PRX Review: ANDY STATMAN’S JOURNEY

Andy Statman’s Journey (27:47)

producer: Jonathan Groubert

Review by Jon Kalish for PRX (January 22, 2007)

“5 Stars if you’re a fan of Klezmer clarinet or bluegrass mandolin. Jon Kalish has produced an expertly knitted, rich, tersely woven and well presented journey into the heart of the virtuoso musician and Jewish mystic Andy Statman.

This is excellent radio that hits all the right beats in terms of pacing and uses the form to create a three dimensional person from his early success to his inexplicable contemporary obscurity.

Highly recommended to anyone. Excellent programming for the weekends or Jewish holidays or pairing with programs on Klezmer.”

Listen to the program here

PRX Review: SAY IT PLAIN

Say it Plain

Producer: American Public Media, (60:00)

review by John Hingsbergen for PRX (Jan 27, 2007)

“This is an excellently-crafted and moving documentary, ideal for Black History Month. Characteristic of the American Radio Works series, this is a highly-polished production filled with compelling content that demonstrates the power of long-form radio. 

NPR’s Michelle Norris hosts this program featuring excerpts from eloquent speakers such as comedian Dick Gregory, the Rev. Dr. Marting Luther King, Jr, Fannie Lou Hamer of the Mississippi Freedom Democratic Party and Representative Shirley Chisholm. 

I was especially interested in the 1895 recording of educator and presidential advisor Booker T. Washington. 

Whether your listeners lived through events documented in this show, or have merely read about them in history books, they’ll be informed and inspired by the actual voices of these speakers 

I’ve scheduled it for use on WMUB for the second year in a row during Black History Month. I can offer no higher endorsement.”

Listen to the program here