DEAD-END DRIFT

In a program by New York gonzo producer David Rapkin, author L'Amour reminisces on one side, and Richard Crenna acts out a story on the other. We say "acts out" because what he does is too rich to be called reading or narrating. He inhabits the tale, becomes the characters. His performance is slightly flawed by poor mastering, but the power is all there nonetheless. That this actor, best known for his roles in "Our Miss Brooks," "The Real McCoys" and Rambo films, is one of Hollywood's best has been an open secret for fifty years. Rapkin (who, by the way, did not master this) sparingly adds sonic reinforcement where it will do the most good. Y.R. ©AudioFile, Portland, Maine [Published: AUG/SEP 98]