OH, PLAY THAT THING

Henry Smart, an ex-hit man who has fled Dublin, discovers that he can find trouble in New York and Chicago as easily as back home. He also finds sexual adventure and lots of good music--even becoming a friend and confidante of Louis Armstrong--in this Depression-era novel. Christian Conn gives Henry a lovely Irish lilt, which may explain why almost every woman that Henry meets is captivated by him. Conn also excels with the rest of the cast--from barmen and gangsters to women and late-night musicians, including Satchmo. Conn's Armstrong impersonation isn't perfect, but it's certainly a plausible voice for the great trumpet player. His pacing and delivery are also excellent and capture the listener's attention throughout. R.E.K. © AudioFile 2005, Portland, Maine [Published: APR/MAY 05]