GUNSMOKE Return to Dodge

Before he was TV’s Cannon or the larger partner in “Jake and the Fatman”—even before he narrated the adventures of Rocky and Bullwinkle—William Conrad was one of America’s most prolific and accomplished radio actors. From 1952 to 1961, his performances as Matt Dillon on “Gunsmoke” helped make it the best dramatic radio series of its day. The 20 half-hour episodes in this compilation exemplify not just his, but all the show’s excellences—superb supporting players (especially Parley Baer as Chester), insightful writing, intricate and convincing sound effects, and the realistic atmosphere. Violence in the Marshall’s Dodge City wasn’t exciting or glamorous, but a fact of life that had to be endured and overcome. The set comes with an informative illustrated booklet. Y.R. Winner of AudioFile Earphones Award © AudioFile 2007, Portland, Maine [Published: APR/ MAY 07]