COME HELL OR HIGH WATER

For the tragic aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, the author blames the racism of the wealthy, whites, Republicans, and the cronyism of George W. Bush. He documents all his claims with ample evidence and abundant quotations. Andrew Barnes's slow pace and African-American intonation fit the message and the milieu. He does award-winning imitations of New Orleans Mayor Ray Nagin and hip-hop singer Kanye West. His impeccable diction and avuncular manner turn somewhat repetitive rhetoric into a listenable lesson more pleasant than a paper version. Barnes's deep voice makes car speakers shake off their dust and earbuds tickle the ears. Short recordings of Katrina's angry survivors separate the chapters. J.A.H. © AudioFile 2007, Portland, Maine [Published: AUG/ SEP 07]