IDIOTS UNPLUGGED

In these collected segments from conservative Glenn Beck's radio program, a stereotypical Idiot character makes a statement and is then rebuffed with what Beck presents as facts. More comedic than his previous works, the pieces aired live, and there’s little in the way of audible post-production. Beck exudes confidence in every syllable, and his supporting cast is lively and agreeably over-the-top. In particular, Pat Gray plays the whiny Idiot to the hilt, supporting his arguments with screeching ad hominem. Only the theme tune strikes a false note; while humorous and catchy, it’s included before and after every single segment. It quickly becomes tiresome. There are no subject headings, so navigation without a track list can be tricky. A.Z.W. © AudioFile 2010, Portland, Maine [Published: APRIL 2010]