PRX hates The Sound of Young America

Posted by Maximum Fun on 31st May 2006

PRX is the Public Radio Exchange, a sort of online content depot for public radio producers. Independent producers upload their content — programs, news reports, features — to the site, and stations visit to license pieces to fill holes in their programs or schedules.

Part of the system is a sort of peer-review mechanism. PRX has an “Editorial Board,” and at least one of them reviews nearly every piece uploaded to the site. Additionally, any PRX member (anyone can sign up for free) can write a review of any piece.

It’s a great system… two of The Sound’s affiliates found out about the show through PRX, and lots of people in public radio get to hear the show that otherwise might not.

Unfortunately, PRX HATES THE SOUND OF YOUNG AMERICA.

A sample review (from an editorial board member who works for Radio Netherlands):

The guests, Jonathan Goldstein and Jonathan Katz are typically public radio. But stylistically our host is all slick baritone Clear Channel morning zoo. Without being intentionally offensive, how old is the program host? He sounds like someone older trying to be young. He looks young in the picture.

Or this one (from an editorial board member from Atlantic Public Media), which included a rating of one out of five:

It’s just a little jarring to have jokes come out of nowhere and not a natural part of the conversation. The humor has that disruptive effect from the back of the classroom….

So, uhm, if you get the chance, head over there, sign up (it’s free), and write a thoughtful review of a show.