BLUES CITY A Walk in Oakland

U.C. Berkeley professor and longtime Oakland resident Ishmael Reed takes listeners on a colorful walking tour of his hometown, studying and celebrating the history, politics, culture, and vibrancy of this often overlooked and scorned city. In this year-long, journal-style essay, Reed delivers people from all walks of life, as well as ruminations on the soaring architecture, unique cultural events, marginalizing political maneuvering, and pivotal historical milestones that have put Oakland on the map. Reed relays his experiences himself, starting out stiffly, but warming to his topic quickly. Interspersed with his narration is a beautiful jazz score that succeeds in creating a rich ambiance. H.L.S.
(c) AudioFile 2004, Portland, Maine [Published: APR/MAY 04]