BEYOND THE GRAVE

Radio theater at its spookiest, these 11 ghost stories are from popular '40s-era U.S. programs, starring the likes of Peter Lorre, Charles Boyer, Susan Hayward, and William Conrad. Despite their age and genre, these tales compare favorably with today's television fare. By and large, they're no more (or less) corny, in far better taste, and, because everything depends on dialogue, considerably better written. Today's audio dramatists, who like to throw everything but the kitchen sink into their soundscapes, could learn from these simple, direct production values. This selection is particularly fine. Like all Radio Spirits releases, the old recordings have been restored with loving care. An accompanying illustrated booklet gives some nice-to-know background information. Y.R. © AudioFile 2006, Portland, Maine [Published: APR/ MAY 06]