CRANK CALLS

This delightful compilation of answering machine messages left for Jonathan Winters's friend and colleague, J. B. Smith, is a necessity for die-hard Winters fans. In this Grammy winner for Best Comedy Recording Winters's improvisational skills shine. He deftly tackles such subjects as politics, plumbing, Porsches and passing on--each in 60 seconds! Listeners are treated to Winters's spirited wit, as well as his humorous views of real-life stresses: aging, holidays, the frustration of not being able to reach the person you're calling. Ever! Winters's laughing voice orders Smith to "pull the chain on your head and flush your mind." With its sheer silliness, that's just what this recording does for us. R.A.P. ©AudioFile, Portland, Maine [Published: JAN 97]