Piece Comment

Review of Seekers of the Truth: The Veterans' Sangha


A fascinating idea: brief first person essays from all walks of American life touched by the Vietnam War. They are read by the authors at a Buddhist retreat with each piece ending with a single chime from a bell: very effective. Some of the writing is outstanding and the readings are all honest and heartfelt. It is, of course, timely in the context of the mire in Iraq. "Litany 911" and "Soldier's Demons" are particularly compelling.
So why only three stars?

The sound quality is abominable! The levels are low, there is no treble and a background hiss is present through the whole thing. I listened to all the pieces and, while I was moved by the words, I also felt annoyed that technical laziness has taken much away from something that could have been great. PD's should audition the sound quality before programming.