CHANGE OF SEASONS A Memoir

John Oates, the renowned rock singer and composer, and author Chris Epting collaborate on both the synthesis of Oates's journals for this memoir and on the audiobook narration. While the book is not about the rock act known as Hall & Oates, the creative collaboration and strong friendship of the pair is artfully explored. Language is cogent and precise and, at times, lyrical. Sadly, only the introduction and conclusion allow the listener to hear the dulcet baritone of Oates himself. Epting performs the bulk of the audiobook in a workmanlike fashion with some inappropriate pauses and other weaknesses of a first-time narrator. While Epting's timbre seems grating for the long haul, listeners will be absorbed by the life of John Oates, whom one could view as a privileged and self-possessed artiste. W.A.G. © AudioFile 2017, Portland, Maine [Published: MAY 2017]