Brief Summary
In this episode of The Sirens of Audio, the hosts, Dwayne and Phillip, along with Kenny, discuss recent Big Finish audio releases featuring the Fourth Doctor, Tom Baker, focusing on the "Solo" series. They explore the "Blood of the Time Lords" and "The Ravencliff Witch," examining the themes, characters, and overall impact of these stories. The discussion includes the portrayal of Time Lords, the concept of a companionless Doctor, and the performances of the cast, with a special emphasis on the sound design and artwork. They also share listening recommendations.
- The hosts discuss the Fourth Doctor's "Solo" series, highlighting "Blood of the Time Lords" and "The Ravencliff Witch."
- They examine the portrayal of Time Lords and the concept of a companionless Doctor.
- The episode includes discussions on cast performances, sound design, and artwork, along with listening recommendations.
Intro
CJ Miller introduces the episode of The Sirens of Audio, followed by a humorous exchange involving Cyber Lieutenant and Cyber Leader. The segment concludes with Cyber Leader receiving an award for best conversion.
Rabbit Hole - The Deadly Assasion and TV Time Lords
The hosts discuss the TV series, specifically focusing on "The Deadly Assassin" and its impact on Doctor Who lore. Dwayne expresses his disagreement with the common perception that "The Deadly Assassin" significantly altered established lore. Phillip notes similarities in the portrayal of Time Lords but highlights the introduction of the Matrix and Roger Murray-Leach's set designs as new elements. Kenny adds that the story humanizes the Time Lords, portraying them as fallible and politically motivated. The hosts then discuss the Time Lords' diminishing returns in subsequent TV stories and express a preference for Earth-based, human-centered narratives. They also touch on the Gallifrey audio series, praising its character-driven political dramas. Dwayne appreciates the richness "The Deadly Assassin" brought to Gallifrey, including interesting personalities like Councilor Goth and Borusa. The discussion covers the multiple regenerations of Borusa and the hosts' mixed feelings about Gallifrey's repeated destruction and revival in the series.
Blood of the Time Lords Review
The hosts review "Blood of the Time Lords," a Fourth Doctor audio adventure. Kenny appreciates the setting on one of Gallifrey's moons and the expansion of Time Lord lore. He praises the characters, continuity nods, and sound design, particularly the cohorts with wooden masks. Phillip compares the story's atmosphere to the Hinchcliffe era and highlights the shocking cliffhanger in the first episode. He commends the casting and distinctiveness of the voices. Dwayne notes the story's resemblance to "The Name of the Rose" and appreciates the unusual character names. The hosts discuss James Dreyfus's portrayal of the Master, noting its cold, detached nature and the clever reveal of his disguise. They praise Timothy X Atack's writing and Nicholas Briggs's direction, as well as Jamie Robertson's sound design and music.
How do we feel about a companionless Doctor?
The hosts discuss the concept of a companionless Doctor, inspired by Tom Baker's desire to work solo after Elisabeth Sladen's departure. Kenny enjoys seeing the Doctor through other people's eyes and the opportunity for new dynamic relationships. He believes the format works well for audio, allowing for monologues and internal reflections. Phillip acknowledges the warmth that companions bring to the series, citing examples like Charlie, Lucy, and Evelyn. He notes the changing nature of television and the historical need for multiple companions.
The Ravencliff Witch Review
The hosts review "The Ravencliff Witch," a Fourth Doctor audio adventure. Kenny appreciates the classic Doctor Who setting of an isolated village on the coast with a new power station. He praises the larger-than-life characters and the blend of supernatural elements with scientific explanations. Phillip notes the story's mishmash of typical Doctor Who locations and characters, which works effectively. He highlights the over-the-top villain and the more subtle performances of Emma Knowles and Dele Segun. The hosts discuss Neris Hughes's role and Trevor Cooper's voice, as well as Richard Earl's portrayal of Gordon Miles. They commend Ryan Aplin's artwork and Jonathan Barnes's sound design. The discussion includes Margaret's character and her upcoming role as a companion, with mixed feelings about the choice but anticipation for the dynamic with Leela.
The Nine
The hosts briefly discuss the upcoming box set called "The Nine," which will feature the Fourth Doctor facing off against the character of the Nine, played by John Heffernan.
Listening recommendations and Outro
Phillip recommends the podcast "42 to Doomsday," praising its amusing conversations and Australian perspective. Dwayne recommends a BBC Radio 4 documentary on Mary Whitehouse called "Disgusted." Kenny recommends "The Doctor Who Show" from fellow Tibetans, highlighting its fun format and thought-provoking themes. The hosts thank Kenny for joining them and announce that their next episode will feature an interview with new series actor Simon Fisher Becker. They provide contact details and encourage listeners to share their thoughts on audio drama.
