OUT OF CONTROL

Alan Zimmerman reads this story about survival on America's mean streets with a steady, almost nonchalant, evocation. However, his breathy voice, with its lack of bass tonal range, doesn't suit the material well. Also detracting from the enjoyment of this production is a lack of attention to sound levels; Zimmerman's whispers sometimes require an increase in volume; then what follows is too loud. This may bring a new meaning to the title, especially if heard on a Walkman; the effect is not so pronounced if heard on a home stereo. J.L. © AudioFile 2001, Portland, Maine [Published: JUN/JUL 01]