“Trap Street” – The Fable & Folly Network – podcast review

If my podcasting critic career doesn’t skyrocket I always secretly fancied being a cartographer. If anything it sounded kinda cool. Don’t worry, I’ve not lost the plot – there is a link between that statement and my latest review.

With “Trap Street” part of the Fable & Folly Network, we follow Josh (VO Michael P. Greco), a 27-year-old underachiever who receives an unusual glowing email attachment containing a picture of a stunning redheaded lady, along with a mysterious map of somewhere called Ocean Bay. Josh’s character is tragically hopeless, lacking a job, has zero love life, and is equally poor at swiping right. As my readers know I have an affinity with underdog characters. Whether it’s the cliche substance abuse, failed marriage types, or in Josh’s case far from a social magician – his struggles are relatable.

Behind every flawed lead character, a best pal is rooting for a better life for our protagonist. Enter my favorite dry martini character, Richard (VO Dale Inghram), adding awesome satire and comedic undercurrents to the mix. If there’s a season two, and if there’s ever a scene in need of say a similarly sarcastic British cousin VO, just give me a shout!

It may not have been intentional, but there are a lot of links running through this podcast — the course of life, navigating love’s twists and turns, and of course, the map itself. This could ‘of course’ just be the old romantic within me.
From my POV, although each episode of this show runs a brisk 20 minutes, the plotline development can feel a tad slow. When we arrive at Ocean Bay, it seems to be a sleepy local town with little happening, which might contribute to the pace. Again, speculation on my part.

The tone and humor within the show are right up my sarcastic alley, with the intermission of Batman surfer music sounding ace! I absolutely adored the interview scene where Josh reels off the best new-age buzzwords I’ve heard in ages — goals, five-year plans. It sounded like a hilarious and easily relatable scene in the show!

Not that I look at podcasting charts when writing a review, but “Trap Street” is currently enjoying the dizzying heights of the number one sci-fi slot on both sides of the pond. That’s quite an achievement – kudos gentlemen.
I also especially liked the news radio “Strange Air” bulletin – great Easter egg touch guys it’s all about those little details.

So, if you’re after an audio drama with a great blend of wit and treasure hunt vibes, “Trap Street” will be right up your alley. Or perhaps I should say Street…

And remember guys, maps have secrets.
Cheers, Kev!

Podcast submissions – tinthesahara@gmail.com
“Trap Street” scores – 7/10

Previous reviews

• “Trap Street” – The Fable & Folly Network – podcast review
• Episode 4: Interview with Jeff Schmidt – Ominios Thrill
• We’re Alive: Scouts Honour – podcast review
• Episode 3: Conversation with Kris Kaiyala – the mastermind behind Dirt
• Ominous Thrill – Jeff Schmidt Productions – podcast review

Starring

This audio drama was written and directed by Tony Martinez.
It was produced by Michael P. Greco and Tony Martinez.
Trap Street has a diverse cast of over forty experienced actors based in Los Angeles, Chicago, Atlanta, and Nashville.

Michael P. Greco as Josh Mayfield.
Lindsay Elston as MC Henderson.

Featuring:
Dale Inghram as Richard.
Rena-Marie Villano as Maddie Smith.
Samantha Turret as Kathy with a K.
Nan McNamara as Mom.
Rene Mujica as Dad.
Verona Blue as Athena.
You can find more information at – www.trapstreetpodcast.com/cast