Album Review: The World That Couldn’t Be by Clifford D. Simak
Released in 2010 under the label LibriVox, The World That Couldn’t Be is an audiobook that dives into a world of speculative wonder, narrated with a charm only Clifford D. Simak could conjure up. Though categorized as “non-music,” this release captivates listeners through its storytelling and immersive style, making it more than just another audiobook. It’s an auditory journey—one that sticks with you long after the final chapter fades.
What makes this production stand out isn’t just the source material but also how it’s brought to life by the team behind it. Gregg Margarite plays a central role here, wearing multiple hats as coordinator, reader, and even meta-cataloger. His narration brings warmth and personality to Simak’s words, while Annise’s cover design gives the project a cohesive visual identity. The result? An album (if we can call it that) that feels thoughtfully crafted from start to finish.
Now, let’s talk tracks—or rather, chapters. While all six chapters have their moments, two particularly stand out. First off, there’s Chapter 1, where Margarite sets the stage for what feels like a classic Simak tale: mysterious landscapes, quirky characters, and a sense of something… off. You know right away you’re in for a ride. Margarite’s pacing is spot-on; he doesn’t rush, giving the listener time to absorb every detail without dragging things out too much. By the end of Chapter 1, I was hooked—not because of any big twist but because of how naturally the story unfolds.
Then there’s Chapter 5, which really ramps things up. Without spoiling anything, this part hits harder than expected. It’s one of those sections where everything starts clicking together—the weirdness introduced earlier suddenly makes sense, or at least begins to. Margarite nails the tone here, balancing tension with curiosity. Listening to him read these lines, you almost forget you’re not hearing music—it’s got rhythm, flow, and emotional weight, kinda like your favorite song does when it gets stuck in your head.
One thing worth mentioning is how polished yet personal this feels. Sure, it’s technically “non-music,” but don’t let that fool ya—it’s got soul. And honestly, isn’t that what good art’s supposed to do? Whether it’s a symphony or someone reading a story aloud, it should leave you feeling something. This audiobook does exactly that.
Reflecting on The World That Couldn’t Be, it strikes me how timeless Simak’s work remains. Even though the book itself predates the digital age, its themes still resonate today. Plus, listening to Margarite bring it to life adds another layer of relevance. Honestly, who would’ve thought an old sci-fi novel turned audiobook could feel so fresh?
In conclusion, if you’re looking for something different—something that blurs the line between literature and performance—give this one a shot. Just don’t blame me if you find yourself daydreaming about alien worlds during your commute.
