BURIED ONIONS

Unrelentingly bleak, Eddie's life in the barrio of Fresno, California, unfolds through the revelation of one grim truth after another in the flawless narration of Robert Ramirez. After high school graduation, Eddie leaves his “cholos” behind, choosing vocational school over the gang. But the murder of his cousin Jesus and the ensuing grief and hopelessness steer him off the path. Ramirez captures Eddie’s quiet acceptance of his life. His delivery of Eddie's subtle yearning, the taunting of Jesus's best friend, and the gruff Anglo friendliness of Mr. Stiles, who hires Eddie to do yardwork for him, brings Eddie's desolate life into focus. While there's no hope to be found here, this recording is rich with the authenticity of despair. T.B. © AudioFile 2001, Portland, Maine [Published: AUG/ SEP 01]