2000, Arhoolie released a CD edition that adds four live tracks recorded on November 6, 1970, at the Newman Center in Berkeley.

Studio lineup:
- Sonny Simmons (alto sax)
- Barbara Donald (trumpet)
- Juma Sultan (bass and percussion)
- Paul Smith (drums)
- Voodoo Bembe (congas)

Live quartet on the added tracks:
- Sonny Simmons
- Michael White (violin)
- Kenny Jenkins (bass)
- Eddie Marshall (drums)

Length and credits:
- Total length: 1:18:42
- Track "Divine Magnet" was composed by Michael White; the remaining tracks are by Sonny Simmons
- Producer: Sonny Simmons and Chris Strachwitz
- Label: Arhoolie Records ST 8003 / CD 483
- In Simmons’ chronology, it follows Music from the Spheres (1968) and precedes Rumasuma (1970)

Reception highlights:
- Critics praised the album’s energy and interplay. AllMusic notes the strong frontline of Simmons and Donald; Penguin Guide calls it a defining document of its time with powerful Simmons solos; JazzTimes praises the lasting impact and effective original writing; All About Jazz sees the performances as peak form and a strong entry into Simmons’ early career; others highlight the envelope-pushing energy and the near-telepathic connection between Donald and Simmons.