The Sundown Chaser

Ken Marks's use of Western cadences perfectly fits Richards's old-style horse opera, set in Montana. After losing them 15 years earlier, Thurman Baker is looking for his two grown sons, Travis and Herschel, in hopes of settling down with them in Texas. Thurman used to be a horse thief in Mexico, and Herschel is now a sheriff, so their meeting is somewhat strained and poignant. Marks gives each of the many male characters a distinctive voice appropriate to his age. Through changes in vocal intensity and tone, Marks creates realistic emotions in the characters and enables listeners to experience their tension, fear, and guilt. Well-written and well-read, this combination works well. S.C.A. (c) AudioFile 2009, Portland, Maine