The Irish are great storytellers and producer Charles Lane wisely allows his speakers to tell their tales of the Troubles with little intervention. From a man watching his brother die during the 1981 Hunger Strikes to the childhood memories of a man and woman on opposite sides of the conflict, this piece builds in momentum to make a compelling if disturbing portrait of ordinary people in unsettling times.

More than a peg to the 25th anniversary of the Hunger Strikes, the power here lies in its subtle parallels to the conflict in Iraq. Even if only mentioned briefly at the beginning and end, it resonates throughout the whole program - especially in the smallest of details, often supported with haunting Irish music.

Unbeatable as a serious meditation on St. Patrick's Day! If you desire a somewhat lighter touch, Lane also has a more musical offering in Songs of the Troubles. But the real voices should be heard any day another car bomb explodes in a street market, or another child's father is shot on the streets of his own city, or another conflict befalls another generation in another country.

Note: I listened to the full-hour version but there is also a newshole version, as well as promos and even a 3 minute demo for busy PD's - it shouldn't take any longer than that to decide to air this piece for your listeners.